Challenges Facing Farmers in Southern Africa: A Call for Action at APPSA Conference
Farmers across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region are grappling with numerous challenges that are severely impacting agricultural productivity, food security, and economic stability. This alarming statement was made by Mr. Sostino Mocumbe, the Information, Communication, and Knowledge Management Officer of the Centre for Coordination of Agricultural Research and Development for Southern Africa (CCARDESA), during a presentation at the ongoing second Agricultural Productivity Programme for Southern Africa (APPSA) conference, currently hosted by Lesotho. The conference, which will run until Friday, brings together agricultural experts and stakeholders from the region to discuss pressing issues affecting the sector.
Mr. Mocumbe highlighted the complex and multifaceted nature of the challenges facing farmers, ranging from climate change and unreliable rainfall patterns to inadequate access to modern farming techniques, financial resources, and markets. These challenges have led to reduced agricultural productivity, making it difficult for farmers to meet local food demands and contribute to economic growth.
“The agricultural sector in the SADC region is at a crossroads,” said Mocumbe. “Farmers are facing environmental, financial, and social challenges that are limiting their capacity to increase food production. These issues not only affect food security but also undermine the economic stability of the entire region.”
The presentation focused on how these challenges are interconnected and compounded by other factors such as limited infrastructure, poor access to information and technology, and the lack of supportive policies and institutions. Mocumbe emphasized that addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive, regional approach, involving collaboration between governments, development partners, and the private sector.
The ongoing APPSA conference is an important platform for discussing potential solutions to these issues, with various stakeholders working together to share knowledge, best practices, and research that could help transform the agricultural landscape in Southern Africa. Mocumbe called for stronger regional cooperation and investment in agricultural research and development to build resilience within the farming communities and ensure long-term food security in the region.
As the conference continues, participants are expected to explore innovative solutions and strategies that can help farmers overcome these challenges, boost agricultural productivity, and enhance food security in the Southern African region.
