Newsletter

Don't miss a thing!

We regularly provide you with the most important news, articles, topics, projects and ideas for One World – No Hunger.

Please also refer to our data protection declaration.

A new attempt at Africa's industrialization?

2017-04-25

Afrika is about ready. There are promising approaches for a sustainable industrialization. However, the path poses challenges to the continent.

The digital revolution will shape Africa's future. (c) Rainer Kwiotek/Zeitenspiegel/Menschen für Menschen

Helmut Asche

Professor Helmut Asche is an economist and sociologist. From 1985 to 1998 he worked as an economic advisor for GTZ. Until 2016 he taught as an honorary professor at the Department of Anthropology and African studies, University of Mainz.

The refugee crisis shed a completely new light on the issue of jobs in Africa

In most African countries, the majority of people work in agriculture. According to predictions of the future economic structure of sub-Saharan Africa, by far the largest number of new jobs – at least in rural areas – will also be in agriculture. Alongside this, employment opportunities are emerging in modern service sectors, especially the IT industry.

It seemed unrealistic for Africa to imitate the East Asian development model.

Less than 20 years ago, experts confidently described this combination of agriculture and services as typifying the trend of development on the African continent. Especially in the English-speaking world, academic papers that addressed the question of ‘should Africa industrialise?’ regularly concluded that it should not and recommended instead that it should leapfrog the industrial age. This leapfrogging would involve omitting an entire economic sector – that of manufacturing – and moving directly into an agriculture-cum-service age. It seemed unrealistic for Africa to imitate the East Asian development model. This way of thinking completely excluded a specific industrial policy that could have boosted the faltering development of industrial productivity. There was too deep-seated a memory of the grandiose attempts of Latin America and Africa to bring about industrialisation through state-owned companies operating behind high tariff walls – endeavours that with some exceptions resulted mainly in the production of white elephants.

There has been a radical paradigm shift here – and it has occurred not just since the refugee crisis shed a completely new light on the issue of jobs in Africa but in fact some years before that. New studies of structural change and employment trends in Africa have shown that continuation of the present trend – involving job growth in the private and public service sectors and to some extent in agriculture – will not create anywhere near the number of jobs needed to absorb the up-and-coming cohorts of young people looking for work. The demographic window of opportunity will quickly snap shut again. Extrapolated scenarios highlight the need for a radical game change – which will not happen without energetic political support. Alongside manufacturing industry as a driver of job creation, industrial policy thus once again takes centre stage in the development policy debate. Also on the agenda now are the new challenges of economic and environmental sustainability. The belching smokestack phase of catch-up industrialisation is no longer a realistic option, in Africa or elsewhere. A paradigm shift is therefore needed on no fewer than three fronts. The task facing a ministry of trade and industry that is responsible for coordinating this process with the private sector could not be harder.

Planning has become harder rather than easier

However, there is at least some clarity with regard to the practical essentials of modern industrial policy – namely a joint search for industrial opportunities by the public and private sectors, and selective promotion with clear time horizons, feedback loops and public control (see: PEGNet Policy Brief). What is far less clear in theoretical terms is which industrial sectors the economic latecomers among the developing countries should focus on. This is a result of the heuristic disposition of modern industrial policy, which has elevated collective self-discovery in a world of complex inter- and intra-industry division of labour to the status of a principle. Patterns of growth are generally more diverse than they were in earlier industrial periods. The classical sequence of industrialisation – typically from light to heavy industry – is not one that developing countries can readily pursue. Rational planning in the context of modern industrial policy has thus become harder than in the past rather than easier.

Of course even in such a scenario many agriculture-related jobs will still be created, for example in agroindustry or in the processing of agricultural commodities such as textiles and leather. The situation benefits from the fact that the paradigmatic flying geese of labour-intensive industrialisation, which originally took off in Japan, moved westwards from China a long time ago. However, an economy as a whole does not learn much from the establishment of mature labour-intensive industries. In Africa – as elsewhere – job creation is not the same thing as knowledge creation. An economic policy that promotes dynamic industrial networks must aim at both. With deliberate reference to the processors contained in our computers, I have termed this the ‘dual core’ of modern industrialisation strategies. In practice it is South Africa’s partially successful industrial policies that provide the closest example.

