ESAFF Headquarters’ Post

We are thrilled to have witnessed the historic signing of the $491.75 million Zambia Farm to Market Compact between the USA and Zambia. This monumental agreement is made possible through a generous $458.8 million grant from the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), complemented by a $33 million contribution from the Zambian government. This landmark Compact, is set to revolutionize the agricultural and agro-processing industries, representing a significant step forward in promoting sustainable growth in the sector.   The compact encompasses four transformative projects aimed at bolstering Zambia’s agriculture and agro-processing sectors, paving the way for sustainable growth and development.   Corpus Legal Practitioners was represented by our Partner and Head of Corporate Advisory, Jackie Jhala, accompanied by two Associates from the Corporate Advisory department; Christine Mwambazi Mukuka and Dalitso Ng'ona.   Together, we are fostering progress and development in Zambia’s agricultural landscape. #Corpus #Agriculture #EconomicGrowth #SustainableDevelopment #MillenniumChallengeCorporation #FarmToMarket #AgroProcessing

Excited to share a journal publication from the esteemed @Pilaf which I partook of. It is a culmination of dedicated research in rural development. Titled "Determinants of Profitability among Agriculture Equipment Fabricators in Oyo State, Nigeria," this article is featured in the Annual Journal of Agriculture Extension, marking a significant milestone in our ongoing exploration of agricultural development. This publication sheds light on critical issues affecting food security and agricultural productivity across African landscapes. Our investigation reveals the pressing challenges hindering agricultural advancement, primarily due to factors like climate change, land degradation, and the limited use of mechanization. The insights emphasize the urgent need for sustainable agriculture practices while exploring the multifaceted role of research and technology in fostering agricultural growth. A core aspect of our findings advocates for robust investments in agriculture from both public and private sectors. This is crucial to empower smallholder farmers and enhance rural livelihoods. Furthermore, the article underlines the importance of implementing policies designed to promote sustainable agriculture, thereby increasing farmers' access to essential resources. As we navigate the complexities of ensuring food security in Africa, this research offers pivotal strategies and recommendations to overcome existing barriers and unlock the potential of the agricultural sector. I invite you to delve into the full article and join the conversation on advancing sustainable agricultural practices in Africa. Your thoughts and insights are invaluable as we work towards a more food-secure future. Access the journal here: [https://lnkd.in/djRn4tNM) #AgriculturalDevelopment #FoodSecurity #SustainableAgriculture #RuralDevelopment #ResearchPublication

Twenty years ago, African leaders launched the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) to transform agriculture and boost economic growth. Now, as we approach the end of the Malabo Declaration era (2015-2025), stakeholders are shaping the next decade of African agricultural policy. The recent SADC regional consultations in Zambia marked an important step in this process. Here are some key takeaways: 🔵 Progress made in implementing Malabo commitments, with room for improvement 🔵 Focus on supporting smallholder farmers as drivers of agricultural success 🔵 Emphasis on regional collaboration and knowledge sharing 🔵 Need for alignment between CAADP strategies and national development plans 🔵 Looking ahead: integrating new technologies and evolving towards agri-food systems approach 🔗 https://lnkd.in/dcfMgeb3 #AfricanAgriculture #CAADPPostMalabo #SustainableDevelopment #Agenda2063

Eastern Africa Consultations on CAADP Post Malabo Agenda I am glad to have been part of the pivotal Regional Technical-Level Consultation on the CAADP Post Malabo Agenda! Held from May 21st to 23rd, 2024, in Nairobi, this important event was led by COMESA, EAC, and IGAD. It brought together Member States and key stakeholders to shape the future of agriculture in Africa. These consultations are instrumental in developing the 3rd CAADP Declaration, also known as the Kampala Declaration 2025. I was pleased to hear about stakeholder commitment to various areas for Africa’s agricultural transformation. In particular, crafting strategic interventions to ensure inclusion and equality in the agri-food system, addressing critical issues beyond food security such as food safety, health and nutrition, and the protection of farmers’ rights and farmer-led seed systems for nutritious and climate-resilient crops. Together, we are paving the way for an inclusive, sustainable, and resilient agricultural sector in Africa! I am looking forward to providing further input through the technical working groups. CABI African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD) Annet Abenakyo Mulema African Union Development Agency-NEPAD #CAADP #NEPAD #Agriculture #COMESA #EAC #IGAD #FoodSafety #genderequality #FarmersRights

🌍 Putting People First: The Impact of Participatory Monitoring & Evaluation on Sustainable Development in Uganda At Hanns R. Neumann Stiftung (HRNS), we believe that sustainable development starts with inclusive participation. Our Participatory Monitoring & Evaluation (PM&E) approach in Uganda is a testament to this belief. Unlike traditional M&E, which often excludes the perspectives of those on the ground, PM&E actively involves smallholder farmers and local stakeholders in every step of the evaluation process.🌱📝 This hands-on approach ensures that our projects are more reflective of local needs and realities, leading to more effective and sustainable outcomes. For example, the adoption rate of good agricultural practices has soared above 60% in our current projects using PM&E, compared to below 50% in previous projects.📈 By engaging directly with the community, we build trust, foster ownership, and enhance the capacity for self-assessment and collective learning. The results are not just numbers but stories of real change and empowerment.💪 You can find the complete Blogpost in our bio! 🔗 #SustainableDevelopment #ParticipatoryEvaluation #CommunityEngagement #HRNS #Uganda #Agriculture #DevelopmentImpact

