Agri-Business Boom in 1,000 with New Processing Plant in Nairobi

African leaders have intensified calls for increased investment in the continent’s agricultural sector, urging governments, development partners, and private investors to prioritise agriculture as a core driver of economic growth. The appeal was made during a high-level AATF roundtable convened on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80) in New York, where leaders emphasized that Africa cannot achieve sustainable development without bold, Africa-led solutions for food security and climate resilience. Delegates highlighted the need for modern technologies, stronger partnerships, and targeted financing to unlock the continent’s vast agricultural potential.
Speaking at the forum, H.E. Moses Vilakati, the African Union Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Development, stressed the importance of making agriculture more appealing to young people. He urged African governments to integrate emerging technologies—such as Artificial Intelligence, digital platforms, and precision tools—into farming systems to boost productivity and create futuristic value chains. Vilakati noted that Africa’s natural assets, including expansive arable land and a vibrant youthful population, provide the foundation for a thriving agricultural economy if supported by sustained innovation. Likewise, H.E. Prof. Muhammadou M. O. Kah, AATF Board Trustee and ambassador to the UN in Geneva, highlighted the rapid transformation underway in African food systems, noting that the continent offers significant opportunities for investors seeking both commercial returns and social impact.
Panellists also stressed that investment in climate-smart solutions is essential as the continent grapples with rising temperatures, pests, and shifting weather patterns. Prof. Kah underscored that Africa must prioritise technologies that directly address community needs—from boosting food and nutrition security to strengthening resilience against recurring droughts. Martin Davies, Global Head of Nuveen Natural Capital, added that although Africa’s potential is enormous, limited access to capital remains a key barrier to scaling innovations and supporting smallholder farmers. Leaders agreed that favourable regulatory frameworks, harmonised policies, and supportive legislation are vital to accelerating the adoption of agricultural technologies.
Looking ahead, the roundtable concluded that Africa’s agricultural renaissance will depend on sustained political will, coordinated investment, and local innovation ecosystems that empower farmers and agribusinesses. Participants expressed optimism that with modernised value chains, stronger institutions, and a renewed focus on technology, the continent could achieve food sovereignty and set a global benchmark for sustainable, inclusive agricultural growth.