How can technology adoption fast track green revolution in Africa

Africa has seen a surge in the accessibility of technology, which has brought about transformative changes in various sectors, particularly agriculture. However, this rise in availability has not translated to widespread adoption, according to experts. Njoki Thuo, the Head of Engagement at Wefarm, recently addressed ways to enhance adoption and shed light on what Africa needs to do to propel the green revolution forward. Thuo emphasized the critical role of the public sector in spearheading Africa's green revolution. One key pathway to achieving this revolution is through effective regulation. Given that the public sector is intricately involved in regulating all agricultural activities, it stands as the primary facilitator of this revolution. Thuo highlighted a concerning policy in Kenya where a recent imposition of a 16% value-added tax (VAT) on agricultural inputs, specifically pest control, has hindered progress. She noted that historical green revolutions, like those in Asia, succeeded by ensuring the availability and affordability of necessary agricultural materials. Thuo lamented the new tax burden on farmers, pointing out the ripple effects across sectors including transportation costs and fuel prices impacting irrigation practices. Discussing the challenges of technology adoption, Thuo referenced Kenya's innovative success with M-Pesa in the fintech space but highlighted the struggle for widespread adoption, not just in agriculture but also in other tech spheres. She proposed a holistic approach to integration, suggesting that technology should permeate all facets of life—from education to transportation. Thuo argued that breaking down silos and creating a hybrid technological lifestyle would ease adoption hurdles. Additionally, she emphasized the importance of affordable technology production to enable creators to focus on engaging with adopters. Thuo underscored the significance of achieving critical mass early on in the adoption curve to drive self-perpetuating technology uptake. Furthermore, Thuo touched on the challenge of reaching farmers with innovative solutions like Wefarm, a tech platform providing agricultural information. She highlighted the lack of accessible communication channels and the associated high costs, citing the example of expensive radio show bookings. Funding constraints and marketing challenges have compounded the issue, hindering widespread adoption of beneficial technologies. In conclusion, Njoki Thuo's insights shed light on the intricate factors influencing technology adoption and the green revolution in Africa. While the continent has made strides in technological accessibility, concerted efforts are needed to ensure widespread adoption and pave the way for a sustainable green revolution.