Many of these trends cannot be confidently predicted for Africa – and this uncertainty extends to the promise held out by the digital revolution. IT-saturated sectors are one of the principal areas in which leapfrogging is actually taking place; it can be observed in the skipping of the landline telephone stage and the development of innovative banking services. Startups focusing on the development of software and IT-based services are blossoming in Africa. By contrast, there is as yet no clear picture of how developing regions will be affected by the new risks to classical industrial employment that arise from the spread of the Internet of Things and what Germany has termed ‘Industry 4.0’. We do not know precisely what the ultimate effect of the digital revolution in Africa will be.

Let’s stick to the subject of leapfrogging. The second sector that is coming up with innovative technical solutions in Africa is renewable energy: off-grid solar systems are particularly promising and combinations of off-grid and on-grid solutions will no doubt take off soon. As in the field of telecommunications, the systemic failure of large-scale networks in Africa is being creatively bypassed and the outcome is a growing contribution to sustainable economic development as defined by the SDGs. In any case, it has now become clear that – contrary to the theories of old-fashioned development economics – leapfrogging relates not to the skipping of industrialisation in general but to progressive leaps forward geared to sustainable and inclusive solutions within particular industries and services. However, the African energy policy debate is still a long way from coming down on the side of sustainability. Large coal-rich countries such as Mozambique, Nigeria and South Africa face a complex public choice, at least for a transitional period in their development: should they rely entirely on renewable energies or go for an energy mix for the time being?

Some researchers say that in view of the global trade in tasks, African companies should focus on individual work processes and not on the establishment of entire industrial sectors.

Equally unclear is the outlook with regard to industrial division of labour. Promoting the participation of African producers in global and regional value chains is one of the new development cooperation mantras. Some researchers say that in view of the global trade in tasks, African companies should focus on individual work processes and not on the establishment of entire industrial sectors. Yet despite recent descriptions of the great unbundling of concentrated industrial production, we are now witnessing a trend towards re-agglomeration of important industrial sectors. Does it make sense after all to have a fully integrated textile chain in Ethiopia, or at least in a regional community? It is hard to advise developing countries on this point. In view of these uncertainties, which can only be reduced by a structured public-private dialogue with practical iteration loops, and also on account of the notorious political and economic risks – corruption, clientelism and so on – modern industrial policy in developing countries is one of the most challenging areas of policy. Many countries will be unable to deal with it, especially as there are a couple of other problem areas that also come into play.

One of the most exciting development policy challenges for some time to come

Promotion of industry is particularly difficult in a group of countries that should be able to fund it themselves: countries that are rich in mineral resources. After decades of discussion of the ‘resource curse’ and the Dutch disease, development economists still have no more than a vague idea of how to deal with the structural disadvantage of agriculture and the manufacturing sector.

And, finally, there is the issue of the connection between industrialisation and regional integration. One aspect of this is the fact that, for reasons of economies of scale, a whole range of industries depend on large connected markets. At the same time, successful regional integration requires the relatively balanced industrialisation of member states, and that is even harder to achieve politically. Promoting regional value chains does not automatically have a balancing effect. In consequence, both industrialised and developing countries often fall for the idea of pursuing an industrial policy that hits out at their own regional association. Whether it is ‘Buy American’ at the expense of NAFTA or ‘Buy Ugandan’ at the expense of the EAC, it is always a problematic policy, to put it mildly. The links between agricultural, industrial and trade policy are in any case uncertain territory. For all these reasons, the list of African countries that have actually pursued a successful industrial policy in particular sectors is very short: Botswana, Ethiopia, Mauritius, Rwanda and South Africa. And there is not a single oil producer among them.

One can also have a positive take on this: sustainable industrialisation is going to remain one of the most exciting development policy challenges for some time to come, and Africa is full of imaginative initiatives in this field.

Go back

Ideas on the ground: Local solutions for global challenges

Interview with Sebastian Lesch (BMZ)

A world without hunger and with sufficient healthy food as well as climate-friendly agriculture can only be achieved if ideas are transformed into innovations and ultimately also applied - a conversation with BMZ Head of Division Sebastian Lesch on the Innovation Challenge programme of the new Agricultural Innovation Fund.

Rethinking funding

By Anna Sophia Rainer

Peasant farmers tend to fail due to bank credit limits. But investment could help them generate a sustainable income. This has given rise to an intense discussion about potential digital solutions.

Answers from the youth: "Leave or stay? That depends on it!"

GIZ study; conducted by Geopoll

Does Africa's youth want to live in the city or in the country? Which career path seems particularly attractive? And how optimistic are the young people about the future? Young adults from rural areas answered these questions by SMS.

5 questions to S. Fan: Where are the new roads?

