Tanzania is setting significant milestones in food self-sufficiency, inspiring optimism about Africa’s potential to combat hunger and malnutrition. Tanzania’s President, Samia Suluhu Hassan, recently announced that her nation achieved 128% food security and is now exporting surplus food to neighboring countries. This achievement is part of a broader, transformative effort across Africa to boost agricultural productivity and feed the continent.
Speaking at a high-level session at the World Food Prize Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue, President Suluhu Hassan addressed an audience alongside Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank Group, and Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio. Titled “Bold Measures to Feed Africa,” the session highlighted significant strides made by Tanzania and other African nations in achieving food security and self-sufficiency. President Suluhu Hassan emphasized that Tanzania’s current focus extends beyond food sufficiency to improving food quality, accessibility, affordability, and reducing post-harvest losses.
Dr. Adesina commended Tanzania’s leadership and political will, which have been instrumental in the country’s agricultural achievements. He pointed to the African Development Bank’s recent efforts, including the 2023 Dakar 2 Food Summit, which brought together 34 African Heads of State to foster commitment toward country-specific agricultural programs. As a result, African nations have collectively mobilized over $72 billion in agricultural investment. This commitment is a vital step forward in realizing Africa’s goal of becoming a global agricultural powerhouse.
President Suluhu Hassan highlighted that Tanzania emerged from the Dakar 2 summit with a signed compact and a clear vision for boosting agricultural productivity. Tanzania’s determination is evidenced by the establishment of new institutions and support structures for farmers, which have been pivotal in the country’s agricultural success. She pointed out that neglecting investment in agriculture comes with high costs, both economically and socially, which is why her administration has prioritized this sector.
Tanzania’s achievements extend beyond food self-sufficiency. The country has also become a net exporter of processed cashew nuts, an impressive accomplishment since many African countries export raw cashews for processing overseas, primarily in Asia. This shift signifies not only Tanzania’s growing agricultural capabilities but also the potential for African nations to retain more value from their agricultural products. Another notable accomplishment is Tanzania’s progress in rural electrification, with nearly 100% of its 12,300 villages now connected to electricity. This infrastructure advancement has been crucial in supporting rural farming communities and enabling agricultural productivity.
A crucial element of Tanzania’s agricultural transformation is the Creating Jobs for Youth and Women program, backed by the African Development Bank. Targeting the nation’s substantial youth population (65% of the total), this program provides training in farming, livestock management, and crop production, helping young people build sustainable careers in agriculture. Under this initiative, each participating youth receives ten acres of land, along with essential agricultural training. To date, 11,000 youths have benefitted from this initiative, and the program’s success is marked by the start of this year’s harvest. President Suluhu Hassan expressed gratitude to the African Development Bank for supporting this program, which has helped empower young Tanzanians and enhance national food production.
During the same event, Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio shared his country’s success with the Feed Salone program, which has dramatically increased agricultural productivity and reduced the country’s dependence on rice imports. Under this program, Sierra Leone has cut rice imports by 20 million tons, a remarkable feat given the nation’s prior heavy reliance on imported rice. President Bio acknowledged that food security was not a focal point during his first term in office, as his administration prioritized education. However, recognizing the importance of food security for national stability and development, his government has since placed a greater emphasis on agriculture. The Feed Salone program has empowered local farmers, boosted domestic food production, and positioned Sierra Leone to eventually become a food exporter.
Both Presidents Suluhu Hassan and Bio used this platform to invite global investors to consider Africa as a viable destination for agricultural investment. They emphasized that African nations are making bold strides toward food security and that investment in the continent’s agricultural sector can yield significant returns. The African Development Bank has been instrumental in reshaping global perceptions of Africa, particularly regarding the continent’s potential to become a global food basket. The Bank’s efforts include hosting events such as the African Dialogue, held in Iowa, to showcase Africa’s agricultural progress and attract investment.
Africa’s agricultural potential is vast, with 65% of the world’s remaining arable land located on the continent. As climate change threatens food security worldwide, Africa’s resources and favorable climate offer a crucial opportunity to meet global food demands. The continent’s young and growing population also presents a workforce ready to drive this agricultural transformation. However, to harness this potential, Africa requires investment in agricultural technology, infrastructure, and training. This investment would help ensure that Africa can not only feed its own population but also contribute to global food security.
Dr. Adesina underscored the importance of shifting global perceptions of Africa, which is often viewed through the lens of stereotypes. He emphasized that Africa is not only a continent of challenges but also one of immense potential, innovation, and opportunity. The African Development Bank has been a vocal advocate for attracting investment to Africa’s agricultural sector, as the continent has the capacity and resources needed to become a global agricultural leader. By hosting international dialogues and promoting Africa’s achievements, the Bank aims to foster a better understanding of the continent’s capabilities and to encourage global investors to seize the opportunities that Africa presents.
The 2024 Norman E. Borlaug Dialogue serves as a global platform where experts come together to explore innovative solutions to hunger and food insecurity. This year’s theme, “Seeds of Opportunity, Bridging Generations and Cultivating Diplomacy,” underscores the importance of collaboration, legacy-building, and hope in addressing food security challenges. The event serves as a reminder of the urgency of tackling hunger and malnutrition, and it celebrates the achievements of nations like Tanzania and Sierra Leone that are leading the way in agricultural transformation.
Dr. Adesina recalled a personal conversation with Dr. Norman Borlaug, the father of the Green Revolution, who advised him shortly before his death in 2009 to continue striving for Africa. This advice resonates deeply with the African Development Bank’s mission to champion investment in Africa and empower African nations to achieve food security and economic self-sufficiency. Dr. Borlaug’s legacy continues to inspire leaders and organizations worldwide to take decisive action in the fight against hunger.
Africa’s potential to feed the world is no longer a distant dream but an attainable reality. As nations like Tanzania and Sierra Leone demonstrate, with the right leadership, commitment, and investment, African countries can achieve food self-sufficiency, support sustainable livelihoods, and drive economic growth. The African Development Bank’s support and the commitment of African leaders highlight that investing in Africa’s agriculture sector is a sound decision for those seeking sustainable development and returns. As Dr. Adesina aptly put it, “If you are not investing in Africa, what are you doing?” The call for investment in Africa is a call to be part of the continent’s journey toward becoming a cornerstone of global food security.
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