The Global Farmer Network launched its pilot Africa Agriculture Accelerator Pathway at the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) in Nairobi, Kenya. From August 12-14, 2024, the GFN convened 15 farmers from East, West, and Southern Africa to learn about each other’s agri-businesses, the CGIAR research currently being conducted in Kenya and beyond, and to discuss potential partnerships between government, research, and the private sector. Representatives from the US Embassy (USDA-FAS), WWF, AGCO, OCP, CropLife Africa, and Bayer also participated over the three days. As a result of the discussions, the 15 farmer participants are seeking to achieve the following outcome:
Our African networks increase their profitability through sustainable ag-tech adoption by 1) Inspiring our network to believe they can increase profitability; 2) Increasing our networks’ adoption of ag-tech solutions, and 3) Advocating to key opinion leaders, stakeholders and decision-makers to promote and support solutions that will increase profitability.
The GFN showcased this farmer-led process and subsequent results as a case study during the Africa Food Systems Forum in fall 2025.
In 2026, a radio program series started to share data and experiences in no-till. A maize series of articles were published, and feature articles on the work being done by the Africa Agriculture Accelerator were also circulated.
The GFN continues this work today. Report by – Patience Koku, Nigeria, Global Farmer Network Regional Lead: Africa Ag and Ruramiso Mashumba, Zimbabwe, Global Farmer Network Regional Lead: Africa Ag To learn more, contact Mary Boote, +1 515.274.0800 or [email protected].
