Resolution on Semi-Arid Food Grain Research and Development (SAFGRAD) JP.31

CM/Res. 667(XXXI)

RESOLUTION ON SEMI-ARID FOOD GRAIN RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT (SAFGRAD) JP.31

The Council of Ministers of the Organization of African Unity, meeting in its Thirty-First Ordinary Session in Khartoum, Democratic Republic of the Sudan, from 7 to 18 July 1978,

Having noted with appreciation the excellent work of the African agronomists and other scientists in preparing this important project requested by the Council of Ministers in one of its resolutions in Mauritius,

Realizing the present unhappy state of food production in Africa despite the abundant natural resources available in most OAU States for expansion of food production:

1. WELCOMES the proposal on the Grain Research and Development project JP.31 to increase research on Maize, Sorghum, Millet, Cowpeas, Groundnuts and other grain legumes;

2. REAFFIRMS the need for active cooperation on this project with the UN Secretariat by all UN and other donor agencies;

3. CALLS ON all UN and other donor agencies to assist the project on:

1. Post harvest storage and preservation;

2. Seed multiplication and distribution;

3. Farm implement and animal traction;

4. On-farm testing programmes;

5. Germ-Plasm collection;

6. Processing, preservation and conservation of grain products at the secondary industrial level for human consumption.

4. APPEALS to all OAU Member States to establish at their earliest convenience grain and other food crop boards to ensure regular supply of food and increase the income of farmers;