Experts on Monday gathered in Nairobi for a two-day OECD public–private dialogue aimed at unlocking private sector investment to fast-track growth in Africa’s agrifood sector.
The meeting convened more than 100 stakeholders, spanning government, industry and regional economic bodies. Addressing participants, AfCFTA’s private sector director, Themba Khumalo, warned that Africa’s escalating food import bill is straining public finances and heightening exposure to external shocks, underscoring the need for deeper private sector engagement to boost agricultural output and incomes.
He noted that the AfCFTA framework offers a strategic platform to unlock the continent’s agricultural potential through expanded trade. Romania’s Secretary of State for Agriculture, Florian-Emil Dumitru, highlighted the role of private firms in driving innovation, particularly through climate-smart technologies and mechanisation. Former Nigerian Vice President Yemi Osinbajo added that private investors can partner governments to help smallholder farmers overcome barriers such as limited access to affordable credit and extension services.
Collectively, speakers framed private investment not as an adjunct, but as a cornerstone in building a resilient, productive and sustainable African agrifood economy.