The Future of Agricultural Investment in Africa: Opportunities and Challenges As global food demand rises, Africa’s agricultural sector presents a unique opportunity for investors. With its vast fertile land and growing market, the continent is poised to become a hub for sustainable agricultural practices. However, navigating this space requires deep local knowledge and strategic foresight. Here are some key factors to consider when investing in African agriculture: Land Availability & Fertility: Africa offers abundant agricultural land, especially for cash crops like coffee and cassava. Investors should seek regions with fertile soils and favorable climates for sustainable yield. Market Demand & Export Potential: The global appetite for African agricultural products is growing. For instance, coffee estates in Kenya are attracting foreign investors due to high demand in export markets. Understanding market trends is crucial to maximizing returns. Challenges to Address: From infrastructure gaps to local regulations, agricultural investments in Africa come with unique challenges. Partnering with local experts ensures ethical, smooth transactions and long-term success. As someone actively involved in both real estate and agricultural investments in Kenya, I've seen firsthand how impactful strategic planning can be. My current work involves assisting investors in securing large tracts of land for agriculture while ensuring ethical practices in the process. If you're looking to explore opportunities in African agriculture or want to discuss investment strategies, feel free to reach out! #AgricultureInvestment #RealEstateAfrica #SustainableFarming #Kenya #LandAcquisition

𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐧 𝐙𝐢𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐛𝐰𝐞? Will $20 million boost the agricultural sector? In case you've missed it: The government is taking a significant step by distributing $20 million in compensation to local black and foreign white farmers. - This initiative seeks to rectify the consequences of land seizures that occurred over two decades ago. - It aims to revive the agricultural sector, which has faced serious decline since the early 2000s. Now, consider the implications of this move: - It acknowledges the historical challenges faced by both black and white farmers. - It seeks to rebuild trust within the agricultural community. It lays the groundwork for future investment in Zimbabwe’s economy. - This decision emphasises the need to address past grievances for a sustainable future. The question is: how will this compensation reshape the agricultural landscape? (The answer could be transformative) It opens the door for collaboration and investment. I’m not talking about: Quick fixes that overlook the complexities of the situation. I’m talking about: Genuine efforts to foster a balanced and thriving agricultural sector that benefits all stakeholders. What do you think about this decision? #ZimbabweAgriculture #InvestingInAfrica

The future of African seed and food security can only get more secure with such engagements.

🌱🌍 Exciting News in Agricultural Development! 🌍🌱 Since 2019, the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) in Uganda, spearheading the National Oil Palm Project, has been leading a remarkable journey towards inclusive rural transformation through oil palm production across Uganda. Embarking on this transformative mission, MAAIF initially focused its efforts in the Kalangala region, catalyzing change through the Vegetable Oil Development Project phases I and II. Witnessing the success and impact in Kalangala, the project has now set its sights on expanding its reach to other vital hubs such as Buvuma, Mayuge, and Masaka. What's truly inspiring about this initiative is its commitment to inclusivity and empowerment. With a visionary approach, MAAIF secured a substantial USD 75.8 million loan from the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). This funding isn't just about numbers; it's about creating meaningful opportunities for the community. The aim? To positively impact over 30,000 beneficiary households, with a deliberate focus on uplifting women (30%) and youth (40%). This isn't just about agriculture; it's about catalyzing holistic change, fostering economic empowerment, and paving the way for a brighter future for Uganda's rural communities. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to sow the seeds of progress and prosperity across Uganda! 🌟🌿 #AgriculturalDevelopment #InclusiveGrowth #CommunityEmpowerment #MAAIF #IFAD #UgandaGrowth #Sustainability

Encouraging Agrarian Women: She Farms Africa's First Town Hall Wonderful updates from She Farms Africa! Our inaugural community gathering with rural farmers was conducted recently, and it was an amazing event full of thought-provoking conversations and mutual learning. The meeting's highlights were: 1. Eco-Friendly Agriculture Methods: We delved into specific techniques such as organic farming, crop rotation, and water conservation. These methods, among others, were discussed as creative ways to protect the environment and increase crop production. Farmers were enthusiastic about implementing these techniques that offered increased sustainability and production. 2. Market Access: One of the main discussion topics, which holds great potential for improving your livelihoods and expanding your reach, was how to increase access to domestic and foreign markets. We discussed ways to link growers and consumers and guarantee fair prices for your produce. 3. Financial Literacy: Educating farmers about investment alternatives and money management is critical. We discussed specific savings plans like the 'Susu' system and micro-lending options like 'Esusu'. We also explored how to expand; they reinvest in their crops, including diversifying income sources and managing cash flow. 4.Community Building: One of the main objectives was to fortify the ties among farmers. We discussed how to create a helpful group of people who can exchange information, skills, and experiences. Why This Is Important At She Farms Africa, the foundation of sustainable agricultural development is the empowerment of rural farmers. By giving them the resources, information, and assistance they require, we improve their standard of living while simultaneously promoting food security and economic expansion in Nigeria. Our Next Actions: We're determined to keep talking to our rural communities. This was only the start of the meeting. To fulfil our common objectives, we will not stop cooperating, developing, and learning. We are here for you, every step of the way, committed to your success. Many thanks to every farmer who took part and shared their insightful observations. One farm at a time, we are changing the world together. #SheFarmsAfrica #RuralDevelopment #SustainableAgriculture #CommunityEmpowerment #FarmersFirst #Agribusiness #FoodSecurity #EconomicGrowth