How technology is transforming smallholder farming in Africa

The African continent boasts more than a quarter of the world's arable land, yet traditional farming methods have hindered smallholder farmers from realizing their full potential. With agriculture contributing 15% of the continent's GDP, equivalent to $100 billion annually, the need for technological advancement in farming practices has become increasingly vital. CNBC Africa's Fiona Muthoni sat down for an insightful conversation with Dr. Emmanuel Okogbenin, Director of Programme Development and Commercialisation at AATF, to delve deeper into the transformative power of technology in African agriculture. Smallholder farmers, as Dr. Okogbenin highlighted, are individuals who lack resources and face numerous challenges. Their reliance on subsistence farming and limited access to technologies have impeded their ability to improve productivity and livelihood. To address this, a well-organized system is essential to provide smallholders with access to appropriate technologies tailored to their specific needs. Commercial agriculture plays a crucial role in enhancing productivity and competitiveness among farmers, driving the adoption of innovative solutions. The conversation also touched upon the policy and enabling environment for the development and adoption of agricultural technologies in Africa. Dr. Okogbenin emphasized the importance of regulatory systems to ensure the quality and efficacy of agricultural products, such as fertilizers and seeds. Establishing trust and accountability within the agricultural sector is paramount to fostering farmer confidence in adopting new technologies. Furthermore, the discussion revolved around leveraging existing and emerging technologies, including genetic modification and gene editing, to enhance farming productivity in Africa. Dr. Okogbenin underscored the significance of science, technology, and innovation in addressing challenges such as climate change and resource scarcity. By investing in scientific research and embracing new tools for crop improvement, African farmers can unlock the full potential of their agricultural practices. In conclusion, the conversation shed light on the imperative for African governments to prioritize agriculture and technology as key drivers of economic growth and food security. Embracing a holistic approach that integrates science, business, and policy frameworks is essential to empowering smallholder farmers and ensuring sustainable agricultural development across the continent. By leveraging the transformative power of technology, Africa can pave the way for a more resilient and prosperous agricultural sector.