South Centre Report, June 2024
Unveiling the Controversies: ICTs in Agriculture and the Challenges for Africa
By Ruthbetha Kateule and Thaura Ghneim-Herrera
The integration of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in African agriculture presents both significant opportunities and challenges. While ICTs can enhance efficiency and productivity, addressing the digital divide and structural inequalities is crucial for their effective implementation. It is imperative to incorporate local knowledge and address region-specific challenges to ensure that these technologies are accessible and beneficial to all, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Moving forward, a balanced approach that focuses on sustainable development, equitable access, and environmental stewardship will be key to realizing the full potential of smart agriculture in Africa and the Global South.
This paper presents a summary of a research conducted with the support of the Montpellier Advanced Knowledge Institute on Transitions (MAK’IT) of the University of Montpellier, within the framework of the 2024 COHORT programme, and the cooperation of the South Centre.