Your Excellencies, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Honorable Ministers, Distinguished Delegates, Representatives of Regional and International Organizations, Members of the Private Sector and Academia, Esteemed Farmers and Innovators, Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is my profound honour to welcome you to the inaugural African Union Digital Agriculture Conference

Today marks a defining moment in our shared journey a moment to transform Africa’s agricultural systems and secure the future of food, prosperity, and sustainability for generations to come.

Agriculture is the backbone of Africa’s socio-economic foundation.

It provides livelihoods for over 60 percent of our population and contributes up to a quarter of national GDPs. Yet, its full potential remains constrained by persistent challenges:
• Climate change
• Land degradation
• Limited access to markets and inputs
• And the worrying trend of youth turning away from agriculture hence Africa remains food insecure. This must Change!!!

At this pivotal moment, digital agriculture is not an option—it is a necessity. It is the key to boosting productivity, reducing losses, expanding access to finance and markets, and building resilience.
We live in an era defined by technological advancement—where data, artificial intelligence, satellite imaging, mobile platforms, and precision farming are transforming industries worldwide. Africa must not stand at the periphery of this transformation.

In February 2023, the African Union adopted the Digital Agriculture Strategy a continental framework to close connectivity gaps, foster innovation ecosystems, and accelerate our shift toward smarter, more efficient agricultural systems. Today’s conference is a critical step in making that vision a reality.

Over the coming days, we will:
• Share knowledge on emerging technologies
• Showcase successful home-grown solutions
• Provide options on how to harmonize regulatory environments
• Build pathways for investment and partnerships

Above all, we aim to generate concrete policy directions and actionable commitments to accelerate digital transformation across our Member States. Guided by Agenda 2063, and the CAADP Kampala Declaration on Agrifood System Transformation we envision:
• Smart value chains that reduce inefficiencies
• Climate-resilient farming supported by real-time analysis
• Integrated platforms connecting farmers to finance and markets

Women and youth will remain at the heart of this transformation.

My Department reaffirms its commitment to digital transformation as a cornerstone for agricultural modernization, food security, and sustainable growth. We have an ambition; 45% of Agrifood must come from Africa by 2030. Digital transformation ought to assist Africa in that regards.

Let this conference be the beginning of a continental movement, one that ensures digital agriculture becomes a lived reality for our youths, farmers, agribusinesses, and communities across Africa.

Together, let us harness technology and innovation to secure Africa’s food systems, empower our citizens, and strengthen our resilience.

I thank you and wish us all fruitful deliberations.