AGRA

Despite the promising landscape, young Rwandan agri-preneurs and smallholder farmers often encounter significant obstacles that hinder their full participation in the agricultural value chain. Chief among these challenges are limited access to markets, high transaction costs, inadequate access to finance, and a lack of technical skills in modern agricultural practices. The complexity of navigating these barriers has historically stifled agribusinesses’ growth and limited young farmers’ economic contributions.

However, a unique partnership has taken root, connecting smallholder farmers directly with markets and fostering sustainable agriculture. At the center stage, AGRA, with a mission to catalyze agricultural growth, is sowing seeds of transformation – driving initiatives that bridge the gap between youth agri-preneurs and market opportunities, fostering economic development and creating decent jobs for youth.

The World Bank predicts that African agriculture and agribusiness will grow into an €890 billion industry by 2030. Other studies show that the food and agriculture market could increase from US$280 billion annually in 2023 to US$1 trillion by 2030. This presents significant rewards for young people who tap into the industry as farmers and entrepreneurs. With about 78% of Rwanda’s population under the age of 35, according to The Rwanda Youth Survey Report, this demographic presents a tremendous opportunity for the country’s agricultural sector.

Josephine Armand, founder of Kunda Foods, Rwanda’s first artisanal gelato brand, and Pacifique Niyorurema, Founder of Fresco Fruits, are a shining example of how young Rwandan agri-preneurs are harnessing this potential. Their stories highlight the success of the Kigali Restaurant Week, spearheaded by AGRA.

“Being a part of the Kigali Restaurant Week has significantly impacted my business,” says Josephine. “It’s opened doors to new customers and allowed us to showcase the potential of Rwandan ingredients.”

Pacifique, on the other hand, expresses, “We are very grateful for this opportunity, which we learnt about through the Rwanda Youth in Agribusiness Forum (RYAF). It has allowed us to expand our network of farmers and explore new markets, especially the partnership with Kunda Foods, whom we are supplying to, up to three times weekly now.”

Josephine’s path to Kunda Foods began in Switzerland, where she honed her expertise in sustainable practices within the luxury gemstone supply chain. Upon returning to Rwanda, she recognized a vibrant restaurant scene yearning for high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. This gap fueled her vision for Kunda Foods.

With a commitment to both deliciousness and sustainability, Josephine sources ingredients directly from Rwandan farmers, creating a win-win situation. Local farmers are able to benefit from increased demand and stable prices while Kunda Foods brings to life every unique Rwandan flavor in each plate and continues to support the local economy. This approach fosters a resilient and sustainable supply chain, a critical factor for long-term success.

“We’re committed to using the freshest, most flavorful Rwandan produce,” Josephine explains. “It’s not just about creating delicious gelato; it’s about supporting our local communities and creating a positive environmental impact.”

Echoing her commitment, Pacifique notes, “Our initial engagement with Josephine was majorly keen on sustainable Agriculture. In fact, the basis of our agreement is pegged on the quality of fruits we bring to them and specifically the condition in which they are grown. He further adds “With Kunda, it’s not about the volume; it’s all about the quality of the fruits we bring to them and those especially grown through sustainable practices.”

Subsequently, Fresco Fruits has redefined the fruit supply chain by ensuring that local farmers’ produce reaches the market fresh, nutritious, and ready for consumption. Their efforts have not only improved livelihoods but have also contributed significantly to the local economy.

‘We don’t just look for volume,’ Pacifique emphasizes. ‘We look for the impact we can make. We want to help farmers send their children to school and build a better future.’

Founded on the principle of empowering farmers, they directly purchase produce, eliminating exploitative middlemen and ensuring fair prices.

‘We started because we saw how farmers were being dictated by middlemen,’ explains Pacifique Niyorurema, Fresco Fruits’ founder. ‘We used to receive meagre prices and long payment delays.’

Fresco Fruits’ approach is rooted in collaboration. They partner with farmers, providing them with advance payments, technical assistance, and access to a reliable market. A testament to their collaborative spirit is Fresco Fruits’ successful partnership with Kunda Foods, a renowned Kigali restaurant.

