Ensuring Future Crop Production in the Eastern Nile Countries: A Water and Land Perspective

In a recent study published in Science of The Total Environment, Saher Ayyad and Muhammad Khalifa explore the sustainability of crop production in the Eastern Nile Basin countries (ENC) – Egypt, Sudan, and Ethiopia – up to 2050. With agriculture in these nations significantly impacting water and land resources, the research aims to provide insights into potential agricultural development pathways for securing food production in the face of population growth.

Key Insights

• Scenario-based Analysis: The study employs a scenario-based approach, considering four development pathways to evaluate crop production sustainability by 2050. While one pathway reflects a continuation of current practices (extensification), three others propose intensified agricultural practices aimed at optimizing water use efficiency and land productivity.
• Water Use Efficiency: By analyzing remote sensing data and agricultural statistics, the research assesses spatio-temporal variability in cropland performance, including water footprint (WFP) and yield. The findings highlight the potential for substantial water and land savings through intensified, efficient agricultural practices.
• Cooperation and Benefit-sharing: The study emphasizes the importance of regional cooperation and benefit-sharing among the ENC countries to address future challenges in meeting crop demand. Collaboration in adopting sustainable agricultural practices can contribute to water and food security in the region.

Implications

• Resource Management: Adopting intensified agricultural practices can lead to significant water and land savings, crucial for sustainable natural resource management. Efficient water use and land productivity are essential for meeting future food demand while minimizing environmental impact.
• Regional Cooperation: Promoting cooperation and benefit-sharing among ENC countries is imperative for addressing shared challenges related to water and food security. A collaborative approach can enhance resilience and ensure equitable access to resources.