Agricultural water management innovations to build resilient food systems in West Africa

Agriculture, the largest user of water globally, is the engine of food security and an important source of employment across West Africa. As competition for water intensifies, food systems must become more sustainable and resilient, meeting the nutritional needs of growing populations without undermining the natural resource base on which they depend. In addition, changing demographics and gender roles require new solutions that are inclusive of women and meet the needs of young farmers, who are leaving rural areas affected by climate variability in search of opportunities outside of agriculture.