“The future of agriculture is bright,” says Josephine. “With hard work, dedication, and support from initiatives like AGRA’s Kigali Restaurant Week, young Rwandan agri-preneurs can transform our food systems and build a more sustainable future.”

For many young entrepreneurs in Africa, the journey from farm to market is fraught with challenges. Access to markets is a colossal barrier that stifles potential growth at its inception. However, both Kunda Foods and Fresco Fruits’ success stories serve as a beacon of hope as Rwanda continues to position itself as a leader in agricultural innovation on the continent.

In light of these achievements, the future of Rwanda’s agribusiness looks promising. With continued support from organizations like AGRA and more collaborative efforts within the industry, their journey is a testament to the possibilities that arise when youth, innovation, and collaboration converge to rewrite the narrative of African agriculture.

By Cheng Cheng

AGRA co-hosted a workshop on Africa-China Agricultural Mechanization and Digitization Cooperation the first of it kind. The event was co-hosted by China Association of Agricultural Machinery Manufacturers (CAAMM) and Hello Tractor. It was held under the theme of “Agricultural Mechanization and Digitization: A Pathway to Sustainable Transformation of Food Systems, Youth and Female Employment, and Food Security in Africa”.

The seminar brought together representatives from the Chinese government, agriculture-related international organizations, domestic and international financial institutions, and Chinese agricultural machinery manufacturers.

The seminar, which included three sub-forums focused on different topics, was co-chaired by Dr. Cheng Cheng, Lead of Asian Partnerships at AGRA, and Wang Fengde, Deputy Secretary-General of CAAMM. Tang Zhongdong, Consul General from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Prof. Chen Zhi, President of the CAAMM, attended the seminar and delivered opening remarks.

Consul General Tang Zhongdong pointed out that in recent years, China-African economic and trade cooperation has developed rapidly. Chinese enterprises have significant agricultural investments in Africa. However, the proportion of cooperation in the agricultural machinery industry is relatively low. He hopes that this seminar will enhance the depth and breadth of China-African cooperation in agricultural mechanization and digitization, break through the bottlenecks in China-Africa agricultural machinery industry cooperation, explore greater potential for China-African agricultural cooperation and provide diversified and innovative cooperation models. China welcomes all parties to join forces to implement the “Plan for China Supporting Africa’s Agricultural Modernization”, making new and greater contributions to building a closer China-Africa community with a shared future.

President of CAAMM, Chen Zhi put forward several requirements and hopes. First, he urged agricultural machinery enterprises to cooperate with Africa in a timely and appropriate manner, emphasizing the importance of understanding local cultures and respecting local customs to ensure sustainable development. He pointed out that professional organizations like AGRA could provide more assistance to Chinese agricultural machinery enterprises in their cooperation with Africa. Second, he called for agricultural machinery enterprises to improve their risk resilience in cooperation with Africa by adopting Hello Tractor’s advanced digital management methods and service models to ensure effective operation across production, sales, and after-sales services. Third, he stressed the importance of product quality and stability, noting that product quality is fundamental to the survival and development of enterprises. It’s also important to improve after-sales service levels to create globally recognized Chinese agricultural machinery. He expressed that the China Agricultural Machinery Industry Association is committed to supporting industry development, acting as a bridge and link for communication and cooperation, and proactively providing more professional and development-oriented services for China-Africa agricultural mechanization and digitization cooperation.

CEO Jahiel Oliver introduced Hello Tractor’s advanced experience in agricultural machinery leasing, management, and services tailored to Africa’s actual needs and discussed prospects for the future development of China-Africa agricultural mechanization and digitization cooperation.

The seminar then delved into the pain points and challenges in the development of China-Africa agricultural mechanization and digitization cooperation. Participants proposed development strategies focused on policy support, financial matching, integration of machinery and agronomy, and training exchanges, emphasizing trade-first, industry-matching, and trade-industry linkage approaches. Representatives from invited agricultural machinery enterprises communicated fully with international agricultural organizations and financial institutions in a Q&A format, reaching cooperation intentions.

Before the seminar, a delegation from AGRA, Hello Tractor, and WINGI INC visited several major agricultural machinery manufacturing companies, including YTO Group, Weichai Lovol, Changzhou Dongfeng, Changfa Agricultural Machinery, and Shandong Wuzheng.

