Taking Action: Urgent Need for Agricultural Transformation in Somalia

Somalia heavily relies on agriculture as a means of livelihood for its people. Governments worldwide strive to embrace agricultural transformation initiatives that address hunger and poverty. The use of modern agricultural technologies, including genetically modified seeds and crops, has significantly impacted global agricultural productivity. Technological advancements in the agricultural sector have allowed for increased productivity, reduced production costs, and the accessibility of higher quality and more efficient crops. Agricultural production involves cultivating crops, ensuring the availability of agricultural resources, and producing various agricultural products. The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) was established by EU countries in 1962 to support agricultural transformation, protect farmers’ interests, maintain environmental balance, and ensure reasonable prices for consumers.

Agricultural production requires the utilization of natural resources, technology, skilled labor, and various novel approaches. It is a crucial activity that underpins the global economy due to its vast diversity. Somalia, in particular, is recovering from years of unrest and conflict that have hindered its agricultural sector. The decline in agricultural sector growth has resulted in rising food insecurity, economic volatility, and severe droughts. However, the country has undertaken significant initiatives in state-building, peace processes, governance, institutional reforms, and regional and international partnerships. As Somalia strives to become a debt-free nation free from terrorist groups, it must address the issue of extreme poverty that affects 54.4% of its population. The untapped potential of its agricultural and productive zones can significantly contribute to its economic growth.

Agricultural transformation is crucial for Somalia as it moves away from conventional methods and embraces agribusiness opportunities. Many African nations, including Kenya, have successfully modernized their agricultural industries, contributing to economic development. Somalia can attract foreign direct investment and boost export and import activities through agricultural transformation. To achieve this, Somalia’s National Economic Council emphasizes the importance of agricultural policy reform, farmer protection rights, and agribusiness regulations. Investments in agricultural infrastructure, the use of modern agricultural inputs, training and education for farmers, and promotion of environmental sustainability are essential steps towards agricultural transformation.

It is crucial for all stakeholders, including the public and private sectors, to collaborate and work with international partners to address the challenges faced by Somalia’s agricultural sector. By collectively improving the national economy and eradicating poverty through agricultural sector improvements, Somalia can find long-term solutions to poverty, recurrent droughts, and food insecurity.