The African Union (AU) has unveiled an ambitious 10-year strategy aimed at transforming agriculture across the continent.
The Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) Strategy and Action Plan (2026–2035) was launched during a summit in Kampala, Uganda, and promises to tackle challenges like climate change, food insecurity, and economic instability.
Speaking at the summit, Uganda’s Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Frank Tumwebaze, stressed the importance of execution. “We must move beyond planning into implementation. These strategies must deliver real change for our people,” he said.
The summit brought together ministers from all 55 AU member states, along with policymakers, researchers, and representatives from farming communities.
Discussions focused on key obstacles to agricultural growth, including limited investment, outdated farming techniques, and underutilized arable land.
A Call to action for Africa’s potential
Africa’s population is projected to reach 2.5 billion by 2050, creating a pressing need to address skyrocketing food demand.
With a $100 billion annual food import bill, many leaders feel a sense of urgency to harness Africa’s agricultural potential.
Ugandan Vice President Jessica Alupo highlighted the irony of Africa’s situation, given the continent’s abundant resources. “Africa has fertile soils, fresh water, and a young workforce. Yet we struggle to feed ourselves. This summit must provide actionable solutions to reverse this trend,” she said.
The strategy emphasizes building climate-resilient agricultural systems, improving infrastructure, and reducing food waste.
Inclusivity is also a key focus, with plans to empower women, youth, and marginalized groups through access to resources and training.
Building on past Initiatives with a renewed vision
The 2026–2035 plan aligns with the AU’s Agenda 2063, a broader vision for a prosperous and self-reliant Africa. It also builds on the Malabo Declaration, a 2014 commitment to accelerate agricultural growth.
However, progress has been slow. Despite two decades of CAADP initiatives, the AU admits many targets remain unmet.
Estherine Fotabong, from the AU Development Agency, believes the new strategy marks a turning point. “This isn’t just another plan. It’s a continent-led effort to create sustainable and inclusive food systems,” she said.
Ethiopia’s Minister of Agriculture, H.E. Dr. Girma Amente, shared his country’s successes in integrating CAADP into its national policies.
Ethiopia has boosted agricultural investment, leading to consistent improvements in crop yields and resilience against climate shocks.
The summit will conclude with the Kampala Declaration, a formal commitment by AU member states to adopt the strategy.
Leaders hope it will provide a clear roadmap for addressing Africa’s food security challenges while boosting economic growth.
The road ahead won’t be easy. Climate change, conflicts, and population growth continue to strain Africa’s food systems.
Yet there is optimism that with the right investment and cooperation, the continent can achieve agricultural self-sufficiency.
For Uganda’s Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, the message is clear: “Our future depends on our ability to feed ourselves. Let this strategy be the catalyst for a brighter, more sustainable future for Africa.”
