AGRA

1. What does this year’s IWD mean to you based on the theme?

 This year’s International Women’s Day (IWD) theme “Accelerate Action” reignites my call as a woman country program manager to enhance emphasis on the urgency and importance of taking swift, decisive steps to achieve gender equality.

In my role I have several opportunities to do this and include: –

1. Leadership and Advocacy: As a leader, I am in a pivotal position to lead initiatives that promote gender equality. This involves advocating for policies and programs that address systemic barriers and biases against women.
2. Empowerment and Support: The theme encourages me to focus on empowering women and girls in my community. Under the AGRA Youth for the Future of Agriculture (YEFFA) program, I am keen to ensure 80% of those participating in the program are young women. My focus is to be intentional about creating opportunities for young women for skills enhancement, economic empowerment, and leadership development.
3. Collaboration and Solidarity: “Accelerate Action” calls for collective efforts. I am working with other organizations, stakeholders, and community leaders to amplify the impact of gender equality initiatives.
4. Innovation and Implementation: The theme highlights the need for innovative solutions and effective implementation of strategies and models that have been proven to work. Am therefore leverage data and best practices to design and execute impactful programs, especially for the women.
5. Raising Awareness: Part of accelerating action is raising awareness about gender equality issues. I am leveraging on strategic platforms to support raise the voice of young women, especially the vulnerable, those abled differently, internally displaced and refugees, to educate, challenge stereotypes, and celebrate women’s achievements.
6. Supporting Grassroots Efforts: This year’s theme also calls for supporting grassroots organizations that are making a difference. As a leader I will seek to identify more such organizations, forge collaboration and support these groups to ensure their efforts are sustained and scaled.
7. How is the country’s programmatic work inspiring you to make a difference in society?

AGRA Tanzania is implementing several programs supported by diverse partners, with the key ambition of creating work opportunities for youth, especially young women. The country programmatic work is incredibly inspiring for me, especially as a woman in a leadership role. I draw my inspiration from the following: –

1. Seeing Tangible Impact: Witnessing the positive changes that programs are bringing to communities especially to women is deeply motivating. Whether it’s improved access to education, healthcare, or economic opportunities, seeing the direct benefits of my work has fueled my passion to continue making a difference.
2. Empowering Others: Being in a position to empower other women and girls can be a powerful source of inspiration. Helping them overcome challenges and achieve their potential can create a ripple effect, inspiring more women to take on leadership roles and drive change.
3. Building Resilience: Working on country programs often involves overcoming significant obstacles. This has built in me resilience and a strong sense of purpose, inspiring me to tackle even bigger challenges and advocate for systemic changes.
4. Creating Inclusive Policies: The opportunity to influence and create policies that promote gender equality and social justice has been incredibly fulfilling. Knowing that my work contributes to a more inclusive and equitable society has been a strong motivator.
5. Learning and Growth: The dynamic nature of programmatic work offers continuous learning and growth opportunities. This has inspired me to innovate and implement new strategies that address emerging issues and needs in society.
6. Networking and Collaboration: Collaborating with diverse stakeholders, including other organizations, government agencies, and community leaders, has provided me a broader perspective and inspire new ideas and approaches to making a difference.
7. Role Modeling: As a woman in a leadership position, I serve as a role model for others. My success and dedication will inspire other women and girls to pursue their dreams and contribute to societal change.
8. How do you continue building a better food systems universe for more women out there?

As a woman program manager, I have a unique opportunity to drive meaningful change in food systems and empower more women. I will do so through the following strategies:

1. Promote Gender-Inclusive Policies: Advocate for policies that ensure equal access to resources, training, and opportunities for women in agriculture and food systems. This includes landownership, financial services, and technology.
2. Support Women’s Leadership: Encourage and support women to take on leadership roles within food systems. Provide mentorship and training programs to help them develop the skills needed to lead effectively.
3. Foster Collaboration: Work with other organizations, government agencies, and community leaders to create a network of support for women in food systems. Collaborative efforts can amplify the impact of your initiatives.
4. Implement Gender-Sensitive Programs: Design and implement programs that address the specific needs and challenges faced by women in food systems. This includes considering factors such as time constraints, access to markets, and cultural norms.
5. Raise Awareness: Use my platform to raise awareness about the contributions of women in food systems and the challenges they face. Highlight success stories and advocate for greater recognition and support for women.
6. Encourage Innovation: Support and promote innovative solutions that can improve food security and empower women. This could involve new farming techniques, sustainable practices, or technology that makes food production more efficient.
7. Measure Impact: Regularly assess the impact of the programs on women’s empowerment and food security. Use data to identify areas for improvement and to demonstrate the effectiveness of the initiatives.

