Category: Features

Key Highlights from Day 2 of the Africa Fertilizer and Soil Health Summit  

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On the second day of the summit, AGRA, through her thought leaders, participated in various side events as panellists and some gave keynote addresses on an array of topics reflecting our commitment to sustainably grow Africa’s Food Systems.

Addressing Farmers Needs for Fertilizer: Cost Quality and Effectiveness

The session titled,“Addressing Farmers Needs for Fertilizer: Cost Quality and Effectiveness” featured Prof Jean Jacques Muhinda, East and Southern Africa Regional Director for AGRA both as a keynote speaker and a panellist.

Throughout the discussion, various speakers shed light on the pressing issues surrounding fertiliser accessibility and utilisation in Africa.

It was established that many African countries have fallen short of the Abuja targets for fertiliser consumption, despite a growing demand for it- African consumption of inorganic fertilisers represents 3% of the world.

Notably, 90% of the fertiliser used in Sub-Saharan Africa is imported, underlining the region’s reliance on external sources for fertilisers.

Speakers also delved into the intricacies of fertiliser use efficiency, stressing the importance of factors like soil organic matter and pH levels in optimising its effectiveness. Innovative solutions, including digital technologies and tailored fertiliser blends, were explored as means to enhance efficiency and improve crop yields sustainably.

Furthermore, the session underscored the holistic nature of agricultural sustainability, emphasising that fertiliser alone cannot ensure desired outcomes. Addressing underlying soil issues, such as acidity and carbon levels, emerged as a priority for achieving long-term agricultural resilience.

Demystifying Soil Health in Africa

In this discussion, the key message was that if “we improve soil health we can improve water management in Africa since water is a very key component in farming.” The necessity of realistic measures for improving soil health in Africa became apparent. Fertilizer management has evolved as an important component in increasing agricultural output, highlighting the requirement for essential nutrients to promote crop cultivation. Understanding the current state of the soil is critical for effective farming methods.

The various panellists present, from KALRO,ICRAF and APNI agreed on  the significance of soil health and noted the need for a comprehensive understanding of Africa’s unique soil conditions, including issues such as salinity and terrain type.

AGRA’s Dr. Tilahun Amede, reflecting on the collective obstacles faced, put emphasis on the considerable challenges posed by limited government resources, particularly in fertilizer manufacturing, compounded by a lack of information for effective soil regeneration.

We need to understand local soil conditions to maximise soil and fertilizer efficiency. Bridging the “last-mile gap” is vital, which necessitates specific solutions that address the accessibility and price problems of farmers in various regions. By tackling these multiple difficulties and employing specialized measures, Africa can make great progress toward improving soil health and assuring sustainable agriculture practices.

Organics is How…?

The “Organics is How” event, moderated by Assan Ng’ombe, explored the current state of organic fertilizers in Africa. It was agreed that we are beginning to move beyond policy discussions to address practical challenges and opportunities.

In the session, a pertinent question arose; what is the investment readiness for organics and how do we leverage its potential to bolster soil health and crop yields?

It was evident there is a clear demand for organic fertilisers, particularly in Africa, especially considering the high prices of inorganic fertilisers render them unaffordable for small-scale farmers.

However, it arose that for the widespread adoption of organic fertilisers in agriculture, collaborative action-informed decision-making and a supportive regulatory environment are needed. It is essential for farmers to recognize the importance of organic fertilisers to achieve their yield targets. This can only be achieved if we work with governments and policymakers to ensure that we have enough organic fertilisers and that knowledge is disseminated to the farmer.

By addressing knowledge gaps, enhancing investment readiness, and diversifying supply sources, we can unlock the full potential of organic fertilisers to sustainably nourish our soils and improve food security.

Soil Matters: Cultivating Change for Africa’s Food SystemsTransformation through Evidence-based Policy and Practice

The discussion was centred on a central message, that healthy soils are the bedrock of Africa’s agricultural potential. But unlocking this potential requires a multi-pronged approach, and the panellists shed light on key areas for action.
The importance of integrating and scaling up funding systems to enhance market access in Africa’s agriculture sector led this discussion. The conversation acknowledged that present finance mechanisms are constrained, and blending various funding sources with fresh approaches is critical in bridging the gap and connecting resources to market prospects.  This ensures long-term financial stability for soil health efforts.

Another key point was that partners and scientists need to collaborate because while science provides best practices, it is the farmers who implement them.  Working collaboratively ensures that suggested soil health practices are both effective and practical for people who cultivate our food.

To close out the session, the panellists aired some very important calls to action: A shift in perspective, from “farm to table,” was proposed, urging a more holistic approach to agriculture. Another key takeaway was that if soil health is put central to all agricultural policies, then the climate, nature and pollution crises can be easily tackled.

Dr Asseta Diallo reminded those present that the cost of fertiliser production is still higher than the cost of action, and partnerships are needed to leverage each other, and support countries to domesticate the 10-year Action Plan going forward.