Interview with Shenggen Fan

Shortly before ending his position as Director General of the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPR) Dr. Shenggen Fan talks about the reforms and new modes of operation needed to achieve global food security in the coming decade.

How much private investment is the agricultural sector able to bear?

By Pedro Morazán

Small farmers in developing countries must modernise their farming methods, but poorly understood reforms could exacerbate poverty instead of alleviating it.

Enough of being poor

By Marcellin Boguy

In western Africa a new middle class is emerging. Their consumer behaviour is determining the demand for products – home-produced and imported goods, on the internet or at the village market. The people of Ivory Coast in particular are looking to the future with optimism.

Africa's rapid economic transformation

A report by T. S. Jayne, A. Adelaja and R. Mkandawire

Thirty years ago, Africa was synonymous with war, famine and poverty. That narrative is clearly outdated. African living standards are rising remarkably fast. Our authors are convinced that improving education and entrepreneurship will ensure irreversible progress in the region even as it confronts COVID-19.

Video: 4 Questions to Claudia Makdristo

A video clip by Seedstars

Startups are booming in African agriculture. What are the current trend and challenges – and can other regions benefit from innovative approaches? A Video-Interview with Claudia Makadristo, Regional Manager of Seedstars

Turning many into one: CGIAR network restructures

A contribution by Jan Rübel

International agricultural research is responding to new challenges: Their advisory group is undergoing a fundamental reform process and unites knowledge, partnerships and physical assets into OneCGIAR.

What it takes now

A contribution by Heike Baumüller

Artificial intelligence, big data and blockchain are the hottest topics of our time. The digital transformation of the African agricultural sector is ready for take-off. What will it take for the future of technology to hit the ground running?

The digitised farmyard

An interactive graphic Jan Rübel

Lots of apps are entering the market, but what really makes sense? For African agriculture, some of it seems like a gimmick, some like a real step forward. So this is what a smallholder farm in Africa could look like today - with the help of smartphones, internet and electricity.

Story: In Blocked Chains We Trust

A contribution by Solomon King Benge

It is 2080. We are on a farm somewhere in Africa. Everything is digital. The blockchain is an omnipotent point of reference, and the farm is flourishing. But then, everything goes wrong. A dystopian short story, written exclusively for SEWOH.

"We are not Uber for tractors"

Interview with Jehiel Oliver

Jehiel Oliver was a successful consultant. One day, he quit his job in investment banking to become a social entrepreneur. His mission: tractors for Africa. Rental tractors. What gave him that idea? Find out in his interview with Jan Rübel.

Video diaries in the days of Corona: Voices from the ground

A contribution by Sarah D´haen & Alexander Müller, Louisa Nelle, Bruno St. Jaques, Sarah Kirangu-Wissler and Matteo Lattanzi (TMG)

Young farmers’ insights on the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on food systems in Sub-Saharan Africa @CovidFoodFuture and video diaries from Nairobi’s informal settlements.

From start to finish: a vision of interconnectivity

A contribution by Tanja Reith

At the moment, the agricultural industries of African countries exist in relative isolation. Imagine peasant farmers digitally connected to the value chains of the global food industry. How could this happen? A guidebook.

A global signpost: What way is the market, please?

A contribution by the World Food Programme

There is a clear global task: We need to feed nine billion people by 2050. We, the people of Earth, must produce more food and waste less. That is the top priority of the UN World Food Programme (WFP), too - the description of a challenge.

Visions in agriculture

Video by Frank Schultze and Jan Rübel

At the beginning of December 2018, AGRA's board of directors met in Berlin. The "Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa" panel discussed the next steps in their policy of modernizing agriculture. How to go on in the next ten years? One question - many answers from experts.

"Nutrition is a human right"

Interview with Joe DeVries (AGRA)

Joe DeVries is a breeder – and Vice President of AGRA (Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa). What are the chances and risks of a ’green revolution‘ in Africa? A discourse between Jan Rübel and him about productivity, needs, and paternalism.

Wanted: German investment in African agriculture

Interview with Stefan Liebing

Stefan Liebing is chairman of the Africa Association of German Business. The manager calls for a better structure of African farms. Jan Rübel asked him about small farmers, the opportunities for German start-ups and a new fund.

Silicon Valley for Africa’s agricultural start-ups

A contribution by Michel Bernhardt (GIZ)

The project “Scaling digital agriculture innovations through start-ups” (SAIS) supports Africans going into business in the agricultural and food sector in scaling their digital innovations and thus reaching out to a larger number of users.

