OCP Africa’s expansion into agribusiness underlines its key role in transforming Africa’s agricultural landscape.
OCP Africa, the leading fertilizer supplier on the African continent, is charting a new strategic course towards agribusiness. This strategic transformation aims to boost the production, processing and marketing of agricultural products, thereby consolidating its commitment to food security in Africa.
Youssef Lahmiti, head of agribusiness at OCP Africa, detailed this new direction in the company’s 2023 annual report. After consolidating its role in fertiliser supply, OCP Africa is diversifying to meet another major challenge, that of agri-food.
To make this vision a reality, OCP Africa plans to create a Business Unit dedicated to agribusiness, independent of its traditional fertiliser marketing activities. This unit will spearhead a strategic diversification, exploring business opportunities in the agricultural sector so as to maximise the development potential of value chains in Côte d’Ivoire and Rwanda.
OCP Africa’s investment strategy is based on three major pillars, with an inclusive focus. Firstly, increasing the productivity of food crops such as rice and wheat. Secondly, enhancing commercial agriculture by generating value for OCP Africa while including local farmers.
Finally, the promotion of so-called “lost” crops, such as fonio, teff and sorghum, which are essential for food diversification and ecological sustainability.
Several emblematic projects are currently in the implementation phase.
In Côte d’Ivoire, OCP Africa is leading initiatives on rice and maize, with expansions planned for 2024. A notable project in Rwanda involves the development of 1,000 hectares of rice cultivation, combining production, processing and marketing. The project will include a model farm with modern irrigation techniques and support for small local producers.
The Moroccan company is focusing on sustainable farming practices, adopting techniques such as cover cropping, reduced tillage and agroforestry to improve carbon sequestration and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The company will also invest in research and development to adapt its strategies to the specific agro-ecological conditions of the regions in which it operates, and introduce customised fertilisers. The use of innovative irrigation systems and advanced mechanisation technologies will also form part of this strategy to ensure optimum productivity.
MN/te/fss/as/APA