What Happened at Day 1 of The Africa Fertilizer and Soil Health Summit in Nairobi

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Opening Plenary

Day one of the Africa Fertilizer and Soil Health Summit (AFSHS) brought together over 4,000 stakeholders including key government officials, Regional Economic Blocs, private organizations and other key stakeholders to evaluate the state of Africa’s fertilizer use and soil health, while reviewing the progress made since the 2006 Abuja declaration, which aimed to boost fertilizer Growth.

It was established that despite multiple efforts, Africa falls short of the Abuja declaration targets. Fertilizer consumption in Africa has only risen from 8kg/ha to below 25 kg/ha since 2006, far below the 50kg/ha target.

Opening the event was  H.E. Amb. Joseffa Leonel Correia Sacko, AU commissioner for agriculture, rural development, blue economy and sustainable environment acknowledged that African soils have reached a tipping point with low levels of soil organic matter and nutrient stocks, limiting the potential benefits of inorganic fertilizer and plant genetic improvements for smallholder farmers. The Agenda on African soil Health is a matter of urgency and collaborative actions must be taken.

H.E. Dr. Musalia Mudavadi, Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs reiterated some of the key commitments and declarations by the Heads of State and Government to drive agricultural productivity to improve food and nutrition security.

Key among these commitments is the Maputo Declaration on Agriculture and Food Security in Africa, which was endorsed at the second ordinary Assembly of the African Union in July 2003 in Maputo. The Declaration contained several important decisions but prominent among them was the commitment to the allocation of at least 10 percent of National budgetary resources to agriculture and rural development policy implementation within five years.

AGRA’s  Partner Statement

Dr. Agnes Kalibata, President of AGRA, reaffirmed AGRA’s role in the Fertiliser and Soil Health Summit.

Highlighting the significance of fertiliser use, Dr. Kalibata pointed out countries that are making notable strides in agriculture through effective fertiliser utilisation. Drawing from studies conducted in Malawi and Ethiopia, she emphasised the correlation between soil composition and human nutrition. The presence of essential nutrients like zinc in the soil directly influences the nutritional value of produce, underlining the critical importance of soil health for overall nutrition.

Dr. Kalibata presented two key recommendations to address soil health challenges:

  1. She emphasised the importance of land tenure in soil health management, particularly for women and young farmers entering the agricultural sector.
  2. She advocated for subsidies that can be flexibly allocated by farmers based on their specific needs, thereby maximising their effectiveness.

Moreover, she underscored the necessity of investing in research capacity, especially in local communities, to shape the future of food systems effectively.

In her remarks, Dr. Kalibata emphasised the indispensable role of fertilisers in ensuring food security. While cautioning against improper fertiliser use, she called for unapologetic action to propel fertiliser utilisation forward, emphasising the need for a balanced approach to meet the world’s nutritional needs.

AGRA at The Africa Fertilizer and Soil Health Summit

Facilitating Countries’ Cross Learning Agenda: Post-Summit Actions following the Abuja Declaration.

Today’s events saw AGRA spearhead two significant side events: “Facilitating Countries’ Cross Learning Agenda: Post-Summit Action” and “Managing Degraded Soils for Reclaiming Livelihoods in Africa.”

During these sessions, Prof Jean Jacques Muhinda, Regional Manager at AGRA, highlighted the crucial need for mainstream decision-making to address the pressing issue of soil health. Drawing upon insights shared by ministers of agriculture from Rwanda, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Ghana, Prof Muhinda emphasised the importance of deliberate policy decisions to increase fertiliser usage, in alignment with CAADP and Malabo frameworks. He stressed that effective policy implementation and intentional decision-making are pivotal in the battle for soil health.

Additionally, the discussions shed light on the agricultural practices in France over the past 60 to 70 years. It was noted that despite using the same land, France has managed to feed three times its current population. This has been attributed to the strategic use of nitrogen and organic fertilizers in farming, underlining the transformative impact of innovative agricultural approaches on productivity and sustainability.

‘Dakar 2 High-Level Event on the State of Africa Fertilizer and Soil Health’

In a high-level discussion which featured Dr. Agnes Kalibata, the spotlight was on Africa’s critical issue of fertilizer and soil health. Shockingly, some African countries are losing up to 33 million tons of soil annually, painting a grim picture of the continent’s agricultural landscape.

Dr. Kalibata underscored the urgent need for Africa to become self-sufficient in revitalising its soil health, stressing the importance of research and studies to identify gaps and formulate effective strategies. She cited AGRA’s Sustainable Farming program as a case study, showcasing progress in soil regeneration across market countries through regenerative agriculture practices.

It was established that to create such a narrative of self-sufficiency, it is essential for the 10-year Action Plan to be effective, to enable other countries to confidently partner with Africa in improving its agricultural practices due to existing data and facts.

The plan’s success will provide essential data and facts, empowering African nations to forge partnerships with other countries for agricultural improvement.

Furthermore, Africa still struggles to attain the targets set out in the 2006 Abuja Declaration. To optimise soil health and achieve maximum yields, farmers require training on the judicious use of organic fertilisers.

Drawing lessons from initiatives like Dakar 1, it was highlighted that African leaders must mobilise resources to invest in domestic fertiliser production. The continent already boasts innovative solutions and incentives tailored to fertiliser production, signalling a shift away from conventional methods.

