AIESEC Hosts Seminar on African Food Innovations for Sustainable Urban Agriculture: "Grow Food, Save Money"

By AFỌLÁBÍ E. Simisólá

 

AIESEC hosted a seminar titled "Grow Food, Save Money" on July 13 at INCiTiS Lab, opposite Access Bank, Aquaculture Department. The program commenced at 2:30 PM. The event successfully gathered experts and enthusiasts to discuss critical topics, ranging from circular urban food systems to aquaponics and hydroponics technologies.

The seminar's core mission was underscored by INCiTiS-Food, an initiative aimed at improving the circularity of African city food systems. Dr. Oyediran Oyebola delivered a keynote address on the relevance and practice of circular urban food systems. He emphasized the importance of integrating agricultural solutions into urban settings to enhance food security and nutrition.

Following this, Dr. Ajiboye discussed the processes of collection, incubation, feeding, and hatchery of Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae, highlighting their role in sustainable urban agriculture. Josephine Adebayo led the session on the design and construction of aquaponics and hydroponics facilities. She clarified the distinction between the two systems, noting that hydroponics operates without the inclusion of fish, unlike aquaponics.

At around 4:40 PM, Dr. Omoniyi led a session on practical examples of how to grow different plants. The seminar concluded with a Q&A session at 5:40 PM, Dr. Oyebola invited those interested in the INCiTiS initiative to join, fostering a community dedicated to revolutionizing urban food systems across Africa.

Oluwanufemi Alabi delivered the vote of thanks, officially ending the event at approximately 5:47 PM.