Introduction
In the current global context, where food security is becoming increasingly precarious, Africa finds itself at the confluence of extraordinary opportunities and pressing challenges. According to the World Bank, the continent is home to over 60% of the world's uncultivated arable land, representing an untapped potential for sustainable agriculture. However, this potential remains largely underutilised, exacerbating the reliance on food imports while raising questions about access to international markets, particularly the European Union. In this regard, the certification of organic products and exports appears as a strategic lever to maximise economic returns and strengthen food security in Africa.
The Strategic Problem
In the era of globalisation, Africa is significantly dependent on food imports. In 2022, the continent imported approximately 45% of its food needs while possessing vast agricultural resources. This situation is not only alarming but also unsustainable. The current food crisis, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical conflicts, could see African agricultural imports reach an impressive amount of USD 110 billion by 2030, according to estimates from the African Development Bank.
To address this situation, it is crucial to rethink the agricultural strategy of the continent. Access to the European market, known for its strict safety and quality standards, could provide an effective solution to leverage considerations of organic certification and export.
The Agropole Solution
The Agropole model presents itself as an integrated approach that fosters interconnection between small farmers, local and international markets, as well as certification institutions. By facilitating access to training on sustainable agricultural practices and the necessary steps to obtain certifications, this model stimulates the engagement of various actors within the agricultural sector.
The Agropoles, as centres for the exchange of expertise and resources, enable farmers to enhance the quality of their products through improved environmental management. Simultaneously, they bolster the export capacities of African agricultural products, with a particular emphasis on organic certification, which serves as a major conduit for market access to Europe.
Institutional Alignment
GEOTHERMIKI S.A., with a long history since 1984 in the field of sustainable agribusiness, is proud of its recognised expertise and ISO 9001 certification. As part of its project in the Kongo Central region of the Democratic Republic of Congo, GEOTHERMIKI has invested USD 90.6 million to develop 4,000 hectares of arable land, thereby creating 30,000 direct and indirect jobs.
These initiatives extend beyond mere production. They create a multiplier effect on rural development, contributing to poverty reduction and enhancing food security across the continent. The focus on organic farming practices and appropriate certification constitutes a valuable asset in bolstering the competitiveness of African products in the global market.
Key Data
- USD 90.6 million direct investment in agriculture in the DRC.
- 4,000 ha of cultivated land under responsible management.
- 30,000 jobs generated through GEOTHERMIKI's initiatives.
- Projection of African food imports: USD 110 billion by 2030.
Conclusion
In summary, the certification of organic produce and support for small African producers represent avenues to be explored for strengthening African agriculture while meeting the growing demand for organic products in the European market. Partnerships with sovereign wealth funds and institutional investors can provide the necessary resources to expand these production and certification capabilities.
In this regard, a call to action is imperative: to bet on excellence through certifications, mobilise investments, and collaborate with agricultural innovation actors to ensure a prosperous future for agriculture in Africa. Together, we can redefine the continent's potential in a rapidly changing global economy.
