#AGRF2020: Finding solutions to agriculture challenges faced by African farmers

Agriculture in Africa faces a multitude of challenges including poor infrastructure, diseases, weather stresses, and unfavorable policies. These challenges have been at the forefront of discussions at the African Green Revolution Forum Summit. CNBC Africa's Stephen Muvunyi recently sat down with Francois Nsengiyumva, the Chairperson of the Chamber of Agriculture and Livestock at Rwanda's Private Sector Federation to delve deeper into these issues. Nsengiyumva emphasized the need for a shift in mindset towards viewing agriculture as a profitable business rather than just subsistence farming. He stressed the importance of efficient management, proper investment, and a focus on post-harvest processes to reduce losses and increase profits. Nsengiyumva highlighted the role of governments in creating conducive policies, programs, and infrastructure to support agricultural development, and called for farmers to take ownership of their businesses and not rely solely on external support. The interview also touched upon the challenges of cross-border trade and the need for African governments to collaborate harmoniously to facilitate smoother trade relations. Nsengiyumva's positive outlook on the future of African agriculture was evident as he emphasized the need for better organization and collaboration among farmers to maximize the opportunities provided by governments. However, the issue of financing remains a concern for many farmers, with Nsengiyumva acknowledging the lack of understanding from traditional financial institutions and advocating for dedicated financial institutions tailored to the unique needs of the agricultural sector. The conversation shed light on the complexities and opportunities within the African agricultural landscape, underscoring the importance of innovation, collaboration, and targeted support to overcome existing challenges and drive sustainable growth.