Agriculture is a cornerstone of Africa’s socio-economic landscape, essential for food security, employment, raw materials, and environmental sustainability. Africa is home to over 65% of the world’s uncultivated arable land, making it a critical global player in agriculture. The continent’s diverse climates—from the Sahel region to Central Africa’s tropical forests and the grasslands of Southern Africa—support a wide array of agricultural products and practices, enabling substantial production of grains, livestock, and other goods for both local consumption and international trade.
With Africa’s agricultural sector projected to grow to a $1 trillion industry by 2030, cross-border collaboration among countries is becoming increasingly important. Professor Eustace Iyayi, former CEO of the Nigerian Institute of Animal Science, defines cross-border collaboration as “partnerships and cooperative efforts between countries to improve agricultural practices, increase productivity, and address shared challenges such as food security, climate change, and trade.” These collaborations allow countries to pool resources, share technological innovations, and work on joint research, ultimately increasing agricultural efficiency and sustainability across the continent.
Cross-border efforts address major challenges facing African agriculture, such as climate change, inadequate infrastructure, and logistical barriers, by enabling countries to share knowledge, resources, and innovative practices. Examples of collaboration include joint research and development projects for improved crop varieties, sustainable farming techniques, and agricultural trade agreements like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aims to lower tariffs and smoothen the exchange of goods. Technological sharing also plays a crucial role, with countries exchanging machinery, irrigation systems, and data-driven tools to enhance productivity. Additionally, cross-border training programs provide farmers with skills to boost productivity and efficiency across borders.
Professor Iyayi highlighted successful cross-border initiatives, including Nigeria’s collaborations with neighboring countries. For example, Nigeria and Benin Republic cooperate in maize trade, while Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire collaborate on cocoa production. These partnerships have improved agricultural trade, bolstered food security, and contributed to economic growth across the region.
However, challenges such as trade barriers, inconsistent quality standards, and complex customs procedures can hinder these collaborations. Professor Iyayi suggests that harmonizing standards through regional organizations like the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the East African Community (EAC), and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) would simplify trade, reduce tariffs, and improve market access. Furthermore, investing in cross-border infrastructure—such as transport, storage, and processing facilities—could enhance trade efficiency and foster sectoral growth. Training for farmers and traders to navigate differing regulatory environments would also reduce complications arising from policy disparities.
By harnessing diverse resources and regional expertise, African countries can build a resilient agricultural framework that addresses food insecurity and promotes economic development. As these cross-border collaborations deepen, they hold the potential to transform Africa into a global agricultural powerhouse capable of feeding itself and contributing significantly to global food systems. The journey has started, and the possibilities are vast.
