Paradigm Communications, IFDC join forces to promote Sustainable Rural Development in Africa

Paradigm Communications and the International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to promote sustainable rural development in African communities.

The initiative, known as the Promoting African Rural Economy, Livelihood Income Generation, and Sustainable Development through Responsible Reporting (PARELSDRR) Project, seeks to galvanize African media outlets and newsrooms to set an agenda for increased public expenditure spending and investment in favor of the rural economy of African communities.

Speaking to newsmen in Jalingo, Taraba State, Nigeria, the Publisher and CEO of Paradigm Communications, Mr. Raymond Nyayiti Enoch, explained that the project targets several African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Angola, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Malawi, Kenya, Ethiopia, Senegal, and Ivory Coast. The project aims to address the infrastructural neglect and lack of financing that has left African rural communities vulnerable to crises and affected them more than urban centers.

Enoch stated that Paradigm Communications and IFDC have agreed to collaborate to develop projects that would impact African rural economy, execute and implement strategic resources mobilization, and provide technical support to African communities. The project will run from 2023 to 2026.

According to Enoch, The rural economy and food demand are likely to continue to be under pressure from population growth, urbanization, rising income, and climate change. Therefore, promoting sustainable rural development that benefits African communities, particularly women, youth, and the underserved, is necessary.

The PARELSDRR Project seeks to ensure that African Heads of State and Government, intergovernmental institutions, and development partners in Africa commit to bettering the lives of African communities. With country coordination points (CCPs) made up of media organizations already set up in target countries, the project is expected to leverage the power of the media to set an agenda for increased investment in African rural communities.