Biotechnology Adoption in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

The majority of Africans still live in rural areas, and an astonishing one in three Africans, or 215 million people, are malnourished. At the same time, eleven African countries use less than half the arable land within their borders (Economist). 62% of Africa's population (excluding South Africa) works in agriculture, generating 27% of these countries' GDP. An astonishing 80% of Africans depend on subsistence agriculture to provide food for their families (Bunting). An agriculture-led strategy for economic growth is one of the best ways to alleviate poverty on the continent. Not only are the direct effects powerful due to the huge number of Africans employed in agriculture, but the indirect effects of improved agricultural output and efficiency can also have a multiplier effect on the economy. Increased production can lower staple food prices, increasing purchasing power parity for consumers thereby allowing Africans to divert spending onto other products. A more reliable food system increases political stability and the welfare of the general population. In many of the faster growing African countries over the last few decades, agricultural growth rates were highly correlated with overall GDP growth. This paper will examine how technology transfers can improve agricultural productivity on the African continent, being sensitive to problems associated with each proposed solution. Through several case studies, this report will provide a comprehensive overview of the current obstacles and available solutions that shape national and international policy decisions.