Agriculture adesina advocate investments rural infrastructure

Akinwumi Adesina, the President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), has been a strong advocate for investments in rural infrastructure to support agriculture and rural development in Africa. Here are some key points on his advocacy:

  1. Rural infrastructure is critical: Adesina has emphasized that rural infrastructure, including roads, bridges, storage facilities, and irrigation systems, is essential for agricultural development and poverty reduction in Africa.
  2. Investments in rural infrastructure can boost agriculture: He has argued that investments in rural infrastructure can increase agricultural productivity, reduce post-harvest losses, and improve market access for farmers, ultimately leading to increased food security and economic growth.
  3. Agriculture is a key driver of economic growth: Adesina has highlighted the importance of agriculture as a driver of economic growth in Africa, particularly in rural areas where the majority of the population lives.
  4. Rural infrastructure can reduce poverty: He has emphasized that rural infrastructure can help reduce poverty by creating jobs, improving access to markets, and increasing incomes for rural communities.
  5. Private sector involvement is crucial: Adesina has advocated for private sector involvement in the development of rural infrastructure, as it can bring in much-needed capital and expertise to support agricultural development.
  6. African governments must prioritize rural infrastructure: He has called on African governments to prioritize investments in rural infrastructure, recognizing that it is a critical component of their development strategies.
  7. Technology can play a key role: Adesina has highlighted the potential of technology to improve rural infrastructure, including the use of drones, satellite imaging, and mobile phones to monitor and manage agricultural production and supply chains.
  8. Agricultural development is a key component of the AfDB's strategy: As the President of the AfDB, Adesina has made agricultural development a key component of the bank's strategy, recognizing its potential to drive economic growth and reduce poverty in Africa.

Some of the specific initiatives and projects that Adesina has championed to support agricultural development and rural infrastructure in Africa include:

  1. The African Agricultural Development Program (AADP): This program aims to improve agricultural productivity and food security in Africa by investing in rural infrastructure, agricultural research, and extension services.
  2. The Feed Africa Initiative: This initiative aims to increase agricultural productivity and food security in Africa by investing in rural infrastructure, agricultural research, and extension services, as well as promoting private sector involvement in the agricultural sector.
  3. The Rural Infrastructure Development Program: This program aims to improve rural infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and storage facilities, to support agricultural development and rural poverty reduction in Africa.

Overall, Akinwumi Adesina's advocacy for investments in rural infrastructure to support agriculture and rural development in Africa is critical to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and reducing poverty and hunger in the region.