In the pursuit of agricultural transformation and food security, the Civil Society Agriculture Network (CISANET) in Malawi has emerged as a powerful catalyst, igniting a revolution in the seed sector and empowering smallholder farmers. With AGRA’s unwavering support, CISANET has orchestrated a remarkable transformation through its dynamic Seed Monitoring Committees (SMCs).

 The SMCs are a vibrant network of dedicated individuals that act as guardians of the country’s seed value chain. Equipped with a deep understanding of the intricacies of seed production and distribution, they act to ensure that only the highest quality seeds find their way into the hands of farmers. Their work involves monitoring seed quality according to established national standards in a bid to protect farmers from substandard seeds.

 Yet their impact doesn’t stop there. Their commitment to excellence extends to every corner of the nation, especially the rural areas, where smallholder farmers are the heartbeat of agriculture. Through collaboration with seed producers and distributors, the SMCs establish plans to ensure a timely availability of certified seeds around the country.

 “It is in these remote regions that the spark of transformation ignites, as smallholder farmers gain access to superior seed varieties, unlocking the door to bountiful harvests and financial prosperity,” said CISANET’s Programme Officer, Thokozani Guta.

 The backbone of CISANET’s incredible achievements is its alliance with AGRA, whose financial support propels its vision to new heights. AGRA’s funding fuels an array of groundbreaking initiatives, from the comprehensive training programs that empower SMC members with unrivaled expertise, to the establishment of robust monitoring mechanisms that strengthen the very foundations of the national seed system. The result is a dynamic force of change, a transformative seed system that propels smallholder farmers towards a future of food security and enriched livelihoods.

 The impact of CISANET’s involvement rises beyond immediate improvements in seed quality and availability. With every seed sown, a ripple of collaboration radiates throughout the nation, converging farmers, seed producers, government agencies, and research institutions in a shared space of knowledge, innovation, and growth.

 It is here that Malawi’s agricultural landscape transforms into a vibrant tapestry of progress, where ideas are nurtured, and boundaries are shattered. Through this collaborative approach, CISANET kindles the flames of agricultural growth, lighting the path toward a prosperous and sustainable future for the country’s smallholder farming households.

The development community faces a critical juncture, with only five years remaining to fulfill the 2015 commitment to end hunger by 2030. Currently, a staggering 733 million people – one in eleven individuals globally – suffer from hunger (FAO et al., 2024). If current trends persist, hunger levels in 2030 are projected to exceed those of 2015, the year the world pledged to eradicate hunger under the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Despite economic recovery in many nations, current projections indicate that hunger levels will barely return to pre-COVID-19 levels by 2030, signifying a significant setback in progress.

Recent global shocks and immediate drivers of hunger and malnutrition have exacerbated pre-existing structural challenges, intensifying the current hunger crisis. Key drivers include economic shocks and downturns, ongoing conflicts, and the increasing frequency and severity of climate variability and extreme weather events. Economic vulnerabilities, particularly in countries with high food import dependency, are amplified by global price fluctuations. Furthermore, climate-related impacts, such as the record-breaking temperatures and severe flooding witnessed in 2023, have significantly disrupted food production and availability, deepening the food crises in affected regions (FAO et al., 2024).

A world without hunger is attainable. Global food production per capita continues to increase annually. The primary challenge lies not in insufficient global food production, but rather in the significant disparities between food production and consumption locations, coupled with the limited economic means of vulnerable populations to acquire adequate food. Effective strategies for ending hunger are well-established, and the necessary financial resources have been quantified. One approach is involving youths in agriculture, this can significantly contribute to ending hunger. Young people bring fresh perspectives, energy, and a willingness to adopt new technologies, leading to increased productivity and addressing the aging agricultural workforce. Youth involvement fosters entrepreneurship, creating jobs and economic opportunities, while also empowering them to contribute to increased food production and access, thereby improving food security.

Youths, often more technologically readily integrate technological advancements into agricultural practices. This includes utilizing precision agriculture technologies like GPS-guided tractors and drones, leveraging digital platforms for market access and e-commerce, employing data analytics for informed decision-making, and contributing to the development and implementation of innovative technologies such as AI-powered robots and blockchain. By embracing these technologies, young farmers can enhance productivity, efficiency, and profitability, ultimately contributing to increased food security and a more sustainable agricultural sector. However, addressing challenges such as limited access to resources, making agriculture more attractive, and providing quality education and training are crucial for successful youth engagement.

Another way to end hunger is through income- generation, especially among the agrifood systems. An income-generating approach, based on growth in productivity and incomes for the poorest and most vulnerable through value addition, is the most resilient, sustainable and lasting way end to end hunger (UNIDO, 2023): it combines expanding food production and providing the economic means for population to buy food; this is the most effective way to redistribute production and consumption to where it is needed most.

