Africa’s agricultural sector, while rich in potential, continues to grapple with numerous challenges that hinder the continent’s journey towards food self-sufficiency. From limited access to modern farming techniques to inadequate infrastructure, the obstacles are significant. However, just as mechanization drove the Industrial Revolution, digital technology in today’s Fourth Industrial Revolution presents a transformative opportunity for agriculture. Ethiopia is at the forefront of this digital revolution, having officially launched its ambitious Digital Agriculture Roadmap (DAR) on Tuesday.
The DAR, a national plan developed by the Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with the Agricultural Transformation Institute (ATI), aims to accelerate the digitalization of the agricultural sector from 2025 to 2032. Agriculture Minister Girma Amente outlined the strategy, which focuses on enhancing agricultural productivity through inclusive, accessible, and sustainable digital solutions. The roadmap is designed to facilitate access to agricultural extension services via smartphones, improve input availability, strengthen financial services such as loans and agricultural insurance, and enhance coordination across the entire value chain, from production to commercialization.
The implementation of the DAR will occur in two distinct phases. The first phase, spanning from 2025 to 2029, will concentrate on establishing basic digital infrastructure and developing priority services for agriculture. This foundational work is crucial for setting the stage for more advanced digital initiatives. The second phase, from 2030 to 2032, aims to expand and diversify the digital ecosystem across the sector, building on the infrastructure laid down in the initial phase.
However, the journey towards digital transformation in Ethiopia’s agricultural sector is not without its challenges. Limited connectivity and a lack of digital skills are significant hurdles that could slow the adoption of new technologies. According to the GSMA report, Driving Digital Transformation of the Economy in Ethiopia: Opportunities, Policy Reforms and the Role of Mobile, published in October 2024, 76% of Ethiopians still do not use mobile internet. Furthermore, smartphone penetration, a key tool for the DAR, stands at just 36%. The report also rates the population’s proficiency in basic digital skills at 41 out of 100.
Despite these challenges, the DAR represents a bold step towards leveraging technology to revolutionize Ethiopia’s agricultural sector. By embracing digital solutions, Ethiopia aims to not only enhance productivity but also create a more resilient and sustainable agricultural ecosystem. The success of this initiative could serve as a model for other African countries, demonstrating the potential of digital technology to drive agricultural transformation and contribute to food security across the continent.
