Private sector leaders from across Africa have called for stronger partnerships, increased investment, and greater innovation to accelerate the transformation of the continent’s agrifood systems. The appeal was made during the 4th African Agribusiness Leaders Dialogue, an online consultation organized ahead of the 34th Session of the FAO Regional Conference for Africa. The event gathered representatives from agribusiness, finance, and industry to discuss how entrepreneurship, technology, and capital can drive sustainable food systems across the continent.
The dialogue was held under the theme “Sustaining Agrifood Systems Transformation in Africa: Innovate. Partner. Invest.” and served as a platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas on strengthening Africa’s agricultural sector. Insights from the discussion will contribute to the agenda of the regional conference scheduled to take place in Nouakchott, Mauritania, from 13 to 17 April 2026. Participants highlighted the need to move from reliance on imports toward greater domestic value addition, stronger regional supply chains, and long-term investment strategies that build sustainable agricultural industries.
Speakers emphasized the crucial role of the private sector in driving agricultural transformation. According to representatives from agribusiness organizations, businesses must lead efforts to scale innovation, mobilize investment, and promote climate-resilient and market-driven agricultural systems. They stressed that the private sector can play a central role in shaping a food-secure future for Africa by accelerating change and expanding opportunities across the agrifood value chain.
Participants also discussed the opportunities and structural challenges facing Africa’s agriculture sector. While the continent has abundant resources, talent, and innovative ideas, experts highlighted the need for stronger coordination, improved policy environments, and greater access to capital. Aligning these elements, they argued, could help Africa achieve food security while also enabling the region to become a major global food exporter.
During the event, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations presented its new Private Sector Strategy, adopted in December 2025. The strategy aims to strengthen collaboration between FAO and private sector partners to support inclusive and sustainable agrifood systems. It encourages more action-oriented partnerships that rely on evidence-based approaches and stronger cooperation with businesses across the agricultural sector.
The dialogue concluded with discussions on practical private sector solutions and the need to create a supportive environment for agribusiness development. The recommendations and insights gathered will be presented as a private sector statement during the FAO Regional Conference for Africa, which convenes every two years to set regional priorities for food security, resilience, and sustainable agriculture across the continent.