Africa's face of agriculture is female

A contribution by Beatrice Gakuba (AWAN-AFRIKA)

Africa has a huge opportunity to make agriculture its economic driver. However, the potential for this is far from being made exhaustive use of, one reason being that women face considerable difficulties in their economic activities. The organisation AWAN Afrika seeks to change this state of affairs.

Innovations for a secure food supply

A contribution by German Agribusiness Alliance

The COVID 19 pandemic is hitting developing and emerging countries and their poorest populations particularly hard. It is important to take countermeasures at an early stage. Companies in the German agricultural sector want to make their contribution to ensuring the availability of urgently needed operating resources.

Can this end world hunger?

A report by Stig Tanzmann

Time to dig deeper: We can only benefit from technical progress if we have a solid legal framework for everybody. But so far, none is in sight - in many countries. Instead, international corporations grow ever more powerful.

News from the starting block: Changeover

A contribution by Michael Brüntrup (DIE)

The region of Sub-Saharan Africa is on the decisive verge of a great development boost in farming: it could skip entire generations of technological development. But how? About possible roles and potentials of digital services.

"The Green Revolution reaches its limits"

Interview with Stig Tanzmann (BfdW)

Stig Tanzmann is a farmer and adviser on agricultural issues at ‘Bread for the World’. Jan Rübel interviewed him about his reservations about AGRA's strategy.

The communicator

A contribution by Jan Rübel

What do electrical engineering, telecommunications and agriculture have in common? They arouse the passion of Strive Masiyiwa: Thirty years ago, he started an electrical installation company with $75, later riding the telecommunications wave as a pioneer. Today he is committed to transforming African agriculture.

Microinsurance against climate change

A contribution by Claudia Voß

Climate change is destroying development progress in many places. The clever interaction of digitalisation and the insurance industry protects affected small farmers.

No dirty dealing

Von Marlis Lindecke

Shit Business is Serious Business: A successful cooperation between research and the private sector.

Slaves do not produce quality

By Tilman Wörtz

Every child in Germany knows Ritter Sport – but most of the children harvesting cocoa on western African plantations have never even eaten chocolate. Can a chocolate manufacturer change the world? Conversation with Alfred Ritter about the power and powerlessness of a businessman.

A fresh opportunity

Interview with Lutz Hartmann

By leasing a three hundred hectare fruit plantation in Ethiopia, Lutz Hartmann has realised a long-cherished dream: to run his own business in Africa. Now he has a personal interest in the issue of Africa’s development.

Support for sustainable start-ups

Companies in Africa that need financing between $20,000 and $200,000 find relatively few investors, as this sector is too large for microcredit and too small for institutional investors. This creates a "gap in the middle" where companies have limited options. A project of the World Resource Institute provides a remedy with the Landaccelerator 2020.

A World Resources Institute project

Controversy: Do supply chains need liability rules?

Discussion about the potential supply chain law

The German government is struggling to pass a supply chain law. It is intended to address violations of human rights, social and environmental standards. What would the consequences be for business? A double interview with Veselina Vasileva from GEPA and economics professor Andreas Freytag.

Doing More With Less

A contribution by Jochen Moninger

Innovation is the only way to end hunger worldwide by the deadline we have set ourselves. The secret lies in networking and sharing ideas – and several initiatives are already leading by example.

Pesticides – a blessing or a curse?

A debate between Lena Luig and Ludger Weß

What are the consequences of using synthetic pesticides in agriculture? Where do they help, where do they harm? Lena Luig, expert for the development policy organization INKOTA, and science journalist Ludger Weß discuss this controversial topic of international scope.

Reference values: A building block on the road to social equality

A contribution by Friederieke Martin (GIZ)

A quick and cost-effective method calculates living wages and incomes for many different countries. The GIZ together with Fairtrade International and Richard and Martha Anker have developed a tool that companies can use to easily analyse income and wage gaps.

Ms Rudloff, what are the benefits of a supply chain law?

By Jan Rübel

The Federal Government is fine-tuning a law that would require companies to ensure human rights – a supply chain law. What are the consequences for the agricultural sector? Dr Bettina Rudloff from the German Institute for International and Security Affairs (SWP) discusses linking policy fields with added value.

Freed from trade? Towards a fairer EU Trade Agenda

A contribution by Dr. Jan Orbie (University Gent)

‘Fair’ and ‘sustainable’ are key words in Germany’s EU Council Presidency. At the same time, Germany pursues ‘modernization’ of the WTO and ‘rapid progress’ on free trade agreements. Are these goals really compatible? Can we be concerned about fairness and sustainability while continuing with ‘business as usual’?

