World Bank: Smarter Water Systems to Create 245M Jobs

According to a new report titled "Nourish to Flourish" released by the World Bank Group, smarter management of water resources in global food systems could generate approximately 245 million long-term jobs in Sub-Saharan Africa by 2050. The report highlights that current agricultural water management practices are inadequate to meet future food demands for a projected global population of 10 billion.

It advocates for rebalancing water allocation, implementing smarter crop placement, and developing stronger trade systems to significantly increase food production while protecting ecosystems and improving economic resilience. Paschal Donohoe, Managing Director and Chief Knowledge Officer of the World Bank Group, emphasizes the importance of effective policies and investment in irrigation systems.

Guangzh Chen, Vice President of the World Bank Group, notes the necessity of aligning global evidence with country realities to balance food production needs against water and climate challenges. The report calls for mobilizing private sector participation and increasing annual agribusiness financing to $9 billion by 2030.