To effectively utilize value addition for increased food security and hunger eradication, the emphasize needs to be in the following key interventions. Firstly, substantial investments are crucial for enhancing farm productivity and incomes through agricultural research and development (R&D), robust extension services, farm mechanization, and the widespread adoption of information and communications technologies (ICTs) and digital tools. Secondly, significant investments are required for the construction and maintenance of vital infrastructure, including irrigation systems, reliable electricity, well-maintained rural roads, and adequate storage facilities to minimize post-harvest losses

While the role of value addition in agriculture is well-recognized, less explored is its potential to generate income for individuals affected by hunger and poverty through advancements in agrifood processing, distribution, and retail. Investing in agrifood processing, particularly by supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within domestic and regional markets, has proven highly effective. Agrifood processing offers a multifaceted approach: expanding opportunities for producers, bolstering food security, and driving the overall transformation of the food system. Specifically, it mitigates post-harvest losses of nutritious foods through optimized handling, improved packaging, and enhanced cold storage. Concurrently, it enhances food safety by implementing both basic food preservation techniques (e.g., drying, fermentation) and advanced industrial processes (e.g., pasteurization, food fortification)

The successful implementation of the aforementioned investments and technology adoption hinges upon innovative and equitable financial solutions that enable scaling. A significant challenge within the agrifood sector is the limited access to finance, particularly for the ‘missing middle’ – small-scale producers and agrifood SMEs seeking loans. This segment plays a crucial role in driving productivity growth and poverty reduction. To address this, several innovative financing solutions are gaining traction: (i) factoring, (ii) supply chain finance/reverse factoring, (iii) outcome financing, (iv) real estate investment trusts, (v) priority sector lending (PSL), (vi) asset monetization, and (vii) guarantees. These solutions emphasize fostering strong, trust-based relationships among farmers, SMEs, buyers, traders, and wholesalers. However, the success of all these solutions necessitates increased participation from both domestic governments and investors.

Finally, to ensure that the additional income generated through value addition benefits small-scale producers and agrifood SMEs, effective trade and competition policies, coupled with robust regional integration, are paramount. This necessitates reforming detrimental trade policies, facilitating trade processes, and enhancing the enforcement of competition laws and policies by regulatory bodies

Ending hunger necessitates prioritizing income generation for those experiencing hunger and poverty through localized value addition within the agrifood sector. This value addition strategy must be founded on resilience, sustainability, and long-term impact for effective hunger eradication. The success of this income-generating approach hinges on the coordinated international implementation and financing of all the aforementioned interventions. Only an integrated, strategically sequenced, and adequately financed approach can achieve the eradication of hunger.

Nixon Mageka Gecheo is Senior Digital Officer AGRA

At a critical juncture for Africa’s agricultural future, leaders gathered in Kampala, Uganda, to chart the course for the next decade of agricultural transformation. Among the key contributors was Marc Bertin Gansonré, a producer, parliamentarian, and member of the Africa Food Systems Parliamentary Network (AFSPaN). Here, he reflects on the summit’s outcomes and shares his vision for the continent’s food systems.

A Summit for Change: Context and Objectives

The Kampala summit marked the culmination of Africa’s efforts under the Malabo Declaration and the transition to the post-Malabo strategy (2026-2035). Launched in 2003 with the Maputo Declaration and renewed in 2014, the Comprehensive African Agricultural Development Programme (CAADP) has already made strides in boosting agricultural GDP, increasing investments, and reducing poverty. As Marc Bertin Gansonré notes, “The goal was to evaluate the progress and define a roadmap to ensure Africa’s agricultural systems can thrive and sustain its citizens by 2063.”

The new framework seeks to promote sustainable agro-food systems and mobilize long-term internal financing mechanisms to reduce reliance on external support. “The shift is essential for Africa to achieve true sovereignty and resilience in its agricultural sector,” Gansonré adds.

Participatory Collaboration: A New Dynamic

Reflecting on his participation, Gansonré praised the inclusive approach of the summit. “For the first time, voices from civil society and parliamentarians were actively incorporated,” he shares. This inclusivity enriches the dialogue and ensures a broader perspective on tackling hunger and food insecurity.

He highlighted the Ugandan president’s call to action, urging a paradigm shift that integrates all layers of society in transforming agriculture. “Transforming agricultural products and ensuring fair representation for all demographics is paramount to our success,” says Gansonré.

Challenges and Unfinished Business

Despite the summit’s achievements, Gansonré acknowledges the need for more tangible outcomes. “While the leaders’ commitment is commendable, concrete solutions remain elusive,” he observes. He advocates for the development of long-term financing mechanisms and enhanced collaboration among African nations to build resilient agricultural systems.

“We must collectively focus on sharing experiences, embracing technological advancements, and ensuring policies are grounded in the realities of each country,” he emphasizes.

The Role of Burkina Faso: A Model of Commitment

Gansonré’s passion for agricultural transformation is evident in his praise for Burkina Faso’s efforts. “In just two years, Burkina Faso has significantly increased its investment in agriculture, setting an example for the continent,” he states. He believes that scaling such commitments across Africa could drastically reduce hunger and enhance food security.

