Despite the fact that 60% of the African workforce are employed in agriculture, the sector contributes as little as 25% to the continent’s GDP. What is the reason for this situation?

Recent research by the World Bank has proven that the agricultural potential of the African continent is vast. However, this potential remains unexploited due to lack of appropriate legislation.

Troublesome fragmentation

According to estimates, c. 50% of farmland which could be used by farmers remains uncultivated because of doubts as to who owns the land. The reasons are rooted in history: complicated clan relations as well as passing on smaller and smaller plots of land to an increasing number of children in the family. As a result, it is now difficult to say where the borders between particular areas are, and the farmland remains uncultivated. Seeking a solution to the problem People looking into the issue of land ownership in Africa suggest a method to eliminate the issues with deciding to whom the land belongs. It is necessary to prepare detailed satellite maps of particular regions. Another crucial step is a legal reform in countries trying to cope with the issue of land subdivisions. New legislation could help give Africa the assets which potential foreign investors find important. At present, such investors often postpone large investment plans precisely because of uncertain legal status of land.