Good health is impossible without healthy food

A contribution by Heino von Meyer

Corona makes it even more difficult to achieve a world without hunger by 2030. So that this perspective does not get out of sight, Germany must play a stronger role internationally - a summary of the Strategic Advisory Group of SEWOH.

Human Rights, Land and Rural Development

A contribution by Michael Windfuhr (German Institute for Human Rights)

Land rights are no longer governed by the law of the strongest. That is what the international community has agreed to. Governments and private companies have a duty to respect human rights and avoid corruption.

Continent in an uptrend

A report by Dr. Agnes Kalibata (AGRA)

Partnering for Africa’s Century: Innovation and Leadership as Drivers of Growth and Productivity in Rural Areas

Small Farms, big money

A contribution by Agnes Kalibata

Agnes Kalibata, AGRA president since 2014 and former minister of agriculture and wildlife in Rwanda, is convinced that Africa's economy will only grow sustainably if small-scale agriculture is also seen as an opportunity.

How can the private sector prevent food loss and waste?

An interview with David Brand (GIZ)

From a circular food system in Rwanda to functioning cooled transports in Kenya: The lab of tomorrow addresses development challenges such as preventing food loss and waste

From lost products to safe food - Innovations from Zambia

A contribution by GIZ

In Zambia, innovative approaches are used to address the problem of post-harvest losses in the groundnut value chain. GIZ's Rapid Loss Appraisal Tool (RLAT) can help to develop more such approaches.

Investing in Healthy Soils: Curse or Blessing?

A Contribution by WWF

How investing in healthy soils provides incentives for more sustainable agriculture even as it demonstrates the need for far reaching changes in the agrisector.

Successful Blueprints for African Agriculture

A Contribution by GIZ

At the 8th German-African Agribusiness Forum (GAAF) representatives from business and politics discussed successful investment models to improve living conditions in Africa.

Together towards Sustainable Development: Private Sector Cooperation

A Multimedia-Toolbox by GIZ

Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals through responsible investments in the agri-food sector of emerging countries.

The human finca

Interview with Marvin Antonio Garcia Otero

In Eastern El Salvador, campesinos are cultivating a self-image to encourage rural youth to remain in rural areas. With help from Caritas, they have adjusted the cultivation methods to their soils and traditions - Marvin Antonio Garcia Otero,the deputy director of Caritas of the Diocese of San Miguel believes this is the best way to prevent rural exodus and criminality.

“Corona exposes the weaknesses of our nutritional systems"

Interview with Arif Husain (WFP)

The United Nations plan a Food Systems Summit - and now the Corona-Virus is dictating the agenda. The Chief Economist of the UN World Food Programme takes stock of the current situation: a conversation with Jan Rübel about pandemics, about the chromosomes of development - and about the conflicts that inhibit them.

"Agriculture can become a job engine"

Interview with Reiner Klingholz

How can agriculture modernise Africa? And does the road to the cities really lead out of poverty? Dr. Reiner Klingholz from the Berlin Institute for Population and Development in conversation with Jan Rübel .

New campaign for women: "Poverty is sexist"

Interview with Stephan Exo-Kreischer

This is a benchmark for everybody: More rights for women are a very influencing solution in the struggle against extreme poverty and hunger worldwide, says Stephan Exo-Kreischer, Director of ONE Germany. The organisation specialises in political campaigning as a lever for sustainable change.

The Big Bang is possible

Interview with Joachim von Braun

Happy youngsters in rural areas, green development and the connection to the digital age – professor Joachim von Braun believes in this future sceneraio for Africa. For three decades the agricultural scienties has been researching how politics can create prosperty on the continent.

More than just a seat at the table

A contribution by Welthungerhilfe

Africa is home to the world’s youngest and fastest growing population. For many young people, agriculture could offer a job perspective. But to improve the living conditions and job prospects of young people in rural areas, political reforms and investments are desperately needed, as these people will be at the centre of agriculture and agricultural development in the future.

An opportunity for the continent

A contribution by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

Africa’s population is young and ready to take its destiny into its own hands. Agriculture offers amazing opportunities in this regard. The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation wants to support the next generation in this way.

Do we have to dare a new food system?

A contribution by Dr. Felix zu Löwenstein (BÖLW)

Lack of seasonal workers and virus explosion in slaughterhouses, rising vegetable prices, climate crisis – all this demonstrates: Our food system is highly productive and (at least for the rich inhabitants of planet earth) guarantees an unprecedented rich and steady food supply - but it is not resilient.

