Transformation of the Agricultural Sector: A Strategic Tool For Africa’s Development

Abstract

The year 2008 had its fair share of woes, what with natural disasters and the financial crisis that led to a near world-wide recession in the economy. In the midst of all these, a pressing issue came to light – the rising prices of food which reached a record high, sparking a food crisis that had been several years in the making. With both the developed and developing countries struggling to make ends meet in regards to food provision, the agricultural sector’s importance became apparent. The developed world sought to make partnerships with countries that have a strong agricultural sector, or the potential for it. The African continent came under the spotlight, for as much as she is developing, plenty of arable land is still available, and the potential to be the world’s food basket is today under serious scrutiny and consideration by all stakeholders. This paper  takes a critical look at the agricultural sector in Africa; its past, the present scale of activities, and to find out what, if anything, went wrong in the pursuit to become a powerhouse in the field. In conclusion, the paper provides recommendations for the way forward on how agriculture can be harnessed as a powerful  tool for development in Africa.

Keywords: Agriculture; Africa’s Development; Food Sufficiency; Inorganic Fertilisers; Agricultural Transformation