African Association of Agricultural Economists Conference 2019: A Recap and Reflection

The African Association of Agricultural Economists (AAAE) Conference 2019 served as a dynamic platform for stakeholders across the agricultural landscape to convene and deliberate on the pressing issues and emerging trends shaping the future of agriculture in Africa. This pivotal event provided a space for researchers, policymakers, and development practitioners to share insights, foster collaborations, and chart a course towards a more sustainable and prosperous future for African agriculture.

Unveiling the Theme: “Transforming African Agriculture for Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development”

At the heart of the AAAE Conference 2019 was the overarching theme of transformation. The conference sought to delve into the multifaceted challenges and opportunities inherent in achieving inclusive growth and sustainable development within the African agricultural sector.

Key Focus Areas: Navigating the Complexities of Agricultural Transformation

The conference agenda encompassed a broad spectrum of topics, each meticulously curated to address the core tenets of the overarching theme. These key focus areas included:

• Climate-Smart Agriculture: Exploring innovative farming practices and technologies to mitigate the impacts of climate change on agricultural productivity and resilience.
• Agricultural Finance and Investment: Examining strategies to enhance access to finance for smallholder farmers and attract private sector investment in agricultural value chains.
• Value Chain Development and Market Access: Analyzing approaches to strengthen agricultural value chains, improve market access for smallholder farmers, and enhance the competitiveness of African agricultural products.
• Land Governance and Tenure Security: Addressing critical issues related to land rights, tenure security, and responsible land management practices for sustainable agricultural development.

Engaging Discourse: Panel Discussions, Presentations, and Networking Opportunities

The AAAE Conference 2019 buzzed with energy as attendees participated in a dynamic program of events. Expert-led panel discussions provided a forum for in-depth analysis of critical issues, while individual presentations showcased cutting-edge research and innovative solutions. Crucially, dedicated networking sessions fostered valuable connections among participants, paving the way for future collaborations and partnerships.

“The AAAE Conference provided an invaluable opportunity to connect with fellow researchers and practitioners who are equally passionate about driving positive change in African agriculture. The exchange of ideas and experiences was truly enriching.” – Dr. Aminata Diallo, Agricultural Economist

A Call to Action: Charting a Collective Path Towards a Thriving Agricultural Sector

The AAAE Conference 2019 concluded with a resounding call to action, urging all stakeholders to work collaboratively in translating research findings into tangible policy recommendations and practical interventions. The conference emphasized the importance of:

• Strengthening institutional capacity: Building robust institutions and governance structures to support agricultural development and ensure effective policy implementation.
• Empowering women and youth: Recognizing the critical role of women and youth in agriculture and fostering their full participation in the sector.
• Promoting knowledge sharing and technology transfer: Facilitating the dissemination of knowledge, best practices, and innovative technologies to empower farmers and enhance productivity.

The AAAE Conference 2019 served as a powerful reminder of the pivotal role agriculture plays in driving economic growth, ensuring food security, and improving livelihoods across Africa. By embracing innovation, fostering collaboration, and prioritizing inclusive and sustainable practices, stakeholders can collectively work towards transforming African agriculture into a vibrant and resilient engine for prosperity.