CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK OF AGRICULTURAL INNOVATION POLICY IN AFRICAN COUNTRIES

Abstract

The aim of the paper is to present a conceptual
framework from which to develop an appropriate innovation
policy in African countries. Particular emphasis is placed on
agricultural innovation, their role in stimulating agribusiness
and the overall development of the African continent.
Increasing food production and bioenergy, improving agricultural
economics, African farmers' incomes, reducing poverty and
adapting to climate change are challenges that can be addressed
or mitigated by innovations in the agricultural sector.
Africa's agriculture is a highly unproductive sector as a result of
lack of appropriate innovative technologies, credit,
infrastructure, lack of knowledge, information and skills.
Agricultural innovations in African countries relate to the
invention of insecticides, resistant varieties, fertilizers, irrigation
pumps, genetic programs, sustainable agricultural practices,
etc. Across Africa, farmers are embracing "climate-smart"
innovations. An example of the response to climate change is the
raising of 200 million new trees.
African countries need to improve educational system
performance, science and technology, institutions, increase financial and human investment to build local technology
capabilities and learn from the experiences of other innovative
regions. Although most African countries have made significant
progress in terms of agricultural innovation, the results are still
not quite satisfactory.