AGRA 20 Years of Impact

20 Years of Impact

In 2026, AGRA celebrates 20 years since Kofi Annan ignited a bold vision: a continent where agriculture fuels prosperity, opportunity, and resilience for millions of smallholder farmers.

Over two decades, we have partnered with governments, farmers, research institutions, the private sector, and development partners to strengthen the foundations of Africa’s food systems.

AGRA@20 is a milestone of reflection and renewal. It honors two decades of advancing Africa’s food systems, while charting a bolder path for the future of food systems transformation across the continent.

THEN – The Founding Vision

In 2006, AGRA was established in response to a continental imperative: to accelerate the advancement of food systems by addressing critical constraints facing smallholder farmers.

“Let us generate a uniquely African green revolution - a revolution that is long overdue, a revolution that will help the continent in its quest for dignity and peace.”
Kofi Annan

From its inception, AGRA’s intent has remained constant: to improve lives by transforming Africa’s food systems.

Present Day – A Defining Moment

Africa’s food system is projected to reach USD 1 trillion by 2030. AGRA sits at the centre of this transition, as a trusted catalyst. We support governments, facilitate private sector engagement, and scale proven solutions in seeds, soil health, markets, and policy.

Impact – Two Decades of Progress

Expanding access to improved seeds and technologies

Supporting soil health and sustainable farming practices

Strengthening markets and agribusiness ecosystems

Facilitating policy reforms and institutional capacity

Advancing public–private partnerships for delivery

Supporting SMEs and farmer-facing institutions

Reaching the Tipping Point

Agricultural transformation happens when multiple parts of the food system move together.

1. Land productivity

Smallholder farmers reaching viable productivity levels that enable surplus production.

2. Input efficiency

Access to quality seeds, soil health solutions, and extension services.

3. Income stability

Transitioning from subsistence production to reliable agricultural businesses.

4. Market pull

Aggregation, logistics, and private sector participation creating predictable markets.

5. Policy alignment

Governments establishing enabling environments for farmers and investors.

Building the Future

  • A recalibrated Alliance model: Designed for today’s complex global context.
  • Scaling what works: Proof-to-delivery models with measurable national impact.
  • Learning in public: Evidence driven strategies fueled by transparency.

"AGRA@20 marks not only a milestone, but a commitment to apply the lessons of the past two decades with greater focus and renewed urgency."