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Agriculture provides the backbone of the economy in many African countries. Developing agriculture specifically -- and the rural sector, more broadly -- are key components of Africa's pathway out of poverty. During the last few years, Africa has witnessed positive growth rates. In 2006, the continent grew by 5.7 percent, with agricultural growth exceeding the CAADP benchmark goal of 6 percent.
However, national budget expenditure shares on aggregate have risen only slightly, from 4.6 percent in the early 1990s to about 6 percent in 2005, below the 10 percent CAADP goal. While poverty and hunger rates have been declining, they have been small reductions.
Fortunately, there are signs that African governments are focusing on agriculture to address the twin goals of growth and poverty reduction. Governments are increasing spending for agriculture, also an important sign of their shared commitment to CAADP.
Is this the beginning of a new era for African agriculture? Or will these promises and trends evaporate, as they have in the past? How can governments sustain and accelerate this agricultural growth and ensure that the poor and hungry benefit?
Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP)
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