AGRF CONFERENCE RWANDA - 2014
Africa Grows Digital: Forum Explores Sustainable Agri-Food Systems Transformation
The forum themed “GROW DIGITAL: Leveraging Digital Transformation to Drive Sustainable Food Systems in Africa” brought together key stakeholders to address the critical challenges and opportunities within Africa’s rapidly transforming agri-food systems. The forum spotlighted the need for capacity development in response to evolving challenges in agriculture, emphasizing the importance of concerted commitment and increased accountability in building sustainable food systems. Case studies presented underscored the importance of frameworks to support digital adoption across the agricultural value chain, with a focus on enhancing resilience and adaptation to climate change.
Africorp, a prominent agribusiness entity, showcased its innovative approach to integrating digital tools in communication with organic farmers in sourcing regions. The company highlighted its role in supporting the rural sector and addressing challenges faced by private sector firms in the upstream, midstream, and downstream components of the agri-food system. Africorp’s efforts align with the forum’s emphasis on strengthening agriculture’s role in driving food system transformation while addressing climate concerns and boosting nutrition-led agricultural development.
The forum concluded with a strong call to action, advocating for the integration of technology into Africa’s agricultural strategies. Speakers highlighted the sector’s potential to deliver win-win solutions by creating food systems capable of nourishing over two billion people by 2050, aligning with the International Agenda Zero Hunger. As Africa rapidly digitizes, the collective commitment of stakeholders—private sector, civil society, and governments—remains critical to ensuring that digital innovation drives sustainable and inclusive growth across the continent’s agricultural value chain.
