How Africa’s food systems forum 2023 will unleash economic opportunities, investment potential
TANZANIA is set to host the highly anticipated Africa’s Food Systems Forum 2023 Summit in Dar es Salaam this September.
This prestigious event will not only position Tanzania as a hub for agricultural innovation and sustainable food systems but it will also unleash significant economic opportunities and attract valuable investments.
With its diverse agricultural landscape, commitment to sustainable practices, and strategic location, Tanzania is poised to showcase its potential as a key player in Africa’s food industry.
Showcasing Tanzania’s agricultural potential
Tanzania boasts abundant natural resources and a favorable climate, making it an agricultural powerhouse in Africa. The Africa’s Food Systems Forum 2023 Summit provides an ideal platform to showcase the country’s rich agricultural potential, including its vast arable land, diverse crop production, and potential for agro-processing industries. With over 44 million hectares of fertile land available, Tanzania offers immense opportunities for agricultural investment and increased productivity.
Investment opportunities in agriculture and agribusiness
Hosting of the summit will attract a diverse range of stakeholders, including financial Institutions, policymakers, researchers, investors and entrepreneurs from across the continent and beyond.
This convergence of experts presents an excellent opportunity for Tanzania to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in agriculture and agribusiness sectors. Investments in areas such as modern farming techniques, agricultural infrastructure, research and development, value chain development, and agro-processing will create jobs, enhance food security, and drive economic growth.
Boosting value-added agro-processing industries
The Africa’s Food Systems Forum 2023 Summit will emphasise the importance of value addition and agro-processing in promoting sustainable food systems. Tanzania, with its vast agricultural resources, can leverage this opportunity to develop and expand its agro-processing industries.
Value addition initiatives, such as food processing, packaging, and preservation, will not only enhance the value of agricultural produce but also create a robust agribusiness ecosystem and contribute to export diversification.
Strengthening supply chain and logistics infrastructure
Hosting the summit will draw attention to Tanzania’s logistics and supply chain infrastructure, a crucial factor for efficient food systems. This event presents an ideal platform to showcase the ongoing investments and improvements in transport networks, cold storage facilities, and trade corridors, strengthening Tanzania’s position as a regional trade hub.
Improved infrastructure will facilitate the movement of agricultural products within the country and enable seamless trade connections with neighbouring countries and international markets.
Technology and innovation in agriculture
The Africa’s Food Systems Forum 2023 Summit will highlight the role of technology and innovation in transforming agriculture and promoting sustainable food systems. Tanzania, with its growing digital landscape and emerging technology startups, can seize this opportunity to showcase its innovative solutions in precision agriculture, farm management systems, market linkage platforms, and data-driven decision-making. This will not only attract investments in agri-tech but also accelerate the adoption of modern practices and improve productivity in the sector.
Employment generation and poverty alleviation
The agricultural sector is a major employer in Tanzania, providing livelihood opportunities for a significant portion of the population, particularly in rural areas. The increased investments resulting from the summit will lead to job creation and income generation across the value chain.
By fostering inclusive growth and empowering smallholder farmers, Tanzania can make significant strides in poverty alleviation and contribute to the overall socio-economic development of the country.
To sum it up, the Africa’s Food Systems Forum 2023 Summit, offers a unique opportunity to showcase the country’s agricultural potential, attract investments, and promote sustainable food systems.
By leveraging this event, Tanzania can stimulate economic growth, enhance food security, and position itself as a regional leader in agriculture and agribusiness. The summit’s outcomes will pave the way for transformative investments, technological advancements, and improved market linkages, ultimately benefiting Tanzania’s economy and its people.
