Corteva Agriscience, in partnership with CNBC Africa, recently hosted a live panel discussion in Johannesburg, bringing together influential stakeholders from across the agricultural value chain.
Source: Provided
Discussions explored the transformative role of technology in African agriculture, the future of the seed sector, and the partnerships needed to build more resilient and sustainable food systems.
Wandile Shirobo, senior economist at the Agricultural Business Chamber (Agbiz), says Africa has the potential to become a global agricultural powerhouse, but this will only happen if technology, policy and private sector investment move in the same direction.
“The continent remains vulnerable to climate and economic change, so the focus should be on long-term structural changes rather than short-term interventions,” Shirobo said. “Achieving this goal will center on digital technology, advanced genetics and farmer-focused solutions to increase productivity across African markets.”
Innovation built around farmers’ needs
Abraham Vermeulen, Commercial Director of Corteva Agrisciences Africa Middle East, highlighted the company’s commitment to innovation in seed technology and sustainable farming practices.
“That’s why Corteva Agriscience is focused on driving innovation in seed technology and farming practices. We don’t just make products; we develop technologies that are designed around the real needs of farmers: resilience, reliability, and return on investment. When farmers succeed, the entire agricultural value chain succeeds,” he said.
Vermeulen added that private sector research needs to work in conjunction with a supportive policy environment to derive impact at scale.
Building Africa’s unique scientific research capacity
The Committee reached consensus that the resilience of Africa’s agriculture depends on developing its own research capacity. While global technology is essential, African countries also need to strengthen their own scientific and reproductive capabilities.
“Africa cannot afford to rely on solutions that are not adapted to local realities,” one panelist noted. “Raising agricultural potential requires unique science, unique innovation systems and stronger regional cooperation.”
The panel agreed that technology adoption cannot be seen as a purely technical issue, but also requires political will, investment in education and long-term planning.
Unleash growth through technology and infrastructure
Fadi Mayer, Managing Director of the Bureau of Food and Agriculture Policy (BFAP), highlighted the sector’s performance despite economic challenges.
“Africa’s agricultural sector has shown resilience and dynamism, despite decades of underutilized potential, and is outpacing broader economic growth, particularly in South Africa,” Meyer said. “Improvements in planted area and yields demonstrate the sector’s ability to grow rapidly when technology and infrastructure work together.”
He added: “Although agreements like the African Continental Free Trade Area exist, implementation on the ground, such as logistics, border controls and market access, remains critical. Ultimately, technology adoption, responsive regulation and infrastructure development will be essential to realize Africa’s agricultural potential and contribute to both local food security and export growth.”
Support young emerging farmers
Lebohang Durduru, a successful commercial farmer and CEO of Nkanyezi Group, highlighted the transformative potential of technology and innovation in agriculture, especially for youth and women entering the sector.
“Access to funding and support from organizations like Corteva has enabled me and others to pursue agricultural ventures, demonstrating that this sector can provide viable and sustainable livelihoods,” she said. “Practical guidance and market information are critical. Data-driven insights such as crop performance trends and seasonal forecasts help farmers make informed decisions about what to plant and when.
“While opportunities exist, training and support remain widespread challenges. Expanding access is critical to enabling young emerging farmers to take full advantage of technological advances. This remains a key priority for inclusive growth in agriculture.”
Technology at the heart of Africa’s agricultural future
The discussion highlighted Africa’s immense agricultural potential and positioned technology as central to unlocking it. From gene editing and advanced breeding to sustainable farming practices, these innovations can help farmers increase productivity, become more resilient to climate change, and earn sustainable livelihoods.
“At Corteva, we are committed to long-term investment in Africa. We are committed to working closely with farmers, universities and governments to make cutting-edge technology accessible, practical and impactful,” Vermeulen said. “When farmers thrive, the entire agricultural value chain benefits, creating food security, export opportunities and inclusive growth across the continent.”
