US$5.81mn boost set to drive climate smart farming across Africa

Six African nations, Nigeria, Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, Mozambique and Malawi, are set to benefit from a US$5.81mn grant aimed at improving climate smart agriculture across the continent.

The funding is part of efforts to strengthen food systems and boost productivity in the face of climate challenges.

The initiative is being driven by the Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation with backing from the African Development Bank. A key planning meeting was recently held in Rwanda, bringing together a wide range of stakeholders including research institutions, government officials, private sector players and development partners.

Among those involved are the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, CGIAR centres, and national agricultural research systems. The goal is clear: turn strategy into action and ensure the smooth delivery of practical solutions to farmers.

The US$5.81mn grant, provided by Germany and managed through the AfDB’s Transition Support Facility, will support activities across all six countries. The focus will be on improving seed systems, strengthening institutions, encouraging youth participation in agriculture and expanding digital advisory services.

Speaking at the event, the Chief Agricultural Technologies Officer at AfDB, Mr Innocent Musabyimana, stressed the importance of collaboration. “Strong partnerships are key to scaling agricultural transformation, and this meeting is about moving from planning to accelerated action,” Mr Musabyimana said.

The Rwanda representative of IITA, Mr Matieyedou Konlambigue, highlighted the programme’s impact so far, including the distribution of over 309,000 metric tonnes of certified seeds to farmers.

“TAAT has demonstrated success in strengthening seed systems across Africa, and now we need to scale with speed, promote sustainability, and align implementation and accountability commitments to delivering measurable impact for farmers,” he added.

Ms Rachel Zozo, acting coordinator of the TAAT Programme Management Unit, outlined the priorities ahead. “Our priorities in this phase will be to strengthen seed systems and early generation seed (EGS) production, empower youth and institutions, scale digital agriculture solutions, and enhance collaboration across public and private sectors,” Zozo added.

The meeting concluded with firm implementation plans and a signed agreement to fast track activities, marking a strong step towards building resilient and sustainable agriculture across Africa.