By Tandzile Dlamini (Intern)
MBABANE – In a significant stride toward agricultural transformation, African Union (AU) member states gathered in Mbabane, for the AU Learning and Planning Meeting on Seed Systems and Trade Harmonization. Dr. Clement Adjorlolo of the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) delivered a powerful speech outlining the achievements and bold vision of the Kampala CAADP Strategy and Action Plan (2025–2035) for the continent’s seed sector April 15, 2025.
Reflecting on over two decades of progress under the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP), Dr. Adjorlolo celebrated Africa’s increased political will, national investment, and ownership in agricultural development. “Agriculture is no longer an afterthought. It is now central to our economic and political agenda,” he stated.
With 45 countries having signed CAADP compacts and 35 developing National Agricultural Investment Plans (NAIPs), Africa is building a unified, accountable, and future focused on agricultural landscape.
However, Dr. Adjorlolo did not shy away from the challenges,as he addressed the gaps in financing, policy coordination, monitoring systems, and gender inclusivity.
What stood out most was the roadmap for the future. The Kampala CAADP Strategy sets out six strategic objectives to drive food production, agro-industrialization, investment, inclusivity, resilience, and governance. The seed sector plays a impotant role in each.
Among the ambitious interventions are the promotion of indigenous seeds, the enforcement of seed quality standards, and the harmonization of seed trade policies under the African Continental Free Trade Area. The plan also emphasizes bio fortified seeds for nutrition, climate-resilient varieties, and gender-responsive policies that empower women and youth in seed entrepreneurship.
Seeds are the bedrock of our food systems,” Dr. Adjorlolo emphasized. “By prioritizing seed systems, we unlock productivity, nutrition, trade, and sustainability across the continent “he stated.
The meeting underscores Africa’s commitment to building resilient, inclusive, and innovative agriculture food systems that can withstand future shocks and feed generations to come. With renewed leadership, harmonized policy frameworks, and robust investments, the continent is sowing the seeds of a green revolution one tailored for Africa, by Africa.