Looking Forward: A Call to Action

As the summit concluded, Gansonré remained optimistic about Africa’s agricultural future. “The world is a global village, and unity is our strength,” he asserts. He calls on stakeholders to prioritize food security and invest in agricultural innovations, ensuring a sustainable and inclusive future for all Africans.

A Shared Vision for Africa’s Agriculture

This summit highlighted the urgency of transforming Africa’s agricultural sector to meet the challenges of the 21st century. Gansonré’s reflections serve as a reminder that success hinges on collaboration, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to empowering the continent’s smallholder farmers—the true heroes of Africa’s agricultural transformation.

After two hours of driving under the scorching sun in Kitui Rural, we finally arrived at the Kamantho Farmers Marketing Cooperative Society warehouse, the only aggregation store in the region, located in the heart of the village market. Initially established as a self-help group in 2020 and later registered as a Community-Based Organisation (CBO), the Cooperative now serves over 305 registered members and about 2500 non-members from Maleku, Kamantho, and Nthongoni locations.

Ms. Nzambia and an employee confirm the weight of a farmer’s produce at the Cooperative Premises

We were greeted at the Kamantho premises, an imposing building sitting on about one acre of land, by Lyna Judy Nzambia, the cooperative’s chairperson, and several of her committee members. Lyna, a wife, and mother of four, initially employed conventional practices that depleted soil health and fertility. Living in a semi-arid area plagued by the effects of climate change and water scarcity, she struggled to harvest more than two bags of green grams per acre. Faced with poor yields and creeping poverty, she was forced to sell her meager produce to brokers who often exploited her, leaving her in a worse situation.

However, a silver lining emerged in 2020 when the Cereal Growers Association (CGA), an implementing partner of the Strengthening Regenerative Agriculture in Kenya (STRAK) project, introduced regenerative agriculture to the area, challenging conventional norms. STRAK is a project of AGRA with funding from the IKEA Foundation. Lyna and her fellow farmers underwent training on regenerative agriculture practices that restore soil health, improve crop yields, and increase farmers’ income. They also received training on post-harvest handling, entrepreneurship, self-help groups, and aggregation of farm produce.

Regenerative agriculture transformed into a philosophy, reshaping the connection between the land and its stewards. Lyna, driven by a commitment that surpassed her fields and armed with knowledge in entrepreneurship, self-help groups, and aggregation, started an Agrovet shop and spearheaded the formation of the Kamantho Farmers Marketing Cooperative Society self-help group. She was elected the chair lady when they registered as a Community-Based Organisation (CBO). She not only focused on cultivating land regeneratively but also on collective marketing strategies to get their produce the best market and price.

The introduction of regenerative agriculture for the growth of certified seeds, drought-resistant crops such as pearl millet and white sorghum, as well as other value chains for livelihood resilience, marked the birth of a new era for Lyna and the members of the newly registered Kamantho cooperative. They immediately started deploying the new practices, and the community was pleasantly surprised by the results. Lyna reports seeing grain yields increase from two to six bags of green grams per acre. They went from getting a mere sh40 per kilo of green grams to sh100 for the same.

Soon after, the cooperative rented a small room at the marketplace, becoming a unified voice that negotiated fair prices for their harvest. However, the room soon proved too small for the growing collections from the three locations. Towards the end of 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the county government, recognizing the cooperative’s commitment and impact, partnered with other organizations to help them build a bigger storage facility on the unused community land in the heart of the village market. Yet, the cooperative faced skepticism from the villagers over the land.

Initially, they refused to allow the warehouse to be built, but through Lyna’s resilience coupled with the lobbying of the elders and the area chief, they eventually secured the one-acre plot for the warehouse with the support of the community. Non-members of the cooperative are paid upon delivery of produce, while members are paid after aggregation and a market has been found.

The impact of regenerative agriculture continues, and community development is profound. It has become a catalyst for economic growth, improved education, and enhanced living standards for the people of Kamantho. Children who had dropped out of school are back, and many of them are achieving grades that allow them to join universities and Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Colleges. Families are also building permanent houses and moving from their previous grass-thatched dwellings. Community members reported that households are happier and more stable.

“You no longer find women walking around wrapped in lesos around their waist looking desolate. They are looking sharp and happier than before, taking great care of their families, and many more want to join the cooperative as members,” stated Lyna.

Lyna’s story transcends higher yields; it’s a narrative of cultivating hope, restoring ecosystems, and fostering community resilience and unity. Her leadership exemplifies how embracing regenerative agriculture can be the cornerstone of sustainable and thriving communities, where the land and its people heal together. As we celebrate Lyna’s achievements, let her story inspire others to sow the seeds of positive change, one regenerative practice at a time.