Researchers at UCD are combating food insecurity and promoting sustainability in Mozambique through a new infrastructure project, SYNERGI (Socially Inclusive Edible Urban Green Infrastructure).
The project represents a major achievement for the researchers involved, and aims to strengthen academic ties between researchers in both jurisdictions.
The Irish Embassy to Mozambique stated on Twitter that: “The programme aims to promote exchange between @uemmoz [The Eduardo Mondlane University] and @ucddublin [University College Dublin] in the areas of agriculture and climate resilience in vulnerable communities in the provinces of Maputo and Nampula.” UCD Research News and Farmers Review Africa have both reported that the project aimed to assist low-income households and vulnerable social groups in promoting food security while coping with the challenges posed by climate change.
David Kearns, a Digital Journalist and Media Officer at UCD University Relations, reports that: “Researchers at University College Dublin are combating food security in vulnerable communities in African cities with a new pilot programme encouraging urban beekeeping and community gardens.” Dr Chrstine Bonnin of UCD Geography was quoted by the UCD Twitter account to have stated: “Diverse urban agriculture can help cities address the twin challenges of food security and climate change by providing a sustainable food supply [...] as well as offering various ecosystem services.” Local civil society organisations, in addition to the Irish Research Council and Irish Aid, are also reportedly participating in this partnership.