In essence, Africa stands at a crossroads in its agricultural journey, with soil health emerging as a paramount concern. With concerted efforts, strategic investments, and a unified narrative, the continent can embark on a transformative path towards sustainable agricultural practices, ensuring food security and prosperity for generations to come.

Towards Better Soil Health: Incentives for Youth Enterprise in Production and Distribution of Organic and Inorganic Fertiliser.

This youth-led and youth-centred discussion explored the pivotal role of the youth in shaping the future of farming and development.

Dr. Janet Ademe, Head of Rural Development Division at the African Union Commission, underscored this imperative, stating, “CAYAC stands committed to empowering the youth in sustainable farming and development. Investing in our youth is investing in the future of agriculture.”

This commitment to youth empowerment is echoed by Abednego Mavuthu Kiwia, Program Officer at AGRA, who emphasised the importance of advancing youth-led fertiliser businesses. Key priorities include exploring supply opportunities for both organic and inorganic fertilisers, strengthening delivery capacities of youth enterprises, engaging centres of excellence in training programs, mobilising resources, and advocating for supportive policy environments. These concerted efforts aim to not only empower young entrepreneurs but also foster sustainable agricultural practices, ensuring a resilient and prosperous agricultural sector.

However, realising the full potential of youth entrepreneurship in agriculture requires a multifaceted approach. As highlighted by Abednego, youth entrepreneurship thrives on finance, support, and capacity building, coupled with creativity and resilience from the young farmers themselves. It’s not merely about providing resources but also about equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in an ever-evolving industry.

Central to this approach is the notion of capacity building. By investing in the education and training of young farmers, we can equip them with the technical expertise needed to enhance soil health and adopt sustainable agricultural practices. This includes providing agricultural knowledge, imparting skills in production and fertilisation techniques, and fostering supportive policy frameworks that incentivize environmentally friendly farming practices.

Africa and the Americas seal partnership to restore soils, under an unprecedented bi-regional initiative led by AGRA and IICA

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San Jose, Costa Rica, 6 May 2024 (IICA) – AGRA and the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) jointly launched the biregional “Living Soils” initiative, which, based on its successful implementation in the Americas, will seek to restore degraded soils, rehabilitate acid soils, increase agricultural and landscape productivity and improve climate resilience in African agrifood systems.
 
Participating in the launch event were Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana and current Chair of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM); Rattan Lal, recipient of the 2020 World Food Prize; Manuel Otero, Director General of IICA; as well as ministers of Agriculture of several African countries, AGRA authorities, private sector representatives, and other senior agricultural officials of the Americas and Africa.

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Designed to improve rural well-being, productivity and food security while respecting environmental limits and making rational use of natural resources, Living Soils links science and public policies to rehabilitate and protect soils, whose degradation is threatening global food security.
 
Launched in 2020, Living Soils is spearheaded by IICA and Rattan Lal, the world’s leading authority on soil science and Director of the Carbon Management and Sequestration Center (C-MASC) at The Ohio State University.
 
At the launch event for the initiative in Africa, Lal, who is also an IICA Goodwill Ambassador for Sustainable Development Issues, called for driving and replicating what he described as “the miracle of the Brazilian Cerrado”, in reference to a unique biome that covers almost a quarter of Brazil’s land area and that is characterized by savanna vegetation and a wealth of flora and fauna.
 


To protect this territory, the South American country has enacted laws and established policies to regulate deforestation and foster sustainable agriculture practices related to the use and conservation of biodiversity.
 
“Africa possesses the natural resources required to create a miracle; Africa can become the next breadbasket of the world”, said Lal. “The strategy to achieve this should involve translating agronomic and soil management science into action, as well as developing policies that are pro-nature, pro-agriculture and pro-farmer, which is why this initiative is being launched in a timely manner”, he added.
 
In his presentation, the award-winning scientist added that, although African production systems are increasing their productivity, they are doing so at a slow pace. Therefore, he considered it necessary to take a big leap by fostering “knowledge and technology that is currently not being implemented, as well as improving the management of African soils, which are facing challenges such as degradation, primarily due to erosion, droughts, nutrient depletion, salinization, reduction of organic carbon in soils, urbanization and climate change”.
 
In the same vein, Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of Guyana and CARICOM, stated that the Living Soils program “has tremendous significance for Africa because it addresses key environmental challenges and will allow for implementing regenerative agriculture practices, enhancing biodiversity and soil health, improving food security and contributing to climate resilience”.
 
“Africa possesses 30% of the world’s mineral reserves, 8% of its natural gas, 40% of its gold and 90% of its chromium and platinum. It has the largest reserves of cobalt, diamonds and uranium, and great mineral, agricultural and environmental potential. Africa is home to 65% of the world’s uncultivated land and 10% of the earth’s renewable water resources. It has tremendous potential to assume a leading role in the global supply chain and position itself as a key player in feeding the world”, mentioned Ali.
 
The President of Guyana also highlighted IICA’s strong leadership in the initiative, which had allowed for promoting sustainable agrifood systems that can transform the lives of small-scale farmers and rural dwellers. “In this developing world in which we are working to build a resilient, viable and competitive food ecosystem, IICA is carrying out commendable work, and I would like to acknowledge this leadership”, he said.

