Empowering Food Security Through Technology: A Critical Conversation in the Wake of Global Concerns
During the recent 16th ISACA Abuja Annual Conference, Nwachinemere Emeka, CEO of Kitovu Technology Company, delivered a thought-provoking presentation titled “Leveraging Technology for a Sustainable Food System: The Place of Professionals.” In his talk, Emeka emphasized a critical point: âNations must take full ownership of their seed systems.â This declaration, while focused on food security, has broader implications that resonate with global concernsâparticularly considering Bill Gatesâ recent visit to Nigeria and the rising narrative around the alleged depopulation agenda targeting Africa by global elites.
Food Sovereignty and the Need for Local Control
Emeka’s presentation highlighted a pressing issue in Nigeria: despite its immense agricultural potential, the nation remains a net importer of food, with over 26% of the population projected to face hunger in 2024â. One of the main solutions proposed was empowering smallholder farmers with the technology and data needed to make informed decisions, thus improving yield and reducing post-harvest losses. However, Emeka’s call for “ownership of seed systems” speaks to a larger issue of sovereigntyâhow can African nations ensure that their agricultural practices are aligned with their needs, rather than dictated by external forces?
This point fits together with Gates’ recent visit, which focused on improving agriculture and healthcare in Africa. While many welcome his philanthropic efforts, there has been a growing undercurrent of scepticism, particularly regarding the influence of global elites on African food systems. Rumours and concerns have swirled about whether GMOs, vaccines, and other interventions are part of a covert depopulation agenda.
Is Technology the Solution or a Tool for Control?
Emekaâs assertion that ânations must take full ownershipâ raises an important question: Is technology a solution to Africaâs food insecurity, or could it also be a tool for external control if not managed locally? Many critics argue that reliance on foreign technologiesâwhether in agriculture or healthcareâmakes African nations vulnerable to external interests. For instance, the introduction of genetically modified seeds by multinational corporations has sparked debates on whether such innovations truly benefit African farmers or whether they create dependency on foreign seed systems.
Emekaâs vision for Kitovu Technology Company is to reverse this trend by equipping African farmers with the tools to make their own informed decisions. By creating Farmers Service Centers (FSCs) and providing advisory services, Kitovu seeks to decentralize control and put power back in the hands of local farmersâ. This grassroots approach is a model for how technology can be harnessed for good, but only when controlled by the communities it serves.
Global Elites and the African Food System: Fact or Fiction?
The rumours surrounding Gates and other global elites reflect a deeper anxiety within African communities. While no credible evidence supports the notion of a deliberate depopulation agenda, the scepticism stems from a long history of foreign interference in African resources. This is why Emekaâs call for ownership of seed systems is so crucial. The ability to control what gets planted and how food is produced is not just a matter of economicsâitâs about autonomy.
As we reflect on these concerns, the question remains: How can African nations embrace technological advancements without compromising their sovereignty? Emekaâs presentation provides one pathway forwardâby building local technological hubs and encouraging innovation from within. Kitovuâs model shows that solutions do not have to come from abroad; African professionals are more than capable of addressing the continentâs challenges.
As Africa continues to navigate its path toward sustainable development, the importance of local ownershipâboth of technology and natural resourcesâcannot be overstated. The debate surrounding global influence and food security is far from over, but one thing is clear: Africaâs future must be shaped by Africans, for Africans.
Are we ready to take full ownership of our food systems, or will we continue to rely on external forces to drive our agricultural future?
