The United Kingdom (UK) has announced plans to spend £5 million, in partnership with the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), to boost agricultural trade and improve food systems in Nigeria and other African countries.
Lord Collins of Highbury, the UK Minister for Africa at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), made this announcement on Monday during the Africa Food Systems Forum 2025 (#AFSForum2025) in Dakar, Senegal.
He said the partnership will support the Kampala Declaration and help grow Africa’s agribusiness sector, which employs more than half of the continent’s workforce and makes up nearly 20% of Africa’s total economy.
“It gives me great pleasure to announce this new £5 million UK partnership with AGRA, and also with the African Union. The money will help implement the Kampala Declaration and support efforts to grow agricultural trade and improve food transport routes across Africa,” he said.
He noted that even though agriculture is very important to Africa’s economy and jobs, it still doesn’t get enough investment. He added that Africa has a huge opportunity in the \$7 trillion global food market.
He also praised Africa’s strong response to the climate crisis and the steps being taken to improve its food systems.
“We are meeting at a very challenging time,” he said. “Climate change, economic problems, and falling aid levels are affecting lives across Africa. But what stands out is Africa’s strong leadership, homegrown ideas, and renewed focus on transforming agriculture.”
He said the Kampala Declaration and the 10-year plan show that Africa is ready to lead its own development. He added that Africa is clearly taking control of its future.
“The UK is proud to support these efforts,” he said. “We want to build long-term partnerships based on respect and shared goals. Everywhere we’ve visited, we’ve heard the same thing.”
“Countries want to grow their economies, make better use of their natural resources, and become stronger in the face of global challenges. They also want their people to benefit more, especially through better jobs in areas like manufacturing and agriculture.”
“The UK supports these goals,” he said. “We’ve already started work and will share more progress later this year.”
He also said the UK wants to help Africa meet the world’s growing demand for food. For example, British investment has put about £32 million into cashew processing in Côte d’Ivoire.
The UK is also working with ECOWAS and COMESA to connect African governments and businesses in areas like rice and horticulture. This helps reduce food imports and creates new opportunities within Africa.
