Building Africa together post aid cuts

African countries are facing a critical revaluation of their development priorities in the wake of funding cuts, particularly in the agricultural sector, which serves as the continent's economic backbone. Dr. Ibrahim Mayaki, the African Union Special Envoy on Food Systems, shared valuable insights on the strategies being considered to mitigate the impact of the aid freeze during an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa. The continent's reliance on agriculture for sustenance and economic growth has prompted a focused approach towards supporting small-scale farmers, who play a vital role in producing 80% of the food consumed across Africa. Dr. Mayaki highlighted that Africa has been proactively prioritizing agricultural transformation since 2000, following structural adjustments that necessitated cuts in social spending and resource allocation to the agricultural sector. Despite the challenges posed by aid cuts and Official Development Assistance (ODA), countries that diversified their revenue sources and managed macroeconomic indicators effectively are better positioned to weather the storm. However, nations reliant on external aid must reassess their development strategies and bolster support for small-scale farmers to enhance resilience. The conversation delved into the pivotal role of the African Union in guiding member states towards adequate investment in agricultural value chains. Dr. Mayaki emphasized the need for a holistic approach to agriculture, highlighting its multi-sectoral nature with intertwined dependencies on energy, infrastructure, and rural connectivity. Noting the imperative to invest in food systems, especially amidst a projected doubling of Africa's population by 2050, he stressed the significance of supporting small-scale farmers to drive entrepreneurship and enhance regional cooperation. As African countries strive towards achieving food self-sufficiency, key frameworks such as the Comprehensive Africa Agricultural Development Programme and the Continental Free Trade Agreement are playing crucial roles in shaping the continent's agricultural landscape. Dr. Mayaki underscored the importance of connecting food systems, infrastructure, and intra-Africa trade to facilitate sustainable growth and elevate agricultural production. He further emphasized the essential role of science and technological innovation in equipping small-scale farmers with the tools needed to navigate challenges presented by climate change. In addressing the looming question of whether Africa is on track to feed itself in the coming decade, Dr. Mayaki highlighted the need to navigate urbanization trends that are altering consumption patterns and increasing reliance on imported food. By aligning agricultural production with urban demands and leveraging frameworks for agricultural development and trade integration, Africa stands poised to enhance food security and resilience in the face of evolving challenges. The path towards agricultural self-sufficiency in Africa is paved with challenges, but with a concerted focus on supporting small-scale farmers, enhancing investment in food systems, and fostering regional cooperation, the continent is poised to chart a sustainable course towards food security and economic empowerment.