Dr Basera deeply understands the hurdles facing African agriculture. These challenges are not merely obstacles—they are opportunities to create sustainable, inclusive solutions that will drive the continent forward:
Increasingly erratic weather patterns, including prolonged droughts, flooding, and heatwaves, have drastically reduced crop yields and livestock productivity. Smallholder farmers, who make up 80% of agricultural producers, are often the hardest hit due to limited access to climate-resilient practices and technologies.
Access to affordable financing remains one of the biggest barriers for African farmers. Many smallholder farmers lack collateral and credit history. As a result, farmers cannot invest in high-quality seeds, fertilizers, or equipment, limiting their ability to scale their operations.
Outdated farming techniques, limited mechanization, and poor extension services have kept agricultural productivity at a fraction of its potential. Agricultural productivity in Africa is significantly lower than the global average, leading to food insecurity and reduced incomes for farmers.
Africa's agricultural growth is often stifled by insufficient infrastructure. Poor roads, limited storage facilities, and inadequate irrigation systems prevent farmers from maximizing their yields and accessing markets.
Using agriculture as a tool to break the Middle-Income Trap
Driving innovation through agri-tech
Empowering youth and women in farming
Promoting sustainable agricultural practices
Ensuring food security for all