By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian
More than 400 key figures in digital agriculture are set to gather at the 8th Annual Learning Event (ALE) to explore innovative solutions for Africa’s farming challenges. Discussions will focus on leveraging AI and alternative data to scale tech-driven solutions for smallholder farmers and enhance productivity in rural economies.
The event will also explore financing models that support climate-smart agriculture startups and examine regulatory frameworks to foster a more inclusive digital agricultural ecosystem.
Mercy Corps AgriFin Hosts 8th Annual Learning Event in Nairobi
Mercy Corps AgriFin, in partnership with various organizations, will host the 8th Annual Learning Event (ALE) in Nairobi from October 15-16. Themed “Enabling Rural Economies: Creating Lasting Impact for the Digital Ecosystem in Africa,” the event will bring together over 400 participants, including digital agriculture service providers, government officials, investors, and donors.
The two-day event aims to address the challenges and opportunities facing startups, small-scale producers, and key stakeholders in the sector.
Spotlight on Advanced Technologies and Rural Economies
Grace Njoroge, Technical Director of Programs at Mercy Corps AgriFin, highlighted the significance of the event. “This year’s AgriFin Learning Event will showcase emerging pathways to drive the adoption and scalability of tech-driven solutions for smallholder farmers in Africa. We will also explore the role of AI and alternative data in creating lasting impacts for rural economies,” she said.
Key partners such as FSD Tanzania, The World Bank, Farm to Market Alliance, and others will join Mercy Corps AgriFin in driving discussions aimed at advancing innovation and growth in Africa’s digital agriculture space.
Navigating Africa’s AgTech and FinTech Challenges
While African AgTech and FinTech startups have made strides, they still face significant hurdles in scaling their operations and supporting small-scale producers. This year’s ALE will provide a platform for stakeholders to reflect on lessons learned, share success stories, and forge new pathways for the digital agriculture sector.
The event comes at a crucial time as Africa grapples with challenges around food security, climate resilience, and equitable access to markets and technology.
AI and Alternative Data: Revolutionizing Smallholder Farming
A key focus of ALE 2024 will be the role of AI and alternative data in improving smallholder farming. Discussions will explore how AI can provide farmers with vital information and access to digital financial services, while public sector data will also be examined for its potential to support these efforts.
Financing Climate-Smart Startups and Regulatory Challenges
The event will also explore new financing strategies for climate-smart agriculture startups, which often face difficulties in accessing the capital needed to scale. Investors and financial institutions will have the opportunity to discuss models for supporting these critical enterprises.
Regulatory policies will also be a major topic, as participants examine how governments can create an enabling environment for startups by addressing challenges like data privacy and encouraging sustainable innovation.
With over 400 participants expected, AgriFin 2024 promises to be a key event in shaping the future of digital agriculture across Africa.
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