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The first session of the Africa Network of Agricultural Policy Research Institutes Stakeholders Conference offered rich insights into the shifting dynamics of global food systems. Moderated by Salomo Mbai, the conversation explored how wide-ranging shocks are altering agricultural landscapes and what African countries can do to strengthen resilience through well-grounded research, stronger institutions, and closer collaboration across sectors.
Ali Abdi from FAO delivered the keynote address, painting a clear picture of the realities facing the continent. Global disruptions are now more frequent, yet African governments continue to spend far less on agriculture compared to other regions. Donor funding, once a major source of support, is steadily declining. This contraction is happening at a time when per capita agricultural production has been falling, a trend that places increasing pressure on smallholder farmers.
The panel sessions drew perspectives from government, research, the private sector, and development partners. Wandile Sihlobo, Chief Economist, Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz) from South Africa reflected on his country’s experience, noting that strong commodity associations and structured engagement between government and research bodies have played a crucial role in managing uncertainty. Kenya’s experience, shared by Nancy Laibuni, showed how production subsidies, currency stabilisation efforts, improved transparency, and targeted infrastructure financing helped cushion the sector during turbulent periods. Both speakers emphasised the value of evidence-based action and consistent policy implementation.
From the donor community, Chris Chibwana of the Hewlett Foundation pointed out that the collapse of major funding institutions has exposed vulnerabilities in the financing landscape. He urged African governments to reassess priorities and work towards strategies that maximise limited resources. Donors, he explained, are moving towards more catalytic investments. Within this context, institutions such as the ANAPRI are becoming even more vital as sources of evidence, conveners of dialogue, and facilitators of stronger policy processes.
Perspectives from the private sector brought a practical dimension to the discussion. Innocent Okuku of the Africa Fertilizer Industry Development Association (AFIDA) and Stephen Ruzibiza of the Rwanda Private Sector Federation stressed the importance of a stable and enabling policy environment for private investment. While subsidies can boost production, their design and implementation must be carefully managed to avoid unintended consequences. Rwanda’s land consolidation and agricultural insurance initiatives were cited as examples of how governments can reduce risk for investors. Both speakers reiterated the need for more coherent policies across the region to expand intra-African trade.
The conversation also explored how to draw young people into agriculture. Profitability was widely recognised as the primary motivation for youth participation. Many believe that organising young people into cooperatives could improve coordination and create clearer pathways for engagement in the sector.
A common thread ran through the session: disruptions should no longer be viewed as exceptional. They are now a defining feature of the operating environment. Strengthening resilience will depend on coordinated policy processes, meaningful dialogue between public and private actors, sustainable financing approaches, and a stronger commitment to evidence-led decision making. Successful implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area, along with the removal of barriers that hinder its progress, also emerged as a priority. Ultimately, the path forward requires a shift towards transformative agricultural development, underpinned by robust research systems, sustained outreach, and long-term investment.
The session closed with a reminder that resilience is a product of intentional action. Building food systems that can withstand uncertainty will require commitment, collaboration, and a shared focus on the continent’s long-term vision. Watch the recorded session here.