In this discussion, a Nigerian farmer and a Tanzanian farmer shed light on the pressing challenges in African agriculture. They tackle deteriorating soil quality, rising costs, and insecurity impacting food production. The conversation highlights the upcoming Africa Food Systems Forum in Kigali, where young people and women are deemed crucial for sustainable farming. The farmers advocate for better access to capital and support systems to empower the next generation in agriculture, while stressing the importance of tangible outcomes from conferences.
Rising input costs and climate unpredictability are forcing African farmers to reduce their cultivated land, drastically impacting their financial stability.
Supporting young farmers through improved access to capital and reduced risks is essential for revitalizing agricultural productivity in Africa.
Deep dives
The Impact of Rising Costs on Farming
Inflation has led to skyrocketing input costs for farmers, forcing many, like those in Nigeria, to drastically reduce the land they cultivate. Some farmers who previously worked multiple plots can now only afford to farm a single one, which underscores the financial strain they are under. The combination of rising prices and unpredictable weather patterns means that many farmers end their seasons without any profit, making their hard work feel futile. This situation is exacerbated by deteriorating soil quality and increasing insecurity from militant groups, which further threatens agricultural productivity in the region.
Youth Participation in Agriculture
Young farmers face significant challenges when trying to enter the agricultural sector, with access to capital being a primary obstacle. Many potential young entrepreneurs have innovative ideas but struggle to secure funding due to perceived risks associated with agriculture. The need to make agriculture more appealing and accessible is emphasized, suggesting that governments and private sector initiatives must create more supportive environments for young farmers. By demystifying banking, reducing interest rates, and providing guarantees, the flow of funds can be improved, enabling young individuals to invest in farming as a viable career.
Creating Sustainable Food Systems Through Collaboration
Conferences focusing on agricultural sustainability stress the importance of holding stakeholders accountable for their commitments and actions. The need for concrete results and monitoring progress is highlighted to ensure that discussions lead to meaningful improvements for farmers, rather than becoming mere talk. Success stories from initiatives across Africa demonstrate the potential for impactful programs and the need for legacy projects that benefit local communities even after conferences conclude. The collaboration between government, private sector, and farmers is essential to address the systemic challenges in food production and distribution.
A couple of weeks ago Africa Daily's Alan Kasujja spoke to two farmers in Nigeria and Tanzania about the challenges around farming in Africa. They talked about deteriorating soil quality, rising prices, insecurity and unreliable weather patterns.
This week these issues will be discussed at the Africa Food Systems Forum 2024 summit which will be held in Rwanda’s capital Kigali.
Heads of state, politicians, farmers, and agricultural businesses will be there to look at ways of making the production and distribution of food more sustainable and secure.
And the message this year is that young people and women must be at the heart of this.
In today’s episode Alan Kasujja speaks to two experienced agricultural experts who explain how African farmers can farm more productively and affordably.
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