Oxford Business Group's latest Focus Report explores the role of female and youth-focused initiatives in cultivating innovation and inclusive growth within Africa’s agricultural landscape
Casablanca, December 2023: Oxford Business Group (OBG) unveils the fourth edition of the focus report titled, "Agriculture in Africa 2023" produced in collaboration with OCP Group, the world’s largest phosphate-based fertilizer producer. This comprehensive report sheds light on the profound changes occurring in the African agricultural landscape, spotlighting local communities, youth empowerment, and gender equality as the driving forces behind an era of inclusive growth.
Africa's agricultural landscape has undergone significant transformation since 2000, with cultivated land expansion accounting for 52% of the global increase and Sub-Saharan Africa recording the highest rate of growth in agricultural production value of any region at 4.3%. "Agriculture in Africa 2023" underscores the importance of transitioning to knowledge-based farming systems and highlights initiatives from various organisations across different subsegments that are paving the way for sustainable and productive growth.
The report delves into sustainable farming practices, exploring their impact on agricultural growth. It also highlights the role of technology and innovation in shaping the future of African agriculture. The report emphasises initiatives aimed at empowering farmers, particularly women, and addressing gender-based financing disparities. Additionally, it discusses youth-focused programs, entrepreneurship initiatives, and education and training opportunities in the agricultural sector.
Karine Loehman, OBG’s Managing Director for Africa, noted that “Agriculture in Africa” stands as a strategic instrument, furnishing tangible directives for harnessing digitalisation, empowering the youth, and promoting gender equality – all integral elements shaping the trajectory of African agriculture.
“We delve into a variety of key aspects such as sustainable farming practices, market access, technological innovation, and socio-economic inclusivity. By offering insights and strategies in these areas, we aim to empower governments, businesses, and organisations with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed decisions and capitalise on the vast potential that African agriculture holds,” she added.
The report also includes in-depth case studies, such as rural radio stations in Togo, showcasing successful models and strategies that are contributing to the inclusive and sustainable growth of the agricultural sector. It also includes various interviews including: Abebe Haile-Gabriel Assistant, Director-General and Regional Representative for Africa Food and Agriculture Organization, United Nations; Hassina Moukhariq Director of International Development, OCP Foundation; and Bernard Hien, Regional Director, West and Central Africa Division, International Fund for Agricultural Development.
A short illustrative video will follow the publication of the report, illustrating its scope and key findings, and will also be available on OBG’s research terminal, its social media channels, and on an array of other independent platforms, such as the Bloomberg Terminal.
The fourth edition of “Agriculture in Africa” is now available to view and download at:
About Oxford Business Group
Oxford Business Group (OBG) is a global research and advisory company with a presence in over 30 countries, spanning Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas. It is recognised internationally as a distinctive and respected provider of on-the-ground intelligence on world’s fastest-growing markets, termed The Yellow Slice, in reference to OBG’s corporate colour.
Through its range of products - Economic News and Views; OBG CEO Surveys; OBG Events and Conferences; Global Platform, which hosts exclusive video interviews; and The Report publications – as well as its Advisory division, OBG offers comprehensive and accurate analysis of macroeconomic and sector-level developments for sound investment opportunities and business decisions.
OBG provides business intelligence to its subscribers through multiple platforms, including its direct subscribers, Dow Jones Factiva subscribers, the Bloomberg Professional Services subscribers, Refinitiv’s (previously Thomson Reuters) Eikon subscriber
