Africa-Press – Eritrea. World Soil Productivity Day was observed in Halhale at the national level on 5 November under the theme “Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities.” The event was attended by heads of the Ministry of Agriculture, representatives of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, and representatives of agricultural experts from the Ministry of Agriculture and the regions.
Mr. Tsegay Berhane, Head of the National Agricultural Research, noting that soil is facing increasing danger due to climate change, soil degradation, pollution, and human activities, said that once soil vanishes it takes centuries to restore it. He also called for an expansion of public awareness and understanding.
Ms. Ariella Glinni, Representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization in Eritrea, indicated that the pressure on soil and water in Eritrea due to urban expansion, land use, and climate change is considerable, and called for sustainable awareness-raising efforts to enhance public understanding.
At the event, research papers were presented by experts focusing on the role of compost fertilizer in soil health, the significance of soil and water conservation in boosting agricultural productivity, the influence of agricultural chemicals on soil health, and other related topics. The participants, for their part, conducted extensive discussions on the research papers presented.
Short videos related to World Soil Productivity Day, as well as demonstrations on soil and compost fertilizer, were also presented at the event.
