In this delightful talk, agricultural economist Thabi Nkosi presents a somewhat disarming take on the state of agriculture in Africa. She agrees that the challenges are many, and that they are particularly stark and urgent in South Africa — more needs to be done to increase access to land for the majority; to open access to financing opportunities; to improve rural infrastructure; and to increase the rate of innovation. Yet, Statistics South Africa reports that, against the odds, the sector creates the highest number of jobs per unit of output, compared to any other sector in the country. In fact, in the face of having to recover from the worst drought in recorded history, the sector still managed to create 38 000 jobs in South Africa in the last quarter of 2016. Despite its relatively small direct contribution to the country’s Gross Domestic Product, the sector’s economy-wide multiplier effects are substantial. Why is it then, that in-spite of these heroics, the sector can’t seem to shake its ugly duckling affliction? Surely, a sector as critical and evidently resilient as agriculture, should be attracting greater investor and public interest.
Thabi currently serves as Executive Director: Research and Investments at AFGRI Group Holdings (AGH), an investment holding company with interests in a number of agricultural and food-related companies across Africa. Prior to joining AGH, she was Sector Specialist for agribusiness at the Public Investment Corporation. Thabi is passionate about agriculture and has, throughout her career, held a number of roles in the sector, including Lead Economist at Agri SA, and National Market Manager at the South African Sugar Association. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx