The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF), in collaboration with the African Forum for Agricultural Advisory Services (AFAAS), hosted a key stakeholder event to advance the development of a sustainable Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model for digital agricultural extension services (DAES).
The gathering, held at the Marriott Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos, brought together leaders from the public, private, and development sectors to explore innovative solutions that address the challenges faced by smallholder farmers in Nigeria and contribute to the nation’s food security goals.
Smallholder farmers, who contribute significantly to Nigeria’s food production, face numerous obstacles, including limited access to quality advisory services, fragmented private sector solutions, and underfunded public extension systems. These challenges hinder their adoption of innovative farming practices and efficient market access.
The proposed PPP DAES solution aims to overcome these barriers by ensuring long-term viability through a robust and sustainable business model, tailoring solutions to the specific needs and preferences of smallholder farmers and providing timely and relevant information on agronomy, market opportunities, and financial resources.
This initiative aligns with Nigeria’s agricultural objectives of self-sufficiency and import substitution by prioritizing private sector leadership and driving innovation.
The event showcased findings from a scoping study on effective DAES solutions, highlighting innovative delivery methods that are cost-effective, scalable, and tailored to specific local contexts. Participants explored how these solutions can improve access to real-time, localized support for farmers and agribusinesses, fostering increased productivity, enhanced traceability, and improved market access for key value chains, including maize, cassava, and cocoa.
Key Takeaways:
- Strong Commitment: The Gates Foundation reiterated its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s agricultural transformation and empowering smallholder farmers.
- Focus on Sustainability: Stakeholders reviewed findings from a scoping study and examined operational frameworks and funding models to ensure the long-term financial viability of the DAES system.
- Emphasis on Inclusivity: Discussions highlighted the importance of integrating diverse technologies, such as USSD, IVR, and smartphone applications, to ensure accessibility for all farmers, particularly women and underserved communities.
- Collaborative Action: The event fostered strong collaboration among stakeholders, with commitments from the private sector to co-invest in digital solutions and consensus on key user-centered product features.
Moving Forward:
This convening marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to transform its agricultural sector through innovation and partnership. The insights and commitments garnered from this event will guide the final development of the DAES product profile design with a sustainable business model, unlocking new opportunities for smallholder farmers and fostering economic resilience across the nation.