The policy and legislative environment is a key driver of agricultural transformation. Policy and regulatory regimes “define the rules of the game”. They regulate the roles and behaviour of players in the sector, determine resource allocation, and assign incentives and disincentives accordingly.

Policies shape the business environment by influencing costs, risks, and competition barriers for different players in the agricultural value chain. This in turn extensively affects investment decisions not only by the government but also by the private sector. Thus, by a single stroke of a policy or law, the government can shift the direction and pace of agricultural development.

Opinion leaders in agricultural development agree that the observed changes in Africa’s agriculture and economic fortunes over time have much to do with the policies that African leaders have chosen than anything else. Weak policies and poor legislative decisions have shaped the continent’s agriculture and economic growth by stifling investments in skills, technology, services, and infrastructure.

Whereas regulation is important to ensure safe agricultural practices, setting quality standards, encouraging innovation and sustainable use of resources; heavy regulation creates burdensome procedures and high transaction costs and can be detrimental, especially to small players. Therefore, the benefits of regulations should always outweigh its social and economic costs. Excessive regulation with opaque discretion and overbearing regulations in the agriculture sector can constrain innovation and trade, to the detriment of poor farmers in the rural villages in the continent.

Agriculture policy and legislative regimes are very dynamic. Governments are constantly enacting new policies and revising existing ones. Yet, a lingering question is how grounded these decisions are in solid data and evidence. Many times, policies have had unintended negative consequences, while others are lacking in key aspects that ensure effectiveness, equity, and sustainability.

 Consider the policies enacted by African countries since independence. In the 1960s-1980s, many nations implemented import substitution industrialization policies, which included trade restrictions like import barriers, marketing controls, and export taxes. These measures aimed to protect nascent industries from competition. However, they inadvertently raised prices for imported fertilizer and equipment, while exports lost competitiveness due to currency appreciation.

The infamous Structural Adjustment Programs (SAPs) instituted in the 1980s-1990s pushed for better incentives for producers and reduced restrictions for the private sector to invest by eliminating public agricultural marketing boards, ending subsidies, deregulating agricultural pricing and marketing. Evidence is mixed, but many countries experienced strong productivity growth in the 2000s, as a result of macroeconomic stabilization.

At the continental level, the post-2000s era policy has been driven by the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP), the 2014 Malabo Declaration on Accelerated Agricultural Growth and Transformation for Shared Prosperity and Improved Livelihoods, and the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). These commitments require countries to allocate at least 10 percent of public expenditures to agriculture, achieve a 6 percent average annual agricultural growth rate, and reduce restrictions to intra-African agricultural trade, among others. Although CAADP has resulted in increased prominence of agriculture in policy agendas and therefore expenditure and funding, research shows that most of the funding has been allocated to input subsidies.

The subsidies, although associated with increased use of inputs and higher agricultural yields, are poorly designed and rife with inefficiency, bias, and corruption. Implementation of the AfCFTA is constrained by the continued use of temporary regional trade restriction policies, ostensibly as countries seek to respond to food supply and deficit conditions. The International Trade Centre data finds that 70% of African food exporters are affected by challenges related to non-tariff measures. These trade-restricting policy measures sometimes founder and push prices higher.

Ex-ante policy analysis and pre-legislative assessments utilize predictive analysis techniques to forecast the impact of a policy or legislation prior to its implementation. During an ex-ante evaluation, policymakers gather data and evidence to assess the thoroughness of problem/gap diagnostics, relevance and coherence of proposed strategies and objectives to users, consistency with other policies and strategies, pragmatism of expected results, and economic and social impacts on various stakeholders and their activities.

Policies informed by data and evidence are more likely to be effective, equitable, and sustainable. Yet, despite the clear benefits, there are many instances where agriculture policy and legislative decisions are driven more by political expedience or ideology than by data and evidence.

Policymakers in Africa face data availability and quality challenges. Outdated, incomplete, and biased data hinder effective decision-making. Political interests often override evidence-based choices. For instance, despite evidence of inefficiency, bias, and corruption, some governments persistently implement publicly driven input subsidy programs instead of exploring private sector-driven alternatives.