The Life of Their Dreams - What Children Want

Interview with Gnininkaboka Dabiré and Innocent Somé

Later on you want to become a farmer yourself, or would you prefer to take up another profession? Two young people from Burkina-Faso talked to representatives of the Dreyer Foundation about their parents' farms, the profession of farmer and their own plans for the future.

An investment in Africa's future

A contritbution by Essa Chanie Mussa (University of Gondar)

Rural youth need viable livelihood opportunities to escape out of poverty and realize their aspirations. How could they be helped to fully unleash their potential? This is an aloud call that needs novel strategies among governments, policy makers, and international development partners and donors.

“They said: You can do it”

A contribution by Bread for the World

As President of the IABM cooperative in Muhanga, Alphonsine Mukankusi is not simply focused on the figures. She has learned how to deal with people and how to take on responsibility. At the same time, her work helps her to come to terms with the past

Read more “They said: You can do it”

"Extreme is the new normal"

A report by Alexander Müller and Jes Weigelt (TMG)

As the climate changes, the population of Africa is growing and fertile land and jobs are becoming scarcer. New ways are currently leading to urbanisation of agriculture and a new mid-sized sector in the countryside

How do you campaign “Food Systems”?

Interview with Paul Newnham, Director of the SDG 2 Advocacy Hub.

The UN Food Systems pre-Summit in Rome dealt with transforming the ways of our nutrition. How do you bring that to a broad public? Questions to Paul Newnham, the Director of the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2 Advocacy Hub.

UNFSS Pre-Summit: What did it achieve?

Interview with Martina Fleckenstein (WWF), Michael Kühn (WHH) and Christel Weller-Molongua (GIZ)

After the summit means pre-summit: It was the first time that the United Nations held a summit on food systems. Martina Fleckenstein, Michael Kühn and Christel Weller-Molongua reviewed the situation in this joint interview.

How Can We Feed The World in Times of Climate Change?

A Contribution by Jan Grossarth

Genetically modified bacteria become edible proteins, cows graze on pasture, and no waste is produced in an industrial circular economy. Journalist Jan Grossarth sees a silver lining for the future of world nutrition

Youth Employment in Rural Areas

The world’s population keeps on growing; with this rise comes an increased need for food as well as productive employment opportunities. Offering young people in rural areas better employment prospects is one of the objectives of the sector project. The young population is the key to a modern and efficient agricultural economy.

A project of GIZ

‘Invite yourself’ – Farmers organisations as key stakeholders of food systems

A Contribution by Andreas-Hermes-Akademie

The Andreas Hermes Academy (AHA) discusses the transformation of food systems with 30 representatives of farmers organisations.

German G7 Presidency – fighting hunger with all our might

A Contribution by Welthungerhilfe

In the run-up to the G7 summit, experts from politics and civil society discussed sustainable and more effective options for action by the G7 states to combat hunger.

Digitalization: The Driving Force in the Future of Agriculture?

A Contribution by GIZ

At the ICTforAg conference in March 2022, the digital agriculture community exchanged on the challenges and opportunities associated with the next green revolution.

"Pandemic increases violence against women"

Interview with Léa Rouanet

African countries still face huge gender gaps in terms of access to work and capital. What are the consequences of Corona for women in Africa? Jan Rübel interviewed Léa Rouanet on lockdowns and gender-based violence. The economist works at the Africa Gender Innovation Lab of the World Bank.

5 Questions for Gunther Beger (BMZ): What must be done?

Interview with Gunther Beger (BMZ)

How much will it cost to sustainably end world hunger by 2030? This question was posed by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) that commissioned two research teams with finding an answer. The results of the studies will be presented on October 13 in the run-up to World Food Day.

'It has never been more possible'

Interview with Carin Smaller (Ceres2030)

Over a period of two years, the Ceres2030 team spent researching answers to the questions of how much it will how much it will cost to realize SDG 2 and where that money should be spent most effectively. IISD Senior Advisor and Ceres2030 Co-director Carin Smaller about small farmers, machine learning and women empowerment.

Is the international community still on track in the fight against hunger?

Interview with Miriam Wiemers (Welthungerhilfe)

The Global Hunger Index (GHI) 2020 shows that the world is not on track to meet the international goal of “zero hunger by 2030”. If we continue at our current speed, around 37 countries will not even have reached a low hunger level by 2030.

