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Can digital solutions transform agri-food systems in Africa?

Author

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  • Mabaya, Edward
  • Porciello, Jaron

Abstract

Digital agriculture solutions hold a promise to build agri-food food systems that are more efficient, environmentally sustainable, and inclusive, thereby contributing to the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals. In most African countries, the rapid adoption of mobile phones and other digital tools have accelerated the deployment of agricultural services for farmers and other value chain actors resulting in enhanced access to information, knowledge, financial services, markets, and farm tools. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has provided a unique opportunity to fast-track the deployment of contact-free digital solutions along the agri-food value chains. Despite the numerous opportunities presented by the digital agricultural revolution, its potential to transform agri-food systems in Africa remains uncertain. With a broad perspective on Africa, this paper explores the emerging evidence on digital agricultural services including key drivers, evidence on impact, and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The paper concludes with some implications for policy makers and professionals in agricultural economics.

Suggested Citation

  • Mabaya, Edward & Porciello, Jaron, 2022. "Can digital solutions transform agri-food systems in Africa?," Agrekon, Agricultural Economics Association of South Africa (AEASA), vol. 61(01), March.
    • Handle: RePEc:ags:agreko:348124
    DOI: 10.22004/ag.econ.348124
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. World Bank, 2011. "ICT in Agriculture : Connecting Smallholders to Knowledge, Networks, and Institutions," World Bank Publications - Reports 12613, The World Bank Group.
    2. Edward Mukiibi, 2020. "COVID-19 and the state of food security in Africa," Agriculture and Human Values, Springer;The Agriculture, Food, & Human Values Society (AFHVS), vol. 37(3), pages 627-628, September.
    3. Josephson,Anna Leigh & Kilic,Talip & Michler,Jeffrey David, 2020. "Socioeconomic Impacts of COVID-19 in Four African Countries," Policy Research Working Paper Series 9466, The World Bank.
    4. Amankwah-Amoah, Joseph & Khan, Zaheer & Wood, Geoffrey & Knight, Gary, 2021. "COVID-19 and digitalization: The great acceleration," Journal of Business Research, Elsevier, vol. 136(C), pages 602-611.
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