To overcome such challenges, African governments and partners should invest in robust data collection and analytics infrastructure (technology) and skilling (training of personnel to analyze and interpret data). To effectively utilize the data for policy, a culture of transparency and accountability, where data and the rationale behind policy decisions are shared publicly to build trust with stakeholders should be fostered.  The CAADP Biennial Review process is an example of a publicly available accountability mechanism where the performance of countries against the various Malabo declaration indicators is tracked. Lastly, the role of stakeholder engagement cannot be ignored.

Inclusion of various interest groups such as scientist groups and think tanks, provides reliable evidence and exchange of knowledge, while public engagement enhances scrutiny, relevance, and acceptance of policies.

Poultry Farming is an important Safety Net for the Youth

Poultry farming presents a golden opportunity for African youth to transform their lives and contribute to food security. As the continent faces challenges related to unemployment, malnutrition, and poverty, engaging young people in poultry production can be a game-changer.  

According to the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) the importance of poultry on livelihoods and food security lies in the provision of meat, and eggs, while being a strategic household investment. 

Poultry is also an important safety net in the event of a drought – it is easily disposable for cash when need arises or during droughts.  

Rearing poultry can be a rewarding venture, especially for young farmers. Here are some key skills to focus on: 

1. Education and Knowledge: Before diving into poultry farming, invest time in learning. Explore resources online, government extension programs, and agricultural colleges. Understand different breeds, proper chicken care, nutrition, disease prevention, and biosecurity measures.  
2. Communication and Negotiation: Young poultry farmers should learn how to effectively communicate with suppliers, customers, and other stakeholders. Negotiation skills can help secure better deals with feed merchants and hatcheries.  
3. Understanding Inputs and Costings: Learn about the costs involved in poultry production. Understand feed prices, raw materials, and other inputs. Managing volatility in commodity markets is essential.  
4. Biosecurity Measures: Implement practices to prevent disease outbreaks. Biosecurity helps protect your flock from infections and ensures healthy birds. 
5. Record Keeping: Maintain detailed records of expenses, production, and health status. Good record-keeping enables informed decision-making. 
6. Practical Skills: Hands-on experience matters. Learn how to handle chicks, manage broilers, and care for layers. Practical skills include feeding, housing, and disease management. 
7. Market Awareness: Understand market trends, consumer preferences, and demand. Stay informed about poultry industry developments. 

Remember, passion, dedication, and adaptability are essential traits for successful poultry farming. 

“Data-Driven Revolution: How African Policymakers Can Transform Agriculture

Revolutionising African Agriculture: Data-Driven Imperatives“

By  Davis Muthuni

The policy and legislative environment is a key driver of agricultural transformation. Policy and regulatory regimes “define the rules of the game”. They regulate the roles and behaviour of players in the sector, determine resource allocation, and assign incentives and disincentives accordingly.

Policies shape the business environment by influencing costs, risks, and competition barriers for different players in the agricultural value chain. This in turn extensively affects investment decisions not only by the government but also by the private sector. Thus, by a single stroke of a policy or law, the government can shift the direction and pace of agricultural development.

Opinion leaders in agricultural development agree that the observed changes in Africa’s agriculture and economic fortunes over time have much to do with the policies that African leaders have chosen than anything else. Weak policies and poor legislative decisions have shaped the continent’s agriculture and economic growth by stifling investments in skills, technology, services, and infrastructure.

Whereas regulation is important to ensure safe agricultural practices, setting quality standards, encouraging innovation and sustainable use of resources; heavy regulation creates burdensome procedures and high transaction costs and can be detrimental, especially to small players. Therefore, the benefits of regulations should always outweigh its social and economic costs. Excessive regulation with opaque discretion and overbearing regulations in the agriculture sector can constrain innovation and trade, to the detriment of poor farmers in the rural villages in the continent.

Agriculture policy and legislative regimes are very dynamic. Governments are constantly enacting new policies and revising existing ones. Yet, a lingering question is how grounded these decisions are in solid data and evidence. Many times, policies have had unintended negative consequences, while others are lacking in key aspects that ensure effectiveness, equity, and sustainability.

