On April 12, 2023, Samantha Power, the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), met with the Board of Directors of AGRA (Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa) to discuss the role of AGRA in the new U.S.-Africa strategic partnership launched at the Africa Leaders Summit in December 2022, and how it could help address the global food security crisis. The meeting was attended by distinguished members such as AGRA Board Chair Hailemariam Dessalegn, Rodger Voorhies, President of Global Growth & Opportunity Division at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, AGRA President Dr. Agnes Kalibata, and AGRA Vice President Vanessa Adams.
AGRA has been instrumental in promoting sustainable agricultural practices, increasing productivity and incomes for smallholder farmers, and boosting food security in Africa. Administrator Power expressed her appreciation for the work being done by AGRA and highlighted the importance of evidence-based policies and approaches, increased investments in research and development, and the importance of engaging youth, women, and other vulnerable groups in the agriculture value chain.
The meeting provided an opportunity for Administrator Power to highlight the new USAID Policy Framework, which aims to put people and partnerships at the center of development, increase local ownership and sustainability, and leverage innovative technologies and partnerships to drive impact and scale. AGRA is a critical partner for USAID in achieving these goals, and Administrator Power expressed her commitment to working with AGRA to support the African agriculture sector’s growth and development.
AGRA Board Chair Hailemariam Dessalegn expressed his gratitude to Administrator Power and USAID for their continued support and partnership with AGRA. He highlighted the importance of strengthening public-private partnerships to drive sustainable agricultural growth and food security, and the need to ensure that smallholder farmers have access to the tools and resources they need to thrive.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to working together to achieve a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous future for African agriculture. The collaboration between USAID and AGRA, along with other partners in the public and private sectors, will be critical in achieving these goals and ensuring a brighter future for the continent. The meeting was a significant step towards addressing the global food security crisis and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in Africa.