By Kelsey-Shae Bailey
Cape Town – Africa is grappling with a severe food insecurity crisis, with over 282 million people
undernourished and more than a billion unable to afford a healthy diet. Despite its vast
agricultural potential, systemic challenges such as corruption, water scarcity, outdated
farming practices, and inadequate infrastructure continue to undermine the continent’s ability
to feed its people.
Corruption remains a significant obstacle, siphoning off resources that could be used to
improve food systems and support agricultural projects. The mismanagement of funds limits
farmers’ access to essential inputs and services, directly impacting food production and
distribution. Additionally, water scarcity and unreliable irrigation systems further hinder
agricultural progress. In many regions, farms are left reliant on inconsistent rainfall, with
droughts exacerbating the situation. Experts emphasize the need for investment in irrigation
infrastructure and water conservation technologies to ensure stable food production,
particularly in arid areas.
Outdated equipment and limited access to modern agricultural technologies also stifle
productivity. African farmers often rely on inefficient tools, restricting their capacity to maximise crop yields. Investing in precision farming techniques and post-harvest storage systems could significantly enhance productivity and reduce food waste. Moreover, poor infrastructure, such as inadequate roads and lack of cold storage, prevents farmers from efficiently delivering
produce to markets, leading to post-harvest losses and higher food prices for consumers.
Ben Leyka, CEO of the African Agri Council, underscores the urgency of addressing these
systemic challenges. “The African Agri Investment Indaba brings together leaders in agriculture
who are in a position to effect real change. It’s about understanding the barriers, identifying
where investment is most needed, and building the infrastructure required to create lasting
food security,” says Leyka.
Political instability and conflict compound the crisis, as wars displace farming communities,
disrupt agricultural activities, and destroy critical infrastructure. Peacebuilding efforts must work
hand in hand with agricultural investments to restore stability and rebuild farming systems
across conflict-affected regions. Additionally, unclear land ownership and tenure issues
prevent smallholder farmers from making long-term investments in sustainable practices.
Establishing secure land tenure systems would encourage farmers to adopt modern methods
and boost productivity.
The African Agri Investment Indaba, set to take place in Cape Town this November, offers a
platform to address these pressing challenges. Organized by the African Agri Council, the
event connects investors, policymakers, and agricultural stakeholders to discuss solutions
aimed at transforming Africa’s food systems. It focuses on critical areas such as funding for
modern equipment, sustainable farming practices, and irrigation infrastructure, with the
ultimate goal of achieving Zero Hunger by 2030.
“Addressing Africa’s food crisis requires more than just financial investment—it demands
tackling systemic issues like corruption, water scarcity, and outdated farming tools,” adds
Leyka. “The Indaba is about connecting the right partners to drive sustainable solutions that
will lead to food security across the continent.”
By promoting collaboration and investment, the African Agri Investment Indaba seeks to
unlock Africa’s agricultural potential, create resilient food systems, and contribute to long-term
solutions to the continent’s food insecurity crisis.
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ABOUT THE AFRICAN AGRI INVESTMENT INDABA (AAII)
The 7th African Agri Investment Indaba (AAII) is the global meeting place for agrifood
investment in Africa. Bringing together over 800 key stakeholders – from governments, banks,
financiers, investors, project owners, project developers, commercial farmers and the agro
and food processing industry – to discuss trends that will likely influence food and agribusiness
economics over the next decade in Africa.
The Agri Indaba delivers a unique mix of decision makers from across the food and agriculture
value chain making it the most effective place to conduct business in the sector.
ABOUT BEN LEYKA
Ben Leyka is the Chief Executive Officer and a Board Member of the African Agri Council
(AAC). The African Agri Council is a Pan-African organization that promotes the development
of African agriculture by facilitating investment into bankable projects across the value chain.
Over the years, Ben has worked with global stakeholders within the public and private sector
across different industries. Working for the Pan African Parliament, African Leadership
Academy and now the African Agri Council, combined with his experience working in the
private sector has allowed him to add his voice to the development of Africa. His love, passion
and commitment towards the development of the African continent is the driver behind his
work at the African Agri Council.
Ben sits on various Advisory Board Committees and he is also involved with the Africa 1st
Initiative as Co-founder and Managing Director, En Action as Vice President: External Affairs
and DRC Invest as Chief Executive Officer – all focusing on the creation and development of
entrepreneurs and conducive business environments in Africa.
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For more information, contact:
African Agri Council (NPC)
Tel: +27 021 300 0360
Websites: www.agricouncil.org