Special Session on Africa
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Transcript Special Session on Africa
The special challenge for Africa
Special Session
on
Africa
The special challenge for Africa
Changing context: renewed optimism
Growth accelerates from early 80s
North & West Africa do well
Less net taxation the cause?
The special challenge for Africa
Changing context …
• Conflict reduced
• Regional institutions ever
stronger
Renewed commitment to
agriculture
• CAADP, AGRA
• Donor promises
• Better business
environment
• Potential of land
• Market opportunities:
Large domestic & regional
Exports, including biofuel
The special challenge for Africa
Facing challenges …
• Challenges:
Widening technology gap
Slow development of markets for inputs, outputs
Slow regional integration
Shortcomings in governance & institutions,
Conflicts
HIV/AIDS and other diseases
Climate change
The special challenge for Africa
… & Realising Opportunities
Policy Pointers
• Macro Policy & Investment climate
↓Remaining net taxation in Africa
Level international playing field
↑Regional integration
• Rural Public Goods: roads to market; ag research &
extension; rural schools & health
• Remedy market failures
… including rural financial systems & reduced risks
• Futures for small farmers
Not all will farm in 20/50 years time
Provide options & livelihoods in rural & urban economy
• Rebuild public capacity
Effective decentralisation
The special challenge for Africa
Discussion points
1.
Why has agricultural performance in much of Africa been
disappointing?
2.
3.
What is potential for Africa to ensure food security?
Potential of smallholder agriculture for agricultural growth &
poverty reduction.
4.
How will transitions in farming affect smallholders?
How should they be assisted?
Priorities for technological change.
5.
What went wrong?
Correcting past mistakes?
Does Africa need a Green Revolution?
What would be the elements?
Institutional & policy changes to support farmers & others in
agri-food value chain. Creating a +ve environment for
investment.