Many smallholder farmers in Africa rely on traditional or outdated farming methods, which significantly undermine efforts to achieve food security in Africa. Low awareness of modern and climate-smart agriculture methods leads to farmers missing out on these methods that could increase their yields, conserve their soils and ensure sustainability. This is one of the key issues to be addressed in the upcoming 2025 African International Agricultural EXPO to be held in Kenya from October 28-31 in Nairobi. According to Tito Mutai, the CEO of Agri-Africa Exhibition LTD, fragmented information and a lack of proper systems for information dissemination pose a huge problem in the agricultural sector across the African continent.
There is poor awareness of government programs and support among the African people due to a lack of information. Several African governments and NGOs run food security and subsidy programs, which many farmers and households are unaware of. As a result, farmers are unable to access tools, seeds, insurance or market access strategies. Climate change and risk awareness are also low among the farmers as they lack knowledge on how climate change is affecting rainfall patterns, pests and soil quality. Warning systems for droughts or floods are underused, as many Africans do not understand or trust the technology, hence the farmers cannot adapt in a timely manner. Gender inequality is also a major challenge, as women who form a major part of Africa’s agricultural workforce often have less access to education, extension services, and agricultural training, which further deepens the knowledge gap in rural households.
Raising awareness through community education, agricultural extension, media campaigns, and school programs is essential. The agricultural Expo to be held in October will play a major role in forging solutions towards these challenges. This is a major step that will help the African continent move towards food security and sustainability.
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