Advancing agritech solutions to global food & nutrition security

Agricultural productivity plays a critical role in meeting the food needs of an expanding global population. Despite this importance, Africa's agriculture has encountered significant challenges over the years, leaving the agriculture sector vulnerable within the global food system. Addressing these challenges requires the advancement of agricultural technology and the utilization of innovative approaches. To help drive this conversation CNBC Africa is joined by Canisius Kanangire, Executive Director, African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF). Kanangire highlights three major challenges facing agriculture in the sub-Saharan African region. Firstly, the issue of productivity due to varieties not well adapted to high yield. Secondly, the vulnerability of varieties to diseases and insects. Thirdly, the lack of adaptation to climate change, particularly drought. He emphasizes that the technology being promoted offers solutions to these challenges by providing high-yield, disease-resistant, and drought-tolerant varieties to farmers, ultimately enhancing food security on the continent. When discussing the challenges of adopting new agricultural technologies in developing African countries, Kanangire points out two key obstacles. Firstly, the accessibility of technologies due to high costs and intellectual property restrictions, making it difficult for smallholder farmers to benefit from them. Secondly, the lack of knowledge and awareness among farmers, many of whom may not be highly educated, highlighting the importance of communicating scientific knowledge in accessible ways and providing capacity-building support. Moreover, Kanangire addresses the issue of policy and regulatory frameworks, stressing the importance of functional policies that facilitate the acceptance and implementation of new technologies. He acknowledges that very few countries have effective policies in place and emphasizes the need to enhance institutional capacity and streamline the approval process for new agricultural products. In terms of environmental sustainability, Kanangire emphasizes that all technologies undergo rigorous testing to ensure they are safe for human and animal consumption, as well as environmentally friendly. He highlights the positive impact of technologies such as insect-resistant products, which reduce the need for pesticide sprays, benefiting both the environment and the health of farmers. Overall, the AATF is dedicated to promoting agricultural technologies that address key challenges in African agriculture while ensuring environmental sustainability and promoting food security. By overcoming barriers to technology adoption and advocating for supportive policies, the organization aims to drive agricultural transformation in the region and enhance the livelihoods of smallholder farmers.