The special challenge for Africa Special Session on

The special challenge for Africa Changing context: renewed optimism Growth accelerates from early 80

The special challenge for Africa Changing context … • Conflict reduced • Regional institutions

The special challenge for Africa Facing challenges … • Challenges: § § § §

The special challenge for Africa … & Realising Opportunities Policy Pointers • Macro Policy

The special challenge for Africa Discussion points 1. Why has agricultural performance in much

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The special challenge for Africa Special Session on Africa

The special challenge for Africa Changing context: renewed optimism Growth accelerates from early 80 s North & West Africa do well Less net taxation the cause?

The special challenge for Africa Changing context … • Conflict reduced • Regional institutions ever stronger § Renewed commitment to agriculture • CAADP, AGRA • Donor promises • Better business environment • Potential of land • Market opportunities: § Large domestic & regional § Exports, including biofuel

The special challenge for Africa Facing challenges … • Challenges: § § § § Widening technology gap Slow development of markets for inputs, outputs Slow regional integration Shortcomings in governance & institutions, Conflicts HIV/AIDS and other diseases Climate change

The special challenge for Africa … & Realising Opportunities Policy Pointers • Macro Policy & Investment climate § ↓Remaining net taxation in Africa § Level international playing field § ↑Regional integration • Rural Public Goods: roads to market; ag research & extension; rural schools & health • Remedy market failures § … including rural financial systems & reduced risks • Futures for small farmers § Not all will farm in 20/50 years time § Provide options & livelihoods in rural & urban economy • Rebuild public capacity § Effective decentralisation

The special challenge for Africa Discussion points 1. Why has agricultural performance in much of Africa been disappointing? § § 2. 3. 4. 5. What went wrong? Correcting past mistakes? What is potential for Africa to ensure food security? Potential of smallholder agriculture for agricultural growth & poverty reduction. 1. 2. How will transitions in farming affect smallholders? How should they be assisted? 1. 2. Does Africa need a Green Revolution? What would be the elements? Priorities for technological change. Institutional & policy changes to support farmers & others in agri -food value chain. Creating a +ve environment for investment.