By Jameson
The Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) today commemorated its 20th anniversary with a high-level gathering in Addis Ababa, using the milestone to emphasize the need for scaling practical solutions that enhance farmer incomes, build resilient food systems, expand investable markets, and drive inclusive agricultural transformation across the continent.
Held during AGRA’s Board Retreat in Ethiopia, the AGRA@20 event convened board members, government officials, development partners, private sector players, and research institutions for a forward-looking dialogue on Africa’s agricultural future, with a strong focus on Ethiopia’s role.
The convening was guided by the message that when farmers thrive, Africa thrives. AGRA noted that the anniversary offers a moment to reflect on lessons from the past two decades, engage with country realities and stakeholder perspectives, and outline a more focused agenda for the years ahead.
“As we mark twenty years of AGRA, this is a moment to reflect on our founding vision and honestly assess where Africa’s smallholder farmers stand today, and what that means for the continent’s economies, particularly amid growing global disruptions,” said Alice Ruhweza. “The next phase must prioritize scaling proven solutions through stronger systems, deeper partnerships, and practical approaches that build resilience, widen opportunities, and support inclusive growth.”
The Addis Ababa meeting underscored agriculture as central to Africa’s economic and climate future, with discussions highlighting the need for stronger policy leadership, robust market systems, accessible finance, and innovation that places smallholder farmers at the heart of transformation.
AGRA said its first 20 years have delivered key proof points, partnerships, and practical lessons that now provide a solid foundation for scaling impact. The organization is marking the milestone year through reflection, engagement, and knowledge-sharing aimed at strengthening delivery and deepening understanding of its role as an African-led institution supporting smallholder farmers.
The Addis convening also kicks off a series of engagements in Ethiopia. In Hawassa, AGRA’s Board of Directors will hold formal sessions, review the country programme, and conduct field visits to better align strategy with on-the-ground realities and delivery systems.
“Ethiopia illustrates how these approaches translate into impact. Agriculture remains the backbone of the economy, contributing over 30 percent of GDP, employing the majority of the population, and driving export earnings,” said Hailemariam Dessalegn.
He highlighted progress including extension services reaching more than 645,000 farmers, digital e-vouchers supporting over 900,000 farmers with inputs, commercialization of more than 159,000 metric tonnes of grain through market linkages, and adoption of improved seeds by over 240,000 farmers, boosting productivity and value.
The week will conclude with the launch of AGRA’s Ethiopia office at the International Livestock Research Institute campus, signaling a sustained commitment to partnership and long-term presence in the country.
Looking ahead, AGRA officials said the organization will continue working with governments, private sector actors, development partners, research institutions, and farming communities to build food systems that are more productive, resilient, investable, and inclusive.