 Consider the policies enacted by African countries since independence. In the 1960s-1980s, many nations implemented import substitution industrialization policies, which included trade restrictions like import barriers, marketing controls, and export taxes. These measures aimed to protect nascent industries from competition. However, they inadvertently raised prices for imported fertilizer and equipment, while exports lost competitiveness due to currency appreciation.

The infamous Structural Adjustment Programs (SAPs) instituted in the 1980s-1990s pushed for better incentives for producers and reduced restrictions for the private sector to invest by eliminating public agricultural marketing boards, ending subsidies, deregulating agricultural pricing and marketing. Evidence is mixed, but many countries experienced strong productivity growth in the 2000s, as a result of macroeconomic stabilization.

At the continental level, the post-2000s era policy has been driven by the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP), the 2014 Malabo Declaration on Accelerated Agricultural Growth and Transformation for Shared Prosperity and Improved Livelihoods, and the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). These commitments require countries to allocate at least 10 percent of public expenditures to agriculture, achieve a 6 percent average annual agricultural growth rate, and reduce restrictions to intra-African agricultural trade, among others. Although CAADP has resulted in increased prominence of agriculture in policy agendas and therefore expenditure and funding, research shows that most of the funding has been allocated to input subsidies.

The subsidies, although associated with increased use of inputs and higher agricultural yields, are poorly designed and rife with inefficiency, bias, and corruption. Implementation of the AfCFTA is constrained by the continued use of temporary regional trade restriction policies, ostensibly as countries seek to respond to food supply and deficit conditions. The International Trade Centre data finds that 70% of African food exporters are affected by challenges related to non-tariff measures. These trade-restricting policy measures sometimes founder and push prices higher.

Ex-ante policy analysis and pre-legislative assessments utilize predictive analysis techniques to forecast the impact of a policy or legislation prior to its implementation. During an ex-ante evaluation, policymakers gather data and evidence to assess the thoroughness of problem/gap diagnostics, relevance and coherence of proposed strategies and objectives to users, consistency with other policies and strategies, pragmatism of expected results, and economic and social impacts on various stakeholders and their activities.

Policies informed by data and evidence are more likely to be effective, equitable, and sustainable. Yet, despite the clear benefits, there are many instances where agriculture policy and legislative decisions are driven more by political expedience or ideology than by data and evidence.

Policymakers in Africa face data availability and quality challenges. Outdated, incomplete, and biased data hinder effective decision-making. Political interests often override evidence-based choices. For instance, despite evidence of inefficiency, bias, and corruption, some governments persistently implement publicly driven input subsidy programs instead of exploring private sector-driven alternatives.

To overcome such challenges, African governments and partners should invest in robust data collection and analytics infrastructure (technology) and skilling (training of personnel to analyze and interpret data). To effectively utilize the data for policy, a culture of transparency and accountability, where data and the rationale behind policy decisions are shared publicly to build trust with stakeholders should be fostered.  The CAADP Biennial Review process is an example of a publicly available accountability mechanism where the performance of countries against the various Malabo declaration indicators is tracked. Lastly, the role of stakeholder engagement cannot be ignored.

Inclusion of various interest groups such as scientist groups and think tanks, provides reliable evidence and exchange of knowledge, while public engagement enhances scrutiny, relevance, and acceptance of policies.

On the third and last day of the summit, AGRA Board Chair His Excellency Hailemariam Desalegn joined several Heads of State to advocate for practical measures that safeguard the health of African soils is key. He emphasised to the attendees the necessity of soil preservation, citing its dual role in improving food security and guaranteeing environmental sustainability.

See a recap of his remarks below;

H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn addressed the various Heads of State present during the first session of the last day of the Summit. He began by emphasising that more was needed to sustain Africa’s growing population and combat climate change.

He raised a challenge on how to significantly boost the yields of crops while conserving soil health and reducing environmental impact. Ethiopia’s Sustainable Land Management Program served as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the transformative effect of investing in soil regeneration and watershed management. With reduced soil loss and greater crop yields, the initiative demonstrates the value of focused interventions.

Recognizing the need for data-driven solutions, Ethiopia’s Soil Information System highlighted the importance of extensive soil analysis. By providing district-level soil fertility maps and targeted fertilizer recommendations, the initiative has enabled farmers to make better-educated decisions, optimising agricultural potential.

