Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso – 17 February 2016. HE David G. BALA, outgoing Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to Burkina Faso, pays a farewell visit to AU SAFGRAD Office. He used the opportunity of the visit to highlight the crucial role of Agriculture in Africa, hence African Union SAFGRAD programmes.

Description: Description: C:\Users\Youssoupha\Pictures\UA SAFGRAD\Ambassador Nigeria\Gift.jpg

Group Photo at the end the farewell ceremony

HE David G. Bala (in the left), in company with Dr. A. ELMEKASS, posing with the gift offered by AU SAFGRAD Staff Association

HE David G. BALA, outgoing Ambassador of Nigeria to Burkina Faso, with two of his officers, were received at AU SAFGRAD Office by the Coordinator, Dr Ahmed ELMEKASS, and the staff. The reception was to bid farewell to His Excellency in recognition of the roles played in promoting regional integration driven by sustained agricultural development.

In his welcome address, AU SAFGRAD Head of Mission congratulated the Nigerian diplomat for successfully completing his tenure in Burkina Faso and for the exemplary roles played in regional integration and development. “Although I am not a part of Burkina Faso Government, but as an African, I appreciate your achievements here in Burkina Faso, our host country” added Dr. Ahmed ELMEKASS. Finally, the Coordinator briefed the visitors on AU SAFGRAD programmes and activities, notably the recent projects on opportunities and challenges of Strategic Agricultural Commodities value chain development in the sahelo-saharian zones in Africa. AU SAFGRAD Head of mission concluded by wishing HE David G. BALA a successful continuation of his career.

In his response, The Ambassador noted the key role of AU as a unifying entity to promote peace and prosperity in African Continent. He particularly identified with the activities of AU SAFGRAD in promoting livelihood resilience in Africa semi-arid zones through Agriculture development. He pointed out that increased and sustained agricultural production holds the key to economic development in Africa. This is against the backdrop of falling prices of mineral resources particularly crude oil.

A gift of locally made bronze statue and light refreshment were provided by the staff Association of AU SAFGRAD to the Ambassador.

Contact for further details: Mr. Youssoupha MBENGUE, Information and Outreach Officer, AU SAFGRAD, Email: Mbenguey@africa-union.org , Tel: +226 78234178, +226 25311598, Ext. 7312

For further information contact

Directorate of Information and Communication | African Union Commission I E-mail: dic@african-union.org I Web Site: www.au.int I Addis Ababa | Ethiopia

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