Agricultural transformation and development in Sub-Saharan Africa: Experiences and policy implications from the Asian green revolution

Abstract

This review paper employs population and structuralism theories to analyse agricultural transformation in Sub-Saharan Africa, taking a broader continental approach. It also draws lessons from the Asian green revolution of the 1960s. The review finds that the population in Sub-Saharan Africa is increasing, leading to a corresponding rise in food demand. However, agricultural transformation has been limited due to several challenges including low government spending on agricultural interventions and research; inadequate extension service delivery; poor land use governance; insufficient agro-processing and value addition; limited investment; and climate change. Moreover, the Asian Green Revolution demonstrates that even densely populated regions can achieve agricultural transformation through increased productivity. The review concludes that agricultural transformation cannot occur without increased agricultural productivity accompanying structural economic changes. It emphasizes that agricultural transformation and structural economic transformation must progress concurrently. The review offers policy recommendations, stressing the need for strong political will and governments’ commitment to drive agricultural transformation in Sub-Saharan Africa.