In the heart of Ebonyi State, Nigeria, a silent shift is reshaping the livelihoods of agribusiness households, as lead mining encroaches on traditional farming practices. A recent study published in the *Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development Studies* sheds light on the profound impact of this mineral extraction on food security and economic diversification, offering critical insights for policymakers and the agricultural sector.
The research, led by Daniel Chinedu Nwaogu of the Department of Agribusiness and Management at Alex Ekwueme Federal University, reveals a stark transformation in the income sources of agribusiness households in Ikwo Local Government Area. Over the past decade, the proportion of households relying on mining as their primary income source has surged from a mere 7% to a staggering 93%. This dramatic shift raises alarming questions about the future of food security in the region.
Using the Foster-Greer-Thorbecke (FGT) model, the study assessed food security levels among 60 agribusiness households. The findings are concerning: 63% of respondents were classified as food insecure. “The transition from agriculture to mining has disrupted traditional food production systems,” Nwaogu explains. “This shift not only threatens immediate food security but also undermines the long-term resilience of these communities.”
The study identified several key factors influencing food security. Positively, own food production, education level, and livelihood diversification emerged as critical determinants. However, age, household size, and losses due to mining negatively impacted food security outcomes. “It’s a complex interplay of factors,” Nwaogu notes. “While mining brings economic opportunities, it also introduces significant risks to the agricultural sector, which has historically been the backbone of these communities.”
The research also explored the drivers behind livelihood diversification. Farm size, education level, cooperative membership, losses from lead mining, climate change, and low agricultural yield all positively influenced the decision to diversify income sources. Conversely, the age of farmers and income from farming negatively affected this diversification. “This suggests that younger, more educated farmers are more likely to adapt to changing circumstances,” Nwaogu observes. “However, older farmers, who may have more experience but less flexibility, are at a higher risk of being left behind.”
The commercial implications for the agriculture sector are profound. The encroachment of mining activities on agricultural land and water resources poses a significant threat to food production. “Policymakers must enforce stricter environmental regulations to mitigate these adverse effects,” Nwaogu urges. “Integrated approaches that balance mining activities with sustainable agricultural practices are essential for ensuring long-term food security and community resilience.”
As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and resource depletion, this study serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between economic development and environmental sustainability. For the agricultural sector, the findings underscore the need for innovative solutions that can coexist with mining activities without compromising food security.
In the words of Nwaogu, “The future of agribusiness in Ikwo and similar regions hinges on our ability to adapt and innovate. By fostering sustainable practices and supporting livelihood diversification, we can build a more resilient and food-secure future for all.”