Large-Scale Adoption of Innovations Key to Transforming Africa’s Food Systems
Rapidly changing global circumstances, including population growth, urbanization, and climate change, demand a swift transformation of Africa’s Agri-food systems to ensure sustainable and equitable food production.
This was emphasized by Andre de Jager, Director of Technical Expertise at SNV, in a recent statement highlighting the critical need for innovative agricultural practices across the continent.
De Jager noted that Africa’s Agri-food systems are particularly vulnerable to climate impacts, with agricultural activities contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions.
In response, SNV is advocating for the widespread adoption of regenerative agriculture, a set of practices aimed at restoring ecosystems’ health, resilience, and biodiversity.
This approach emphasizes soil health, biodiversity enhancement, water management, and the use of renewable energy as foundations for sustainable food systems.
“Regenerative agriculture has gained renewed traction as a global framework guiding the transition of Agri-food systems,” said de Jager. “Through collaborative efforts with local researchers, international institutions, and private sector players, we’ve been able to co-create context-specific technologies and practices that significantly boost productivity and food security.”
SNV, in partnership with the IKEA Foundation and other stakeholders, has implemented the Regenerative Agricultural Practices for Improved Livelihoods and Markets (REALMS) project across Africa. Over the past four years, this project has created an enabling environment for regenerative agriculture on more than 10,000 farms.
The initiative has also addressed systemic challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, limited access to finance, and regulatory barriers, which are crucial for scaling up innovations in the agricultural sector.
De Jager called on governments, development partners, Civil Society Organisations, and other stakeholders to foster supportive policy environments that encourage investment in agricultural technology and innovation.
“By integrating these elements into a cohesive strategy, we can build more resilient and efficient food systems that not only meet current needs but also enable sustainable growth,” he added.
SNV will showcase its experience in implementing evidence-based agricultural solutions, particularly in regenerative agriculture, at the 2024 Africa Food Systems Forum in Kigali, Rwanda.