Watch the Launch https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=URpqJ2H78dc
 
Priorities of the initiative
 
In Africa, Living Soils will receive support from AGRA and will prioritize 11 countries in three agroecological regions: the Guinea savanna zone, which includes Ghana, Nigeria, Mali and Burkina Faso; highlands in the Eastern region, which include Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda and Tanzania; and the Miombo woodlands, which include Malawi and Mozambique.
 
It will focus on leveraging South-South cooperation to foster climate-smart agriculture, restore degraded lands and increase productivity, thereby fostering resilience to the impacts of climate change by incorporating the requisite elements, such as inputs, bioinputs, technology, irrigation and climate-adapted crops.
 
To that end, the initiative will seek to replicate successful experiences and good practices implemented in the Americas, such as the 2020-2030 Brazilian Agricultural Plan for Climate Change Adaptation and Low Carbon Emissions (ABC Plan), as well as CARICOM’s vision to reduce the food import bill by 25% by 2025.
 
“Brazilian agriculture has played a fundamental role in fostering global food security through the implementation of innovative and sustainable technologies. Many of these technologies are the result of the establishment, 51 years ago, of EMBRAPA, which is the Brazilian agricultural technology company”, noted Roberto Perosa, Secretary of Trade and International Relations of the Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Supply.
 
“We used to be an importing country and now we are a major exporter. Many African nations face challenges similar to ours with respect to agriculture and soil preservation, so we strongly believe in the importance of international cooperation to jointly address and support one another in overcoming these challenges. Initiatives such as Living Soils of Africa afford valuable opportunities to share experiences with sustainable agricultural technologies that can help our partner countries in Africa to restore degraded soils and adapt agriculture to the effects of climate change”, remarked Perosa.
 
During the event—which was moderated by U.S. journalist and Agri-Pulse Communications Editor-in-Chief Philip Brasher— Eyasu Elias, Minister of State for Agriculture of Ethiopia; Yaw Frimpong Addo, Deputy Minister for Crops of Ghana; and Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, Senator and Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security of Nigeria, shared the challenges they face and discussed opportunities to adapt key innovations and policy instruments that could lead to sustainable agrifood systems with healthy soils suitable for production. They also agreed to strengthen collaboration and the sharing of experiences between the Americas and Africa.
 
“The sharing of experiences, capacity building and collaboration are the main ingredients we need to give visibility to and make this initiative a reality in Africa. We are grappling with a very serious food crisis and one of the challenges we face are the poor soils our farmers are working with. Thus, having this program is a win in terms of food security, an issue of importance not only to Nigeria, but the whole world”, remarked Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, highlighting the importance of South-South and triangular cooperation between nations.
 
“We face a number of challenges, but the most important one, which is also faced by other African countries, is soil erosion by water. This is due to topographic factors, but also to the high rate of deforestation, the loss of vegetation cover over the last few decades, the loss of nutrients and organic matter, the level of organic carbon in soils and their acidity”, explained Eyasu Elias, Minister of Agriculture of Ethiopia.
 
“In sub-Saharan Africa, we are suffering a great deal. The solution to the issue of soil health requires a multidisciplinary approach, synergies, the introduction of technologies, the mechanization of irrigation, and support to farmers with information and better credit opportunities. We want to help farmers become better prepared and trained to improve their soils”, stated Deputy Minister Yaw Frimpong Addo of Ghana.
 
The Director General of IICA, Manuel Otero, underscored the importance of the public and private sectors, research organizations, academia and civil society taking part in the initiative, in order to broaden its impact.
 
“Financial support is needed to help African and Latin American countries engage in this South-South cooperation. IICA is going to implement this initiative rapidly by allocating an initial USD 50,000 to support its first steps, but we must encourage other partners to join us and lend their support”, explained Otero.
 
Private sector support
 
Major food companies such as Bayer, Syngenta and PepsiCo are involved in the Living Soils of the Americas program. In that region, the program is currently underway in Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, El Salvador, Mexico, Peru and Uruguay, with the support of the corresponding ministries of Agriculture.
 
“This initiative with Africa is very important. In the Americas, we have been able to promote international cooperation and collaboration with the private sector, farmers and civil society to drive the adoption of soil management and regenerative agriculture practices. As a result, agricultural productivity has improved and impacts on the environment have been mitigated”, said Mildred Nadah Pita, Head of Global Healthcare Programs/Sustainability in Middle Africa at Bayer.
 
“This initiative is crucial. AGRA and IICA are committed to revitalizing our soils, which are the foundation of our agricultural system. This is a flagship initiative for South-South cooperation that goes beyond just agriculture. It works to build resilient and improved systems, because healthy soils will allow for improving productivity, crop quality, income for farmers and countries’ economic performance. Our planet’s future is dependent on soil health”, concluded Jean Jacques Muhinda, Regional Manager for East Africa at AGRA.

Also participating in the launch event for the Living Soils of Africa initiative were Tilahun Amede, Head of Resilience, Climate and Soil Fertility at AGRA; Zelia Menete, Director General of the Mozambique Institute of Agricultural Research; Manyewu Mutamba, Head of Agriculture at the African Union Development Agency; and Jorge Werthein, Special Advisor to the Director General of IICA.

