Agriculture and Water Management

Approximately 70% of the world's freshwater resources are utilized by the agriculture sector. However, the efficiency of water use in many countries lags, falling below 50% according to FAO statistics. With the global population projected to reach 9.1 billion by 2050, the imperative for efficient water management in agriculture increases. This calls for innovative strategies and sustainable practices to ensure that the available water resources are used efficiently to meet the growing food demand without depleting the resources for future generations. 

As GOPA AFC, we recognize that agriculture is a very water-intensive industry and a large contributor to water pollution. Sustainable water management in agriculture is paramount, as it directly impacts crop yields, the ecological footprint and sustainability of agriculture, and thus food security. We believe that is critical to satisfying growing food demands amidst the challenges of diminishing land and water resources. One of the ways we are addressing this is through our involvement in the Nile Delta Water Management Programme (NDWM) / Consultancy services in Irrigated Agriculture. This project funded by GIZ, is being implemented in Egypt from November 2022 to October 2024. Our goal is to make a substantial difference in water management practices, ensuring sustainable agriculture for future generations. 

Our involvement in the technical assistance to SONADER project, aimed at improving food security by increasing irrigation in the Guidimakha and Gorgol wilayas, exemplifies our commitment to this cause. This project, funded by AFD, is being implemented in Mauritania starting from December 2023. Through comprehensive services, the projects strive to improve internal systems, water and infrastructure management, and ensure sustainable and relevant advisory services, fostering a more resilient and productive agricultural landscape in Mauritania. 

We are also pleased that MetaMeta, a renowned Dutch consultancy, is part of GOPA AFC since 2024. Based in Wageningen, the Netherlands, MetaMeta is a thought leader in many dimensions of water, agriculture, environment, and green infrastructure. Its service offering combines research, innovation, policy development and programme implementation. With more than 20 years of international water and climate expertise MetaMeta is complementing GOPA AFC's global experience in agriculture and financial sector development. 

GOPA AFC believes that improvements in agricultural water management can be achieved through modifications in crop management techniques, the use of advanced crop types, and the creation of financial structures that incentivize the adoption of best practices and innovative technologies. We remain committed to promoting these sustainable strategies and technologies to ensure the future of efficient water management.