By Obiabin Onukwugha
The Climate Africa Media Initiative Center (CAMIC), an environmental advocacy body is seeking collaborative efforts from governments, non-governmental organizations, and well meaning bodies to carry out campaigns aimed at mitigating climate change and food crisis in the continent.
CAMIC, a non-governmental organization (NGO) said it is committed to addressing critical environmental challenges, including soil contamination, which continues to jeopardize agricultural productivity, food security, and public health across Africa.
In a statement released by the body on Thursday, it intends to roll out a continent-wide campaigns focused on the importance of soil conservation.
The body also noted that soil contamination in Africa stems from a variety of sources, including industrial waste, improper pesticide usage, and waste disposal practices, all of which contribute to degraded land and environmental hazards.
The statement signed by its Chief Growth Officer, Pius Alabi, suggested methodologies aimed at curbing soil contamination across the continent.
The suggested methodologies includes promotion of organic farming practices, bioremediation techniques, community-based waste management programs, improved legislation and policy advocacy, awareness campaigns and educational programs, and technological innovation for soil monitoring.
“CAMIC is spearheading local waste management campaigns in both urban and rural areas to reduce the improper disposal of industrial and household waste. Through education and collaboration with local governments and industries, these programs aim to encourage sustainable waste disposal practices, especially targeting pollutants that contribute to soil degradation.
“To ensure long-term results, CAMIC is actively engaging with African governments to advocate for stricter regulations on the disposal of hazardous waste and the use of harmful chemicals in agriculture. In addition, CAMIC seeks to empower local communities by promoting the enforcement of existing environmental laws to protect soil resources.
“CAMIC is rolling out continent-wide campaigns focused on the importance of soil conservation. These campaigns will be aimed at farmers, policymakers, and young people, highlighting sustainable practices and the risks associated with soil contamination.
“CAMIC recognizes that combatting soil contamination is a collaborative effort. We invite governments, NGOs, community leaders, and the private sector to join us in adopting and promoting these methodologies to safeguard Africa’s soil resources for future generations.
“ By implementing sustainable practices today, we can ensure that Africa’s rich agricultural heritage is preserved and that the continent can continue to feed its people and fuel its economies in a healthy, sustainable way,” the statement read.