Editor’s Note: Africa significantly needs investment in agricultural innovation to drive economic growth, address unique challenges like food security and climate change and achieve sustainable development. With recent commitments of the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) Strategy and Action Plan focusing on creating a sustainable and climate-resilient food system in the continent, African leaders need to recognise and embrace the key role agricultural innovation plays in helping to build a food-secure future for the continent.
Since 2003, the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) has been a key driver of agricultural transformation in Africa, shaping policies, mobilising resources and fostering regional cooperation. Despite progress, challenges like low productivity, climate change and insufficient investment hinder the sector’s potential.
The CAADP Strategy and Action Plan (2026-2035), developed through an inclusive process, aims to create more sustainable, resilient and inclusive food systems in Africa. CAADP implementation over the past two decades has revealed both successes and gaps. As of September 2023, 42 countries had updated their National Agricultural Investment Plans (NAIPs), and 28 established mechanisms for mutual accountability and peer review, primarily through Joint Sectoral Review. Additionally, 36 countries were implementing evidence-based policies, 31 had functional multisectoral coordination bodies, mainly through agricultural sector working groups, and 22 had engaged in public-private partnerships to strengthen specific agricultural value chains.
However, meeting financial commitments remains a challenge. Few countries have met the target of allocating 10 per cent of public expenditure to agriculture. Government spending on agriculture has declined, highlighting the need for innovative financing mechanisms. Despite these challenges, some countries like Ethiopia and Malawi have consistently met the 10 per cent target. The expansion of intra-African trade, particularly through AfCFTA, supports agricultural growth and market integration. However, the reliance on self-reporting and expert assessments in tracking progress underscores the need for stronger accountability frameworks.
The recently unveiled CAADP 2026-2035 Strategy is a comprehensive plan that addresses the evolving challenges confronting the African continent. It is particularly focused on emerging trends such as rapid urbanisation, technological advancements, climate change and the expanding youth population. The Strategy’s overarching objective is to foster “Sustainable and Resilient Agri-Food Systems for a Healthy and Prosperous Africa.” To achieve this, it aims to intensify sustainable food production, increase investments, ensure food security, promote inclusivity and strengthen governance. By implementing these strategies, Africa can transition from conventional subsistence agriculture to a modern, technology-driven and investment-friendly agri-food system.
The role of innovation in agricultural transformation
A fundamental tenet of the CAADP Strategy is the enhancement of access to and investment in agricultural innovation, with particular emphasis on advancements in digital agriculture, climate-smart practices, biotechnology and value addition. The utilisation of smart farming technologies, such as precision agriculture, drones and artificial intelligence, has the potential to optimise resource utilisation and enhance productivity. Furthermore, climate-smart innovations, including drought-resistant seeds and sustainable irrigation, not only assist farmers in adapting to climate change but also contribute to the improvement of soil health.
Biotechnology has been identified as a key catalyst for enhancing agricultural yields and ensuring food security through the introduction of advanced seed varieties, soil nutrient management techniques and biological pest control measures. Additionally, the investment in agro-processing and value chains has been identified as a strategy to reduce post-harvest losses, enhance food safety and increase farmers’ incomes by facilitating their connection to high-value markets. While these innovations possess the potential to bring about transformative change, their large-scale adoption necessitates substantial investment and strategic financial support, a challenge that remains significant for the African continent.
Bridging the gap in investments
Despite the stipulations outlined in the Maputo and Malabo Declarations, which commit signatory nations to allocate a minimum of 10 per cent of public expenditure to the agricultural sector, the majority of African countries fail to meet this benchmark. Cognisant of this shortfall, the CAADP 2026-2035 Strategy aims to mobilise $100 billion in public and private investments to catalyse the transformation of agri-food systems. Achieving this objective necessitates governmental encouragement of private sector investment in agribusiness and agricultural technology.
Public-private partnerships can drive investment in agro-industrial parks, food processing hubs, and digital infrastructure. Innovative financing mechanisms, such as blended finance models, agricultural insurance and credit guarantees, can reduce risks and attract investors. Africa can also leverage diaspora bonds, development funds and climate finance instruments like green bonds to support sustainable agriculture initiatives.
Additionally, women and youth-led agribusinesses are critical to agricultural growth. The establishment of agripreneurship incubators and innovation hubs has the potential to empower young entrepreneurs while expanding land access, financial services and capacity-building programs for women farmers could help to bridge the gender gap in agricultural productivity. By allocating resources to these key areas, the African continent has the opportunity to unlock its agricultural potential and establish resilient, productive food systems.
Strengthening research and extension services
Investing in agricultural innovation necessitates more than mere financial support; it requires the establishment of robust research institutions and the implementation of effective extension services to facilitate the translation of scientific advancements into practical applications.
The enhancement of collaborative efforts between African universities, research centres and global institutions can expedite the development of technologies tailored to local needs. The expansion of digital advisory services and electronic extension programs can provide farmers with real-time market insights, weather updates and guidance on optimal agricultural practices. Leveraging mobile platforms and farmer networks can empower smallholder farmers to make informed decisions that enhance productivity and resilience. The enhancement of agricultural extension services is predicated on the premise that it will ensure innovations reach farmers at the grassroots level, thereby closing the gap between research and practical implementation.
Substantial investments: a call to action
The transformation of Africa’s agricultural sector is contingent upon substantial investments in innovation and technology. The CAADP 2026-2035 Strategy offers a well-defined plan to achieve sustainable food production, economic growth and resilience. Achieving this objective necessitates robust collaboration among governments, private sector entities, research institutions and development partners. To this end, policymakers must prioritise agricultural innovation by implementing targeted policies that promote technology adoption, research funding and market access.
The private sector must increase investments in agribusiness and value chain development, while international development partners must align their financial and technical support with Africa’s long-term agricultural vision. By leveraging strategic investment and innovation to unlock Africa’s agricultural potential, the continent can establish a food-secure, prosperous and resilient future. The time to act is now. Through collective commitment and action, Africa can transform its food systems, uplift millions from poverty and establish itself as a leader in sustainable agricultural development.
