AGRA Unveils Ambitious Strategic Plan for Agricultural Transformation in Burkina Faso

OUAGADOUGOU, – Under the banner of ‘Sustainably Growing Africa’s Food Systems,’ the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) formally unveiled its ambitious Strategic Plan for 2023-2027 in Burkina Faso on Tuesday, heralding a transformative blueprint for the future of agricultural development in the country.

The plan was disclosed during a ceremonial event overseen by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Resources, and Fisheries. Highlights included a panel discussion themed, “Catalytic Interventions for a Sustainable Transformation of Food Systems in Burkina Faso.”

Dr. Denis Ouedraogo, the Minister for Agriculture, Animal Resources, and Fisheries, delivered the keynote address. In his speech, he recognized AGRA’s significant contributions to Burkina Faso’s agricultural sector and expressed profound gratitude.

“With a sense of great satisfaction, we acknowledge AGRA’s interventions in Burkina Faso, which have yielded notable achievements. These include the reform of the subsidy program and exit mechanism; the re-alignment of our seed law in line with the ECOWAS Seed Regulation; and the design and implementation of the MARAH budget management software,” Dr. Ouedraogo said.

The Minister also lauded AGRA’s alignment with the government’s priorities, specifically enhancing smallholder productivity, building resilience to climate shocks, and strengthening institutional capacity. He stated, “AGRA’s impactful interventions, including the EGS production and the electronic tracker of ministry results, have made a remarkable difference, despite their modest costs. The rice flagship initiative is also a noteworthy case, as it significantly facilitated government resource mobilization.”

AGRA’s new strategic plan details a plethora of strategic initiatives planned for the next five years. The primary objectives focus on cultivating inclusive markets and trade, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, advancing seed systems, and boosting institutional capacity.

Founded in 2006 by former United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan, AGRA is committed to ensuring food security through a resilient agricultural sector in Burkina Faso. The organization has played a pivotal role in enhancing agricultural research, strengthening the input distribution system, and expanding market access in the country.

The unveiled strategic plan solidifies a pact between AGRA and the government of Burkina Faso, effectively harmonizing with the nation’s macroeconomic and sectoral context, AGRA’s strategic trajectory, and the interests of all stakeholders involved.