Innovations Session N°25

Africa’s agrifood sector is entering a decisive decade of transformation, driven by demographic growth, technological innovation, environmental pressures, and changing consumer preferences. By 2050, the continent’s population will exceed 2.5 billion, with over 60 % of food demand coming from urban consumers. This shift is reshaping value chains, consumption habits, and innovation priorities. At the same time, climate change is intensifying risks. Yields for major staple crops in Sub-Saharan Africa could decline by 10–20 % by 2050 under current warming trajectories. Extreme weather, soil degradation, and water stress are forcing farmers and SMEs to adopt new technologies and resilient business models. Food safety has become equally urgent: over 90 million Africans fall ill each year from foodborne diseases. Compliance with sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) standards, traceability systems, and quality regulations is now essential for both public health and trade competitiveness.

In this rapidly changing environment, forecast provides entrepreneurs and policymakers with tools to anticipate disruptions, identify emerging opportunities, and design future-ready strategies for inclusive and sustainable growth.