At the 8th Africa Agri-Expo held in Nairobi, Kenya, on Wednesday and Thursday, an agricultural drone took center stage, symbolizing a pivotal moment in the continent’s agricultural narrative. The expo, a biennial event, is a platform for promoting the adoption of technology in agriculture, a sector that employs nearly 60% of the workforce in Sub-Saharan Africa, according to the International Labour Organization. Despite its significance, agricultural productivity in Africa lags behind other regions, a gap that experts believe can be bridged through digital technologies.
The expo brought together exhibitors and agriculture experts who acknowledged Africa’s slow pace in adopting technology for innovative farming techniques, data-driven agriculture, and sustainable practices. The event underscored the need for an accelerated uptake of technology to enhance food security, nutrition, and sustainable agriculture.
Juma Mukhwana, Kenya’s principal secretary in the Ministry of Industry, highlighted the minimal uptake of technology in the agricultural sector. He emphasized that small-scale farming, which is the backbone of many African economies, should be the focal point for integrating technology and agriculture. Mukhwana noted that small-scale farming generates employment, ensures food security, and drives innovation. He assured that the Kenyan government will continue to foster partnerships with farmers and investors, promoting the development and adoption of new technologies through policies that encourage research and innovation.
Eric Kimunguyi, the chief executive officer of the Agrochemicals Association of Kenya, suggested a phased approach to technology adoption. He proposed starting with small-scale initiatives targeting farmers and gradually scaling up to large-scale applications. This approach could make technology more accessible and affordable, ensuring that even the smallest farmers can benefit from technological advancements.
The expo served as a reminder of the transformative potential of technology in Africa’s agriculture sector. By embracing digital technologies, Africa can revolutionize its food systems, improve productivity, and enhance food security. The event also highlighted the need for collaborative efforts between governments, farmers, and investors to drive this technological revolution. As Africa continues to grapple with food security challenges, the adoption of technology in agriculture offers a promising path forward.