"Agricultural research unties the Gordian knot"

Interview with World Bank Vice President Voegele

The CGIAR agricultural research organization is systematically repositioning itself. We spoke with Juergen Voegele, Vice President for Sustainable Development at the World Bank, about progress to date - and discuss what needs to be done collectively to stop global hunger in ten years.

GFFA 2021 focussed on climate and COVID-19

A report by David Sahay (Zeitenspiegel)

110 speakers from 120 countries met virtually at the Global Forum for Food and Agriculture (GFFA) to discuss the challenges to global food supply. They asked the question: How can food systems support the health of people and the planet?

“We have to prepare for the unexpected”

Interview with Dr Maria Flachsbarth (BMZ)

In August, Germany’s development ministry set up a division concentrating on One Health topics. Parliamentary State Secretary Maria Flachsbarth on knowledge gaps at the human-animal-environmental interface, the link between One Health and food security, and lessons learnt from previous pandemics.

5 Questions for Jann Lay: What is Corona doing to the economy?

Interview with Jann Lay (GIGA)

The Corona pandemic is hitting economies around the world very hard - but developments in African countries are quite diverse. There are different speeds, resiliences and vulnerabilities. What are the reasons for this? Apl. Prof. Jann Lay of the GIGA Institute provides answers.

"Farmers are smart"

Interview with Maria Andrade

From the lab to the masses: Maria Andrade bred varieties of biofortified sweet potatoes which are now widely used all over the continent. She sets her hope on the transformation of African agriculture.

Leveraging investment impacts

A contribution by Heike Baumüller, Christine Husmann, Julia Machovsky-Smid, Oliver Kirui, Justice Tambo

Any initiative whose aim is to reduce poverty in Africa should focus first on agriculture. But what kind of investment has the greatest impact? The use of scientific criteria provides some answers.

Small-scale farmers’ responses to COVID-19 related restrictions

A study by SLE

The lockdown due to COVID-19 hit the economy hard - including agriculture in particular with its supply chains and sales markets. What creative coping strategies have those affected found? The Seminar for Rural Development has begun a research study on th

"We must mobilise all available resources"

A contribution by Ismahane Elouafi (ICBA)

Freshwater deficits are affecting more and more people throughout the world. In order to counter this, our global food system will have to change, our author maintains. A case for more research on alternative crops and smart water solutions.

ONE WORLD no hunger - Meet the people driving rural transformation

A program by the partners of the special initiative One World no Hunger

The future is rural. On September 24, meet leaders and visionaries from Africa and South Asia who will enter into dialogue with european key actors.

Join uns here to meet the people.

The Rice Sector in West Africa: A Political Challenge

New insights on trade and value addition in the rice sector in West Africa

Low import tariffs, smuggling activities, unpredictable tax exemptions and weak enforcement of food safety standards: The potential of local rice value chains is undermined in West African countries.

City, Country, Sea: 6 Innovations in the Fight Against Climate Change

A listicle for climate-neutral agriculture

Vertically growing plants, magnetic cotton. Hairy leftovers fertilizing fields, tractors running on algae? These six innovations could lead agriculture’s next Green Revolution!

What is Our Food Worth to Us?

A Contribution by the TMG Think Tank for Sustainability

Towards integrated accounting standards in the food and farming sector with the help of True Cost Accounting (TCA).

COVID-19 and Rising Food Prices: What’s Really Happening?

A Contribution by IFPRI

Taking a look at the data (as of February 11th 2022) what the current price hike means for world hunger and what can be done to prevent from another food crisis.

For a just transition to a sustainable planet we must secure land rights

A contribution by TMG

At the UNCCD COP15, the Töpfer Müller Gaßner Think Tank (TMG) hosted four side events. The agenda of the kick-off event included discussions for the Human Rights and Land Navigator.

A New Mindset to Reform Agriresearch

A Contribution by Lennart Woltering (CGIAR)

In context of the 15th CGIAR System Council Meeting, Lennart Woltering shares his assessment of the ongoing One CGIAR reform process.

Diversity Is the Fundamental Principle to Use

An Interview with Shakuntala Thilsted

A conversation with aquatic researcher Shakuntala Thilsted on the long-neglected nutrition benefits of aquatic diets and the empowering qualities of a sustainable aqua-food systems transformation.

"Soy can be made into more than just flour"

A report by Johanna Steinkühler (GIZ)

The soybean is a natural crop that can be used to make a lot of food. So, Tata Bi started a small processing business first on her own, then with a few other women, which provides the women with an additional source of income year-round besides selling the soybeans.

