By Reinhard Lotz
The African Agri Investment Indaba (AAII24), the largest agriculture investment conference in Africa, will showcase the role of government and innovation in transforming the continent’s agricultural sector, featuring country-specific examples. Taking place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre from 20-22 November, the Indaba will bring together policymakers, industry leaders, and key stakeholders to share insights and form partnerships aimed at driving sustainable agricultural development.
Recent findings by the World Economic Forum highlight the successes of countries like Ethiopia and Ghana, where targeted research and modern agricultural technologies have significantly enhanced crop yields and farmer resilience. These examples underscore the importance of coordinated efforts in agricultural transformation, facilitated by presidential-level councils that oversee the implementation of comprehensive development strategies. These councils ensure effective collaboration among government agencies, private sector players, and international organizations.
“Governments play a key role in shaping the future of agriculture in Africa. Their involvement is crucial for creating an environment that supports innovation, investment, and sustainable practices,” said Ben Leyka, CEO of the African Agri Council NPC. “The African Agri Investment Indaba is the perfect platform for policymakers to engage with industry leaders, share insights, and form partnerships that will drive the transformation of our agricultural sector.”
Ghana’s integration of modern agricultural techniques in 2023, which boosted aggregate cereal production, exemplifies the impact of such innovations. Additionally, climate-smart agriculture (CSA) has emerged as a viable path for sustainable agricultural development. The African Union Development Agency-NEPAD (AUDA-NEPAD) has been at the forefront of promoting CSA practices, emphasizing the need for practical tools and policies to build resilient food systems. By adopting CSA approaches, countries can improve food security, enhance farmer resilience, and mitigate climate change impacts.
Moreover, the concept of agricultural growth poles and corridors is gaining traction as a strategy to attract private investment and promote agro-industrial development. These initiatives span extensive land areas across multiple countries, aiming to boost production, generate employment, and support economic growth. Effective implementation of these strategies requires robust policies and sustainable practices to ensure that investments benefit local communities and the environment.
“Government involvement is essential for the success of agricultural initiatives across the continent. By participating in the African Agri Investment Indaba, government officials can gain valuable insights into effective strategies and collaborate with key stakeholders to accelerate agricultural development,” said Manuel Singano, Membership Director of the African Agri Council. “Our goal is to create a platform where ideas and policies converge to build a thriving agricultural ecosystem.”
About African Agri Investment Indaba
The African Agri Investment Indaba (AAII) is the largest agriculture investment conference in Africa, providing a platform for stakeholders to connect, collaborate, and drive the growth of the agricultural sector. The Indaba is organized by the African Agri Council NPC, a network dedicated to fostering agricultural development across the continent. This year’s event will feature over 600 participants, 60+ speakers, and 70+ exhibitors from more than 40 countries, all committed to advancing Africa’s agricultural landscape.
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For more information, contact Reinhard Lotz , Marketing Director of the African Agri Council on reinhard.lotz@agricouncil.org or visit www.agri-indaba.com