Africa Must Lead in Agricultural Technology Development
Senator Abubakar Kyari, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, has urged African nations to spearhead the development of their own agricultural technologies. He emphasized that achieving sustainable food security across the continent will heavily rely on advancements in science, innovation, and knowledge.
Call to Action at Agricultural Science Week
Kyari made this impassioned call during the 9th African Agricultural Science Week (AASW) and the 10th African Agricultural Research Forum (FARA) General Assembly held in Abuja.
Reducing Dependence on Imported Technologies
The Minister articulated the need for Africa to shift away from its reliance on imported agricultural technologies and instead become a global nexus for innovation that is adapted to local environmental conditions, production systems, and developmental needs.
The Value of Knowledge in Modern Agriculture
Highlighting the crucial role of knowledge as the most valuable resource in contemporary agriculture, Mr. Kyari stated that integrating science, technology, and innovation is vital for the transformation of the agricultural sector on the continent.
Government Commitment to Agricultural Modernization
He reiterated that agriculture is a cornerstone of the Federal Government’s “New Hope” agenda, noting that food security is intrinsically tied to national security, economic growth, and social stability. The Minister outlined various government initiatives aimed at modernizing agriculture, including investments in irrigation systems, mechanization, digital agriculture, agro-industrial development, and facilitating access to agricultural finance.
Leveraging Emerging Technologies
Kyari underscored the importance of emerging technologies—ranging from artificial intelligence and satellite applications to biotechnology and data science—as pivotal to the future of agriculture in Africa.
Research Institutions Urged to Deliver Practical Solutions
He urged research institutions across the continent to ensure that their findings extend beyond academic publications and yield tangible benefits for farmers and the economy. Emphasizing the critical nature of research, he noted that it should focus on enhancing productivity, generating jobs, fostering business development, and bolstering the resilience of rural communities against climate change.
Opportunities for Agricultural Transformation
Hosting both the Africa Agricultural Science Week and the FARA General Assembly provides Nigeria and the broader continent with a unique opportunity to explore new pathways for agricultural transformation through scientific research and strategic collaborations. He expressed gratitude to FARA for selecting Nigeria as the event’s venue and acknowledged the contributions of researchers, scientists, development partners, and delegations across Africa in promoting agricultural innovation.
Commitment to Sustainable Livestock Development
Similarly, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, the Minister of Livestock Development, discussed the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, highlighting Nigeria’s commitment to enhancing the livestock sector for sustainable growth. He elaborated on the ministry’s National Livestock Growth Acceleration Strategy aimed at developing sustainable production systems, expanding infrastructure, enhancing value chains, and improving animal health services.
Investment Opportunities in Livestock Sector
Maiha called upon private investors, development partners, and the scientific community to explore investment opportunities across various aspects of livestock—from production and processing to storage, logistics, feed production, and veterinary medicine. He stressed that scientific innovation is essential for developing improved livestock breeds and strengthening disease surveillance, while promoting climate-smart livestock production to meet Nigeria’s rising demand for animal protein.
Setting Priorities for Agricultural Innovation
Ms. Bongiwe Njobe, Chair of the FARA Board of Directors, characterized the conference as an important platform for prioritizing agricultural science, technology, and innovation in Africa. She noted that the event occurred at a time when climate change, food insecurity, and environmental degradation pose significant threats to livelihoods across the continent. Njobe called for greater investment by governments, research institutions, development partners, and the private sector in inclusive innovations that benefit women, youth, and vulnerable groups, while strengthening institutional capacities to facilitate agricultural transformation in Africa.
