In a concerted effort to address Africa’s persistent food security challenges, experts at the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) Science Week in Nairobi emphasized the critical role of Sino-African technological collaborations. The “Building Bridges” side event, convened on April 8, 2025, brought together scientists and industry leaders to explore avenues for technology and innovation transfer aimed at revitalizing Africa’s agriculture.
Ismahane Elouafi, Managing Director of CGIAR, highlighted the importance of integrating advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), genomics, and nanotechnology into African agriculture. She noted that such integration is essential for reducing the continent’s annual food import bill, which stands at approximately $100 billion. Elouafi stated, “Investments in soil health, water management, and breeding of high-yielding crop varieties are crucial.”
Representing the Chinese genomics company BGI Group, Chairman Wang Jian discussed the potential of leveraging cutting-edge sequencing technology and AI modeling to digitize millions of germplasm samples collected globally. This initiative aims to accelerate crop breeding and strengthen food system resilience in developing countries, particularly in Africa. Xu Xun, Director of BGI-Research, added that the company’s advanced sequencing platforms and AI models could promote the digitization of seed systems, injecting vitality into food production across the Global South.
China’s commitment to agricultural collaboration with Africa has a robust historical foundation. Over the past decade, China has established 24 agricultural technology demonstration centers across the continent, introducing more than 300 advanced agricultural technologies. These initiatives have led to an average increase in local crop yields of 30 to 60 percent, benefiting over a million African farmers.
The integration of Chinese technological expertise into African agriculture signifies a transformative shift towards sustainable food systems. By harnessing innovations in genomics and AI, these partnerships aim to enhance crop resilience, boost yields, and ultimately achieve food security across the continent.