"Without peace, there will be no development"

Interview with Karina Mroß (DIE)

What contribution does development cooperation make to conflict prevention? What can it do for sustainable peace? Political scientist Karina Mroß talks to Raphael Thelen about post-conflict societies and their chances for peaceful development.

Spiritual mortar for the young generation

A contribution by Jan Rübel

Fred Swaniker is working building a new era of leaders. And what about agriculture? ‘It needs to be more sexy!’

The 'Grey Gold'

A contribution by Maria Schmidt (GIZ)

The Cashew Council is the first international organisation for a raw material stemming from Africa. The industry promises to make progress in processing and refining cashew nuts - and answers to climate change

No rainforest for our consumption

A contribution by Jenny Walther-Thoß (WWF)

In the tropics rainforests are still being felled for the production of palm oil, meat and furniture. It is high time to act. Proposals are on the table.

Sustainable Artisanal Fisheries and Aquaculture in Rural Areas

Fish is important for combating malnutrition and undernourishment. But it is not only notable for its nutritional value, but also secures the livelihoods and employment for 600 million people worldwide.

A Project of GIZ



A new attempt at Africa's industrialization?

The refugee crisis shed a completely new light on the issue of jobs in Africa

Planning has become harder rather than easier

One of the most exciting development policy challenges for some time to come

Similar articles

Interview with Sebastian Lesch (BMZ)

By Anna Sophia Rainer

GIZ study; conducted by Geopoll

Interview with Shenggen Fan

By Pedro Morazán

By Marcellin Boguy

A report by T. S. Jayne, A. Adelaja and R. Mkandawire

A video clip by Seedstars

A contribution by Jan Rübel

A contribution by Heike Baumüller

An interactive graphic Jan Rübel

A contribution by Solomon King Benge

Interview with Jehiel Oliver

A contribution by Sarah D´haen & Alexander Müller, Louisa Nelle, Bruno St. Jaques, Sarah Kirangu-Wissler and Matteo Lattanzi (TMG)

A contribution by Tanja Reith

A contribution by the World Food Programme

Video by Frank Schultze and Jan Rübel

Interview with Joe DeVries (AGRA)

Interview with Stefan Liebing

A contribution by Michel Bernhardt (GIZ)

A contribution by Beatrice Gakuba (AWAN-AFRIKA)

A contribution by German Agribusiness Alliance

A report by Stig Tanzmann

A contribution by Michael Brüntrup (DIE)

Interview with Stig Tanzmann (BfdW)

A contribution by Jan Rübel

A contribution by Claudia Voß

Von Marlis Lindecke

By Tilman Wörtz

Interview with Lutz Hartmann

Discussion about the potential supply chain law

A contribution by Jochen Moninger

A debate between Lena Luig and Ludger Weß

A contribution by Friederieke Martin (GIZ)

By Jan Rübel

A contribution by Dr. Jan Orbie (University Gent)

A contribution by Heino von Meyer

A contribution by Michael Windfuhr (German Institute for Human Rights)

A report by Dr. Agnes Kalibata (AGRA)

A contribution by Agnes Kalibata

An interview with David Brand (GIZ)

A contribution by GIZ

A Contribution by WWF

A Contribution by GIZ

A Multimedia-Toolbox by GIZ

Interview with Marvin Antonio Garcia Otero

Interview with Arif Husain (WFP)

Interview with Reiner Klingholz

Interview with Stephan Exo-Kreischer

Interview with Joachim von Braun

A contribution by Welthungerhilfe

A contribution by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

A contribution by Dr. Felix zu Löwenstein (BÖLW)

Interview with Gnininkaboka Dabiré and Innocent Somé

A contritbution by Essa Chanie Mussa (University of Gondar)

A contribution by Bread for the World

A report by Alexander Müller and Jes Weigelt (TMG)

Interview with Paul Newnham, Director of the SDG 2 Advocacy Hub.

Interview with Martina Fleckenstein (WWF), Michael Kühn (WHH) and Christel Weller-Molongua (GIZ)

A Contribution by Jan Grossarth

A Contribution by Andreas-Hermes-Akademie

A Contribution by Welthungerhilfe

A Contribution by GIZ

Interview with Léa Rouanet

Interview with Gunther Beger (BMZ)

Interview with Carin Smaller (Ceres2030)

Interview with Miriam Wiemers (Welthungerhilfe)

Interview with World Bank Vice President Voegele

A report by David Sahay (Zeitenspiegel)

Interview with Dr Maria Flachsbarth (BMZ)

Interview with Jann Lay (GIGA)