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:
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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?
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What is potential for Africa to ensure food security?
Potential of smallholder agriculture for agricultural growth &
poverty reduction.
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4.
How will transitions in farming affect smallholders?
How should they be assisted?
Priorities for technological change.
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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.