African governments and development partners are intensifying efforts to translate policy commitments on climate-smart agriculture into concrete action aimed at strengthening food security and resilience across the continent.

The renewed push was highlighted by Estherine Lisinge‑Fotabong, Director of Agriculture, Food Security and Environmental Sustainability at AUDA‑NEPAD, who emphasised the need for African countries to accelerate the implementation of climate-smart farming initiatives.

Focus on Climate-Smart Agriculture

Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) is an approach designed to increase agricultural productivity, improve resilience to climate change and reduce greenhouse-gas emissions.

Across Africa, climate change has intensified droughts, unpredictable rainfall and extreme weather events, posing major risks to food production and rural livelihoods.

To address these challenges, African institutions and partners are working to promote farming systems that combine improved crop varieties, better soil management and sustainable land practices.

Regional Partnerships Driving Implementation

Organizations including Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the World Bank and regional agricultural research networks are supporting programmes designed to scale up climate-smart farming technologies and practices.

These initiatives aim to help farmers adapt to changing climate conditions while maintaining agricultural productivity and protecting ecosystems.

The programmes are also aligned with broader continental strategies under the African Union to strengthen sustainable agriculture and food systems.

The Kampala Declaration and Agricultural Transformation

A key framework guiding these efforts is the Kampala Declaration and Action Plan, which calls for stronger investments in agricultural transformation and climate-resilient food systems across Africa.

The declaration encourages governments to scale up policies and programmes that support smallholder farmers, who produce the majority of food across the continent but remain highly vulnerable to climate shocks.

Addressing Food Security and Climate Risks

Climate-smart agriculture is increasingly viewed as a critical tool for tackling both food insecurity and climate adaptation in Africa.

Experts say improving access to climate-resilient seeds, irrigation systems, digital weather information and sustainable farming practices will be essential to safeguarding agricultural productivity.

By turning policy commitments into practical programmes, African leaders aim to strengthen the resilience of farmers and ensure the continent’s food systems can withstand growing climate pressures.