As Sub-Saharan Africa grapples with its most severe food crisis in decades, the African Agri Council (AAC) took decisive action at the start of the seventh African Agri Investment Indaba in Cape Town. With hundreds of participants from more than 20 countries, this year’s event is set to address the escalating food scarcity that is impacting millions across the continent.
Currently, over 16 million people in Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe are facing acute food insecurity, worsened by inflation, droughts, and economic instability. Vulnerable populations, especially women, girls, and children, are bearing the brunt of this crisis, with access to nutritious food becoming increasingly limited.
In South Africa, nearly 250 000 households in Cape Town alone are experiencing hunger, the highest levels among the country’s major cities.
A recent report from the University of Cape Town highlights the alarming trend of dietary deficiencies, noting that many residents may not be feeling the pangs of hunger, but their nutritional needs are going unmet.
Ben Leyka, CEO of the AAC, underscores the urgency of involving the private sector in addressing this crisis.
“The indaba is a crucial platform for innovators and stakeholders to collaborate, share insights, and develop actionable solutions,” Leyka states. “We must act now to ensure food security for all.”
Agritech investment takes centre stage
Changwe Kumalinga, CFO of Good Nature Agro Zambia and programme chair at the indaba, highlights the role of agri-tech in solving the crisis.
“This event brings together the brightest minds in agri-tech to tackle urgent challenges. It’s alarming that less than 2% of agri-investments are directed towards agritech, which shows just how much focus is needed in this critical sector,” Kumalinga adds.
With agricultural investments attracting growing interest from institutional and family investors, the AAC aims to shift the narrative around food security.
By presenting agriculture as a viable investment opportunity, the Indaba is positioning the sector not only as a solution to the food crisis but also as a source of significant economic returns. This strategy aligns with the AAC’s broader goal of unlocking economic potential while addressing pressing social issues.
The indaba is packed with dynamic discussions, networking opportunities, and investment discovery sessions, all designed to foster collaboration within the agritech sector. Keynote panels will feature industry leaders who will explore innovative practices that could reshape Africa’s food future.
The event will culminate on Wednesday, 20 November 2024 with the inaugural AAC Awards Ceremony, recognising outstanding contributions in categories such as Woman of the Year, Deal of the Year, Rising Star, and Innovation in Food and Agri.
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