Let us Partner to Increase Rice Production in Africa by 2030

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The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) reports that African rice consumption is projected to reach 34.9 million tonnes of milled rice by 2025. However, current African rice production cannot satisfy the consumer demand in quantity and quality, with the gap filled by imports, predominantly of Asian origin, to approximately USD 5.5 billion annually.

Today, rice is an integral meal for several middle to high income households. It is a major dietary energy source for West Africa and the second most important source of calories in Africa. 

In the 9-year span, amongst staple crops, rice consumption showed a significant increase of approximately 37%, comparatively higher than increases from other crops such as maize (20%), sorghum (21%) and cassava (32%). 

The Statista’s (2021) report on Africa’s rice importation indicates a 16.6 million metric tons of rice imported in 2021. AGRA’s 2021 report shows also shows that out of the 34 million tons of milled rice consumed annually in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), only 35% is produced locally. The remaining 65% of rice need is met through importing foreign rice from either USA, India, Thailand or Vietnam, with an import bill of US$ 35 billion annually. 

Africa has the potential to achieve internal food security and play a greater role in feeding the world. More productive land could create a food and agribusiness economy turn Africa from a net importer of food into a net exporter. 

How can this be achieved? 

The rice sector represents a pathway out of poverty in Africa, as rice availability and prices have become major determinants of the welfare of the poorest sections of African consumers. 

This means that we need to strengthen the local rice value chains to achieve better production, nutrition, a better environment, and a better life in the target countries and this is where public–private partnerships (PPP) come in play. 

AGRA, New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD), and Japan International Coalition Agency (JICA) saw the need to future proof the rice demand and this led to the Coalition of Africa Rice Development (CARD). CARD is a consultative Group comprising bilateral and multilateral donors as well as African and International Institutions that was established in 2008, with the aim of developing Africa’s rice sector and to promote a green revolution for Africa.   

Between 2008 and 2018, CARD focused on development and implementation of its National Rice Development Strategy (NRDS) and provision of a capacity development program for all value chain actors.

This led to: 

  1. CARD Member Countries formulated 218 projects from their rice strategies amounting to 9 billion USD. 
  2. CARD’s 28 million metric tons target was surpassed and by 2017, the yield was 30.1 million. 

The second phase began in 2019 and aims to increase rice production from 28M to 56M tonnes by 2030.  This phase also welcomed nine new member countries: Angola, Burundi, Chad, Congo Republic, Gabon, Guinea Bissau, Malawi, Niger and Sudan, and a new partner, WFP.

To achieve this, CARD’s approach is to: 

  • adopt the “RICE” approach- Resilience, Industrialization, competitiveness, and Empowerment.  
  • contribute to SDG 2: Zero hunger, SDG 8: Decent work and economic growth and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

CARD supports the member countries for preparing their National Rice Development Strategy (NRDS), through organizing a series of workshops called Working Week (WW), on average of three times in a year. 

To achieve impact, it is important to move quickly towards mobilizing the necessary support for implementation. Whilst we operate as an institution, there is an urgent need to develop mechanisms to increase the flow of financial resources for agricultural mechanization investments from commercial banks and other financial institutions, as emerging small- and medium-scale commercial farmers and entrepreneurs require access to loans. 

Another essential area is strengthening of the national, subregional, and regional institutional infrastructure supporting the development of agricultural mechanization. This must include research and innovation; standards and testing; manufacture and trade in agricultural machinery and implements; technology transfer and extension; and capacity building in all fields across the continent.

Agnès Kalibata Parmi les 100 Africains Les Plus Influents

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Agnès Kalibata scientifique agricole et décideuse politique rwandaise, et présidente de l’Alliance pour une révolution verte en Afrique (AGRA) a été reconnue comme faisant partie des 100 personnalités les plus influentes du continent.

Ministre de l’agriculture et des ressources animales de 2008 à 2014 dans son pays le Rwanda, elle a commencé son mandat en tant que Présidente de l’Alliance pour une révolution verte en Afrique (AGRA) en 2014.

Tout au long de son mandat, elle a encouragé l’utilisation d’approches agricoles fondées sur la science pour augmenter la production alimentaire et améliorer la sécurité alimentaire, en mettant l’accent sur les agriculteurs familiaux. Elle a mis en œuvre des politiques conçues pour connecter les agriculteurs avec leurs voisins et leurs clients, ainsi que des programmes d’agriculture coopérative et des programmes de partage de vaches qui ont permis aux familles de posséder plus facilement des vaches. Au cours des six années où elle a été ministre, le niveau de pauvreté du Rwanda a chuté de plus de 50%; le budget annuel de son secteur agricole est passé de moins de 10 millions de dollars américains à plus de 150 millions de dollars américains ; et le Rwanda est devenu le premier pays à signer un accord dans le cadre du Programme détaillé pour le développement de l’agriculture africaine (une initiative de la Commission de l’Union africaine).

Félicitations Docteur Agnès Kalibata et à toute l’équipe de AGRA!

