[Astana, Kazakhstan] – On February 7, 2024, a virtual bilateral meeting took place between H.E. Amb. Askar Mussinov, Director General of the Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS), and H.E. Colonel Mahaman ELHADJI OUSMANE, Minister of Agriculture and Livestock of the Republic of Niger. The meeting focused on fostering cooperation to address agricultural and food security challenges in Niger.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to advancing food security agendas and identified key areas of cooperation. The Secretary General of Niger's Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock presented the Ministry's current plans and priorities, emphasizing crucial areas for agricultural development and food security. The IOFS expressed strong support for these initiatives and agreed to provide assistance and support.
The collaboration involves Nigerien experts participating in various IOFS-led capacity-building events throughout 2024. These events include a Regional Conference on Rice Value Chain Development for African Member States and the establishment of the OIC Food Security Reserves Steering Committee. Additional regional training sessions on food loss, waste management, and controlling transboundary animal diseases are also in the pipeline.
This partnership underscores the shared dedication of the IOFS and Niger to tackle food security challenges, promote sustainable agricultural practices, and enhance the well-being of the Nigerien population.
A significant outcome of the meeting was the nomination of senior officials from both sides to oversee and ensure the effective implementation of the agreed programs. This step demonstrates a concrete commitment to the partnership.
