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In a recent interview with a local news channel, Ben Leyka, CEO of the African Agri Council, shared critical insights on the current state of food security in Africa, the role of investment in agriculture, and how platforms like the African Agri-Investment Indaba are essential in fostering growth and sustainability.
The Challenge of Food Security in Africa
Leyka opened the conversation by acknowledging the stark reality of food insecurity in Africa. He referenced the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which aim to achieve global food security by 2030. Despite South Africa’s strong food production capabilities, Leyka pointed out that food affordability remains a significant challenge, affecting millions across the continent.
“Agriculture in Africa needs substantial investment to boost production and ensure that people can feed themselves and thrive,” Leyka remarked. He emphasized that agriculture should not just be viewed as a subsistence sector but as a key driver of economic growth and sustainability in Africa.
The Impact of Climate Change and Global Shocks
The CEO delved into the broader issues affecting food security, highlighting the impact of climate change and global conflicts on Africa’s agricultural systems. "Unfortunately, African food systems are not as resilient as we once thought," he said. These external shocks make food accessibility and affordability difficult, affecting entrepreneurs, farmers, and local businesses.
Leyka stressed that these challenges underscore the importance of developing sustainable, resilient agricultural systems across Africa. He urged the African continent to take responsibility for transforming its food systems by collaborating with both local and international stakeholders.
The Role of the African Agri-Investment Indaba
A central theme of the interview was the pivotal role of the African Agri-Investment Indaba, which will take place from November 18-20 in Cape Town. Leyka described the event as a crucial platform that brings together a wide array of stakeholders—ranging from development financial institutions and private equity firms to agribusinesses and policymakers.
The Indaba seeks to reposition agriculture from a subsistence model to a business-focused industry. "By putting agriculture and food at the center of investment and finance discussions, we are moving towards viewing agriculture as a viable business that can drive economic growth," Leyka explained.
The event is designed to promote knowledge sharing and business networking, with discussions on climate change’s impact on agriculture, funding solutions, and innovative policy frameworks that encourage private sector investment. Leyka expressed confidence that this holistic approach, which combines high-level knowledge sharing with practical business insights, will help Africa achieve its food security targets by 2030.
A Vision for 2030
In conclusion, Leyka reaffirmed his belief that the African continent can achieve food security by 2030. He called on both African and international stakeholders to join forces, invest in agriculture, and create resilient food systems that can withstand global challenges.
The African Agri-Investment Indaba, organized by the African Agri Council, continues to be a leading platform in addressing these pressing issues and driving meaningful change in Africa’s agricultural landscape.
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