Africa Sets enterprising Course to end Food Imports, Achieve Sovereignty
ADDIS ABABA – A renewed focus on land management, infrastructure growth, and technological integration is poised to reshape Africa’s agricultural landscape, aiming to end reliance on food imports and establish continental food sovereignty.The initiative, gaining momentum amongst policymakers and agricultural experts, addresses critical issues of land fragmentation, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to data-driven insights.
Currently, farmland across the continent is often scattered into small, unproductive plots, hindering large-scale agricultural efficiency. Proponents of the new approach advocate for the establishment of protected agricultural zones – even within forested areas – to facilitate large-scale, mechanised, and cooperative farming models.
Infrastructure is identified as a core priority, encompassing roads, railways, irrigation, storage facilities, and digital networks. Successful market linkages, both domestically and internationally, are seen as vital to transitioning farmers from subsistence farming to enduring economic success. Negotiations with external investors will prioritize technology transfer, skills development, and the creation of African-led innovation ecosystems, shifting the focus from financial aid to capacity building.
The plan also emphasizes leveraging data and artificial intelligence to empower farmers. AI systems tailored to local languages will translate complex data on climate risks, soil health, and yield predictions into actionable insights. Accessible digital advisory support, comparable to mobile phone penetration, is envisioned. Furthermore, proactive investment in scientific systems and community resilience is crucial for adapting to and mitigating climate change impacts.
A fundamental shift in policy viewpoint is called for, viewing land as a source of food and opportunity, prioritizing community well-being and long-term development over short-term extraction. The ultimate goal is to establish food security as the bedrock of sustainable progress, enabling Africa to confidently engage on the global stage.
