Africa’s Green Revolution threatens traditional foods
Summary
AGRA, the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa, is marking 20 years of promoting commercial seeds and fertilizers to improve farming. However, new research shows its focus on maize has reduced land and investment for traditional African crops like millet, which are more resilient and nutritious. Hunger and undernourishment rates have increased in countries working with AGRA, despite its efforts.Key Facts
- AGRA was created to improve Africa’s food systems through commercial farming inputs like seeds and fertilizers.
- Maize production has doubled in countries involved with AGRA, but yields have grown only modestly.
- Traditional crops such as millet, sorghum, cassava, and groundnuts have lost land and investment since AGRA began in 2006.
- Millet production has decreased by 27% and its yields dropped 17%, while maize land increased by 71% and maize production more than doubled.
- Millet and other traditional crops are drought-tolerant and nutritious, important for food security in harsh climates.
- Hunger and undernourishment have increased by about 60% in countries where AGRA operates, matching the continental trend.
- The UN has emphasized the importance of affordable, healthy diets, which include diverse crops rather than monocultures.
- Crop diversity helps protect soil health and reduces risk by ensuring some crops survive drought or pests.
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