Can digital solutions transform agri-food systems in Africa?

• Published in: Agrekon Vol. 61; no. 1; pp. 67 - 79
• Main Authors: Mabaya, Edward, Porciello, Jaron
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Abingdon Routledge 02.01.2022; Taylor & Francis; Taylor & Francis Ltd
• Subjects: Access to information; Africa; agri-food systems; Agribusiness; Agricultural economics; Agriculture; Attainment; Coronaviruses; COVID-19; COVID-19 infection; Deployment; Digital agriculture services; evidence gaps; Farmers; farms; Financial services; Food; Information services; issues and policy; Mobile phones; Pandemics; Policy making; Smallholder farmers; smart farming; supply chain; Sustainability; Sustainable development; Value; Value chain; Africa
• ISSN: 0303-1853; 2078-0400; 2078-0400
• DOI: 10.1080/03031853.2022.2032223

Digital agriculture solutions hold a promise to build agri-food food systems that are more efficient, environmentally sustainable, and inclusive, thereby contributing to the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals. In most African countries, the rapid adoption of mobile phones and other digital tools have accelerated the deployment of agricultural services for farmers and other value chain actors resulting in enhanced access to information, knowledge, financial services, markets, and farm tools. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has provided a unique opportunity to fast-track the deployment of contact-free digital solutions along the agri-food value chains. Despite the numerous opportunities presented by the digital agricultural revolution, its potential to transform agri-food systems in Africa remains uncertain. With a broad perspective on Africa, this paper explores the emerging evidence on digital agricultural services including key drivers, evidence on impact, and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The paper concludes with some implications for policy makers and professionals in agricultural economics.