Addressing the need for fresh policy prescriptions, he advocated for targeted incentives based on the most frequently utilised nutrients in specific regions, intending to lower overall subsidy costs. These efforts constitute a change from the business-as-usual norm, providing promising solutions for agricultural sustainability.

He also urged African leaders to commit to supporting the African Fertilizer and Soil Health Summit by lobbying for technical, political, and financial support to drive long-term change. By adopting the African Fertilizer and Soil Health 10-Year Action Plan, he called for collaboration to ensure that every African has access to nutritious food and that African soils are sustainable for current and future generations.

“Africa’s agricultural future depends on sustainable growth, collaboration, and innovative solutions. Africa can realise its agricultural potential by prioritizing soil health, encouraging innovation, and building global partnerships while ensuring food security and environmental sustainability for future generations,” he noted.

Vision for Adapted Crops and Soils (VACs)

In a move to bolster Africa’s agricultural resilience, AGRA has deepened its commitment to advancing the vision for Adapted Crops and Soils, or VACs. This strategic commitment, announced in collaboration with the U.S. Special Envoy Cary Fowler and the broader VACs coalition, marks a pivotal moment in the continent’s pursuit of sustainable food systems.

AGRA’s renewed focus on VACs aligns with the Soils Initiative for Africa and the African Fertilizer and Soil Health Action Plan, signaling a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges of climate change and food security. By championing diverse, nutritious, and climate-adapted crops cultivated in healthy soils, AGRA aims to build resilient food systems that can withstand the impacts of a changing climate.

Building upon its existing groundwork and in-country partner networks, AGRA is poised to scale up efforts in advancing VACs across Africa. AGRA has committed to integrating VACs into the Africa Food Systems forum, fostering dialogue and collaboration on sustainable agricultural practices.

Furthermore, AGRA is committed to leveraging its community and partnerships to promote VACs-aligned initiatives and investment opportunities. AGRA will also work with government partners to develop and implement actionable policy recommendations that advance this shared vision.

A Summary of the Nairobi Declaration

As the summit came to a close, the importance of the 10-year Action Plan became more evident. It was discovered that due to decades of continuous soil nutrient mining and soil aging, Africa’s soils, which are among the oldest in the world, have become the poorest. An estimated more than $4 billion in soil nutrients is lost each year, putting Africa’s ability to feed itself in danger. However, many African farmers still do not have access to fertilizers or cannot afford the inputs required to bring life back into their soils and halt the downward spiral of environmental deterioration. 

The Action Plan “will mark a pivotal stride towards a green revolution across Africa, laying the groundwork for an agricultural renaissance.”

The Action Plan will be guided by 5 key action points that will serve as the roadmap for transformative change. The Nairobi Declaration was a result of discussions among various stakeholders, including policymakers, scientists, farmers and private-sector representatives to declare:

• Endorsement of Fertiliser and Soil Health Action Plan & the Soil Initiative for Africa Framework as key guiding documents.
• Commitment to tripling domestic production and distribution of both organic and inorganic fertilizers, ensuring they reach 70% of small-holder farmers across the continent.
• Commitment to reversing land degradation and restoring soil health on at least 30% of degraded soil by 2033.
• Commitment to fully operationalise the Africa Fertiliser Financing Mechanism.
• Private sector to increase investments in Africa’s fertilizer industry and promote sustainable soil management practices.
• Our governments to create an enabling environment to attract more private-sector investments
• African Union Commission and African Union Development Agency-NEPAD (AUDA-NEPAD) to support Member States to implement the commitments we made in the Nairobi Declaration
• Development partners to support governments and regional economic communities in adopting best practices in fertilizer use and soil management.
• Heads of State and Government to collaborate closely in implementing the endorsed 10-year action plan for sustainable soil health at the domestic level

This declaration will address key topics including soil nutrient management, the impact of climate change, regenerative methods, and the implementation of African leaders’ past agreements to increase agricultural production.

While giving remarks following the declaration, AGRA’s Director of Climate Change, Sustainable Productivity and Resilience Dr. Tilahun Amede stated that the Action Plan has been supported by AGRA who brought the technocrats together, set the agenda, drafted the action plans, which is now declared in the summit.

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.

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.