Originally from https://askwebtv.com/actualites/agnes-matilda-kalibata-parmi-les-100-africains-les-plus-influents/

The Soil is the Boss, so I Protect it: Lucia’s Transformative Journey with Regenerative Agriculture

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Lucia Marimu, who hails from the Gatithiini village of Kenya’s Tharaka Nithi County, struggled to make a meaningful income from her farming enterprise to comfortably raise her son, Titus, and her ageing parents. 

Never employed, and losing her husband just as Titus was born in 1995 Lucia focused her energies on green-gram farming, but her venture consistently disappointed as she failed to make enough harvests each season to cater for her bills. 

She was handed a lifeline in 2021, when AGRA partnered with Farm Africa and the Cereal Growers Association to recruit and train Village Based Advisors (VBAs) in her region. The recruitment was part of the Strengthening Regenerative Agriculture in Kenya (STRAK), a project funded by the IKEA Foundation, and intended at driving economic transformation in arid regions amidst the devastating effects of climate change. 

Regenerative agriculture is an eco-friendly approach to food and farming that focuses on topsoil regeneration, biodiversity increase, water cycle improvement, and ecosystem services enhancement. It involves various sustainable techniques, such as recycling farm waste, adding external compost, and adopting practices like permaculture and no-till methods. This approach aims to increase resilience to climate change while promoting the health and vitality of farm soil.

In Lucia’s words, “the soil is the boss, so I protect it. I ensure it retains its fertility and it provides for me.”

In Tharaka Nithi County the STRAK project aims to reach over 20,000 smallholder farmers through VBAs, among them Lucia, who was trained on modern agricultural practices, including proper crop selection and cultivation for the best market outcomes and the best regenerative agriculture practices for soil recovery. 

For Lucia, her transition to a VBA was a change-point in her life, as in two short years, she had begun to witness the results of her work, including a thriving farm that has today allowed her to earn enough to educate her son through college, build a three-bedroom stone-walled house and equip it with sufficient water supply through the installation of a huge water tank. 

Titus, her son, having witnessed the transformation that agriculture can bring to a family, also moved back home after graduating, and is now keen on becoming a successful farmer.  

“I am very passionate about farming, but I didn’t know what to do until Farm Africa recruited me. I previously attend trainings, but my yields were minimal. After Farm Africa and AGRA training, my yields have improved immensely,” said Lucia.

“For example,” she adds, “I used to harvest three bags of green grams before I became a VBA, but today, I harvest seven from the same size of land.” 

Lucia, practices intercropping, planting pumpkins, bananas, sorghum and millet alongside her green grams. She also rears milk goats, chicken and cows.  

“This year, I started a kitchen garden to grow vegetables, onions and tomatoes for home consumption. I am now able to feed my small family,” she said.

She has also recruited over 200 smallholder farmers to date, many of whom have gone on to transform their lives in similar ways as her.

When we visited her, Lucia had baked a millet cake, a product that she regularly prepares for sale on market days. Some of the farmers she has trained and supported as a VBA also joined the meeting, where they gave unique testimonies of their transformation.

Urgent Action and Leadership Critical for Climate Wins

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Climate change stands as a threat to the foundations of our global food systems, unrivalled in its scope and impact. Today, soaring temperatures, shifting weather patterns, and extreme weather are adversely affecting our ability to feed ourselves, demanding urgent solutions. 

For many, the urgency is heightened as agriculture is the backbone of their economies. The escalating impacts of climate change are making it increasingly challenging for citizens to produce or afford healthy meals. With each passing year, farmers are finding it difficult to predict growing seasons, with erratic rainfall threatening crop yields and livestock productivity. The effects of climate change further extend to the oceans, where acidification and marine heatwaves are negatively affecting fish stocks. 

Such trends are worrisome for the world economies, and notably for Africa, which already needs to accelerate its food production to meet the needs of its growing population projected to double to two billion by 2050 and may reach four billion in 2100.  The pressure on the continent’s food systems necessitates producers to adapt their practices and technologies, addressing these challenges head-on, and increasing their output through more efficient and sustainable approaches.

However, it is this pressure that puts Africa at the centre of global climate action, with the continent’s leaders now seeing the economic opportunities that can emerge from climate action. Investments in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and clean technologies have the potential to drive economic growth, job creation, and innovation, and Africa stands poised to make early gains due to its strategic location and vast natural resources. 

The African Common Position from the 2021 UN Food Systems Summit, which was adopted within the Nairobi Declaration at the recent Africa Climate Summit, recognises such opportunities even as it compels the continent’s political leadership to take action on food systems, placing climate at the centre of its sustainable production practices. This commitment was further exemplified at the 2023 Africa Food Systems Forum in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania, where African leaders reiterated their commitment to regenerate, re-purpose and protect their regions against the devastating effects of climate change. In both forums, there was a commitment to addressing the soil acidity challenge through significant investments in cutting-edge technologies. This forward-thinking approach aimed to not only combat the immediate issue of soil acidity but also to proactively invest ahead of the curve in the emerging carbon opportunity. Moreover, leaders actively sought to expedite access to practical knowledge for farmers, recognizing the vital role of timely information in sustainable agriculture. 

