Nov
13
Agribusiness still ignored in Africa
November 13, 2011 | Leave a Comment
During a presentation at the Vodafone African Business Leaders Forum, several industry professionals spoke about the undiscovered potential of the agribusiness sector in Africa – and urged the youth to turn their attention toward developing it.
“Whether we like it or not, agriculture is still stigmatised in Africa, which is making it difficult to attract youth to the sector,” said Kojo Yankah, chief consultant, Yankah & Associates, Ghana. “The youth have a critical opportunity to play a role in its development, but young graduates are not thinking about it as an option.”
Indeed, the agribusiness sector in Africa has been pivotal in developing the economy of many countries, but the sector has not been given much prominence in its promotion and development. As the speakers highlighted, it is a viable tool in driving economic growth and creating employment.
“Agribusiness in Africa requires modernisation, and new mind sets,” added Yankah. “There’s great potential in agribusiness for the youth, but only if mindsets change now.”
“We need to build capacity through training, and through changing attitudes,” agreed Diana A. Kolek, East Africa Representative, YALDA International, Kenya. “It’s all about getting out there and doing something about solving the problems in the sector. All the research and information young people need is available to do it.”
According to the panel, 60% of land in Africa is uncultivated – but is actually suitable for farming. This land is being ignored to the detriment of the continent’s development.