Will Africa’s Next Growth Story Start on the Farm?

African agriculture is often reduced to simplistic headlines: “Africa needs to feed its people” or “Agriculture holds key to African economic growth.” But at last week’s Africa Food Systems Forum in Kigali, Rwanda, a more nuanced conversation emerged. This discussion centered on making farming profitable.

Elizabeth Wathuti, founder of the Green Generation Initiative, captured the essence of this conversation when she told a TIME panel that farmer prosperity is crucial for resilient food systems. “If the farmer prospers,” she said, “then it means that our food systems are going to be resilient.” This statement speaks directly to the engine driving Africa’s economic growth.

African farmers generate significantly less value than their counterparts elsewhere. According to AGRA figures, they earn about $1,500 per worker annually compared to $4,300 globally. This disparity isn’t just an issue of feeding people; it has broader implications for the continent’s economic prospects. A developed agriculture sector creates opportunities for investment in processing, trading, and other functions along the value chain. Only around 12-15% of agricultural GDP comes from processing in Africa, a stark contrast to more than 60% in developed regions.

Profitability is not just an economic imperative; it’s also a climate consideration. Farmers with margin can invest in irrigation, improved seeds, better soil health, or absorb bad seasons. Kingsley Moghalu, president at the Institute for Governance and Economic Transformation, pointed out that food systems should be the foundation of Africa’s economic growth agenda.

The discussion at the Africa Food Systems Forum highlighted opportunities for developing mature agri-food systems on the continent. By innovating solutions in Africa first, those hit hardest by climate shocks and market shifts can benefit. Investors and companies will also be drawn to emerging industries, creating new business opportunities.

Perhaps most significantly, this conversation reframes profitability as a prerequisite for durable climate action across all sectors. Policymakers, investors, and companies must begin to see farming not just as a means to feed people but as an engine for growth, prosperity, and climate resilience.

As we look ahead, the question remains: will Africa’s next growth story truly start on the farm? The answer depends on whether policymakers, investors, and companies can recognize farming’s potential to drive economic growth and resilience.