This agenda has been elevated by the UAE to define conversations and decision-making at the 28th Climate Change Convention (COP28) later this month. The COP28 Presidential Action Agenda seeks to build on the progress and momentum of recent years with the UN Food Systems Summit, COP26 in the UK, and COP27 in Egypt, and emphasizes the need for all countries to better integrate their food systems and climate action to deliver for people and the planet. At the core of this agenda, the COP Presidency has put forward the leader-level Emirates Declaration on Sustainable Agriculture, Resilient Food Systems, and Climate Action, where all global leaders would voluntarily commit to incorporating food systems and agriculture into their climate planning and action by 2025. Expedited initiatives in these areas, encompassing production, consumption, processing, transport, storage, and tackling food loss and waste are all critical for accelerating global climate goals and ensuring the food security, resilience, and livelihoods of billions of people. Inclusivity also stands out as a key COP28 agenda item, with the participation of women, youth and indigenous communities required at all levels of decision-making. 

In the run-up to COP28, African countries are encouraged to lead the transformation from their unique contexts and draw inspiration from countries that have already made major strides including Norway and the UAE. Norway’s high electric vehicle adoption rates serve as a testament to the effectiveness of supportive leadership and political will in transformation. This is as the UAE demonstrates dedication to combating climate change by aligning its national goals with the Paris Agreement. Increasing its carbon reduction target to 40% by 2030, up from 31%, marks a substantial move towards sustainability.  

Innovative financing solutions are being explored to facilitate investments in priority climate actions, especially through the Green Climate Fund, aimed at securing essential resources for critical climate initiatives. However, we have fallen short on the second replenishment of the Fund, but there is still time to recover by honouring loss and damage pledges, adaptation finance pledges, and incentivizing private investments. 

Finally, it is important to restate that the success of the global climate agenda depends on leadership. The COP28 Presidency during the Pre-COP meetings in Abu Dhabi laid out its commitment to addressing the decarbonization challenge, openly addressing what many referred to as the ‘elephant in the room’.  We must be willing to have difficult conversations to move forward on important issues and work together to rise above climate change and secure a sustainable future for all.

Harnessing the momentum from COP28 and past commitments, we must now overcome the dilemma of choosing between climate action and development, enabling the simultaneous pursuit of both. We must also break the cycle of delays and dangerous procrastination. Urgency is critical as risks continue to escalate, leaving us with no time for disunity, and requiring us to prioritize collaboration over self-interest and defensiveness. The time for action is now; let us leverage the convening power of COP28 to turbocharge action and make a difference for future generations. Let’s move forward together on the “Clean Industrial Revolution” to secure the future of humanity and our planet.

Dr. Kalibata is President of AGRA, a member of the COP28 Advisory Committee, and served as Special Envoy for the 2021 Food Systems Summit

We need to do things differently in the fight to overcome Africa’s food insecurity challenges

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Dr Agnes Kalibata is urging world leaders to increase job-creating investments in Africa’s agricultural sector as the sure way to make the continent’s food systems sustainable.

She is worried Africa’s food security situation is in a challenging state currently, explaining; “two to three Africans live in the agricultural sector. In the food system. They get their livelihood in the food system, which is failing.”

“Two to three mothers are struggling to feed their children,” she added.

Speaking at a session on food systems transformation at the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Summit 2023 at the United Nations headquarters in New York, Dr. Kalibata urged international partners to do things differently.

The session sought to mobilise and expand commitments from UN member states to prioritise food systems transformation.

“The speed we are currently using means that if we don’t do things differently, in 2050, Africa will be the hungriest and the poorest continent. I don’t know whether Africa needs that or the rest of the world needs that,” she said.

“You all are spending so much money to keep people alive. We need to move from keeping people alive to creating jobs for people. And advancing development on the African continent. So that we can be an equal player,” she added.

Dr. Kalibata called for more action to promote intra-Africa trade through the elimination of trade barriers and taking advantage of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area Agreement.

She told the session AGRA has been working to help countries on the African continent develop food systems transformation plans so partners that intend to invest in agriculture, know where to begin.

She says investments in Africa’s agricultural sector that prioritises private sector involvement will eventually pay off.

“We have 20 to 25 countries that between them need $10b to transform their food systems… If we don’t do it, we will spend 2.5 times as much. We are already spending a lot on social protection in Africa. We need to start tilting the banner towards more investments so there is an end in sight,” she said.

Chief Executive Officer of the Pan-African Farmers Organisation Babafemi Oyewole told the meeting farmers are still struggling to get support from partners to help Africa achieve SDG 1 on no poverty and SDG 2 on zero hunger.

“We need to help farmers overcome poverty and food insecurity. We need to help farmers overcome the challenges of climate change,” he said.

Mr. Oyewole called for support for initiatives that educate farmers and the populace on SDGs. “A study was done in Ghana that showed farmers who were aware of SGD 2 were more food secure… We need to support farmer organisations and build their capacities to understand the SGDs,” he said.

