The Pan-African Farmers’ Organisation (PAFO) and the African Development Bank (AfDB) are enhancing their partnership to improve support for smallholder farmers across Africa.
A delegation led by PAFO President Ibrahima Coulibaly visited the AfDB headquarters on December 13, 2024, to advance the implementation of the memorandum of understanding signed in October 2023, APA has learned.
Mr. Coulibaly outlined PAFO’s mission and strategic priorities, which focus on empowering smallholder farmers and advocating for their rights. He stressed the need for increased strategic support from the Bank to tackle the challenges facing agriculture, which has the potential to solve 80% of the continent’s problems.
The meeting resulted in plans to organise a high-level conference on financing for smallholder farmers in the second quarter of 2025. The event will bring together stakeholders to discuss the financial needs of smallholder farmers and explore sustainable solutions to improve their livelihoods.
Additionally, both parties agreed to develop a comprehensive action plan focused on capacity building, technology integration, and access to financing, particularly for women and young farmers.
Martin Fregene, Director of the AfDB’s Agriculture and Agro-Industry Department, reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to the partnership, highlighting its investments in agriculture, which have benefited over 14 million producers through initiatives that provide inputs and improve market access. He acknowledged the ongoing challenges in the sector and welcomed ideas from civil society organisations such as PAFO to enhance the Bank’s impact.
“The AfDB’s ‘Feed Africa’ strategy is a significant step towards transforming Africa’s agricultural sector, and we are excited to work with the Bank to help shape this vision,” said Mr. Coulibaly. “Through this partnership, we are committed to helping farmers, especially women and youth, access the support and resources they need to succeed.”
This partnership aligns with the Bank’s operational priorities, particularly the “Feed Africa” goal, and builds on its commitment to collaborate with civil society organizations. The Bank recognises the crucial role of these organisations in promoting sustainable development.
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