Other speakers at the session included Qu Dongyu, FAO Director-General; Michael Martin, Deputy Prime Minister of Ireland; Cindy H. McCain, World Food Program Executive Director; Mr. Axel van Trotsenburg, World Bank Senior Managing Director; Mariam Almheiri, United Arab Emirates Minister for Climate Change and Environment, and Josefa Leonel Correia Sacko, African Union Commissioner, among others.

Source: https://www.myjoyonline.com

Malawian groundnut farmer transitions into global trader in a remarkable three years

Posted on by AGRA Content Hub

In the dynamic world of agriculture and agribusiness, success stories are not limited to seasoned veterans. Sometimes, passionate individuals with a vision and determination can achieve remarkable feats in a short span of time. One such inspirational figure is Ellen Gunda, a groundnut off-taker based in Malawi, whose business journey has been nothing short of exceptional.

Ellen embarked on her entrepreneurial journey in 2020, driven by her love for agriculture and the desire to contribute to her community’s economic growth. Recognizing the potential of groundnut production in Malawi, she identified a unique opportunity to establish herself as a groundnut off-taker, bridging the gap between smallholder farmers and the wider market.

Starting with limited resources, Ellen set out to build relationships with local groundnut farmers. She offered fair prices, timely payments, and transparent transactions, winning the trust of the farming community. Through her tireless efforts and commitment to quality, Ellen soon established a reputation as a reliable off-taker.

As her business flourished, her aspirations grew beyond the borders of Malawi, recognizing the untapped potential for groundnut export to neighboring countries. Determined to explore new markets and expand her reach, Ellen began aggregating groundnut not only for local companies but also for buyers in Zambia and South Africa.

Her efforts to establish export channels required extensive networking, market research, and understanding of trade regulations. She navigated these challenges with resilience and strategic thinking, ensuring that her groundnut met international standards and complied with the requirements of her clients abroad.

Through her dedication and professionalism, Ellen successfully secured long-term contracts with companies in Zambia and South Africa. Her ability to consistently provide high-quality groundnuts, combined with her commitment to reliable supply, set her apart in the competitive market.

Ellen’s success story has had a profound impact on both the local economy and the lives of smallholder farmers. By offering fair prices and prompt payments, she has empowered farmers to invest in their operations, improve their livelihoods, and contribute to sustainable agricultural practices. Her partnership with farmers has become a catalyst for positive change in rural communities.

Furthermore, her venture into export markets has not only expanded her business but also positioned Malawi as a reliable source of quality groundnut. By showcasing the country’s agricultural potential on an international stage, she has opened doors for other small-scale farmers and agribusinesses to explore global trade opportunities.

Ellen’s journey from a budding entrepreneur to an accomplished groundnut off-taker and exporter is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and a keen understanding of market dynamics. Her success story showcases the potential within the agricultural sector and serves as an inspiration to aspiring agribusiness entrepreneurs in Malawi and beyond.

Innovative savings program transforms Malawi’s farmers’ lives

Posted on by AGRA Content Hub

By Content Hub

Imagine a world where smallholder farmers can not only sustain their enterprises but also expand them, thriving in their pursuit of success. In Malawi, this dream became a reality when Agriculture Direct, a local agro-dealer, identified a pressing challenge faced by farmers and took it upon themselves to create a groundbreaking solution.

Observing the struggles of many small-scale farmers who found it difficult to afford vital inputs like seeds, fertilizers, and crop protection products, Agriculture Direct decided to take action. They introduced a unique savings program tailored explicitly for farmers, revolutionizing the way they could accumulate funds for their agricultural needs.

To bring this innovative program to life, Agriculture Direct forged partnerships with local community groups and agricultural cooperatives. Together, they organized regular meetings and workshops, providing farmers with invaluable knowledge on the significance of saving money and modern farming practices. The agro-dealer went above and beyond, offering guidance on effective seed protection techniques, sustainable farming methods, and crop management strategies.

The impact has been remarkable, as farmers quickly recognized the immense value of the program and wholeheartedly embraced it. With every harvest season, the farmers set aside a portion of their earnings and entrust their savings to Agriculture Direct. The agro-dealer maintain meticulous records, ensuring transparency and accountability for each farmer’s funds, safely storing them until they are needed.

Over time, the true magnitude of Agriculture Direct’s savings program has become evident as farmers who once struggled to afford essential farm inputs now have the means to make significant purchases every season. This transformation has resulted in improved crop yields, leading to increased incomes and enhanced food security for farming communities across the country.

“One can witness the impact of Agriculture Direct’s savings program as farmers who previously struggled to afford farm inputs can now comfortably make large purchases every season, for improved crop yields that lead to increased incomes, and enhanced food security,” said Agriculture Direct’s representative, Miragie Kamundoni Stand.

By equipping farmers with knowledge and resources, Agriculture Direct has empowered them to become self-reliant and skilled in their agricultural endeavors. The savings program continues to spread across the country, where it serves as a leading example of how determination, creativity, and a genuine desire to uplift communities can bring about significant positive change.

Agriculture Direct’s initiative has not only transformed the lives of individual farmers but also revitalized entire communities. The success of this program is a testament to the potential of even the smallest initiatives to create a lasting impact.