Agriculture is set to take centre stage at the Africa Forward Summit 2026 in Nairobi, with experts urging African nations to use the sector as a pathway to economic independence and global influence.

In an opinion piece, Calistus K. Efukho, Acting Director General of the Agriculture and Food Authority, argues that Africa must shift from being a supplier of raw materials to a key player in global value chains.

He says the summit presents an opportunity to redefine Africa’s economic relationships, particularly with Europe.

Why it matters

For decades, Africa’s trade with Europe has followed a familiar pattern: exporting raw commodities while importing finished goods and technology.

Mr Efukho warns this model has “increased dependency and reduced strategic autonomy”.

He argues agriculture offers a way out, combining food security, industrialisation, trade reform, and climate commitments into one strategy.

“The conversation is not about who owns the soil itself. It is about who owns the processing factories, who sets standards, and eventually who controls the logistics corridors,” he writes.

A shift in global partnerships

The summit reflects a broader shift in Africa-Europe relations, moving from aid-based engagement to investment partnerships.

France has signalled its intention to transition “from aid to co-investment”, a move Mr Efukho says should be approached with “cautious confidence”.

He insists Africa must define the terms of such partnerships, ensuring local ownership, technology transfer, and transparent financing.

Initiatives like the Africa-France Impact Coalition and the Kampala Declaration on Food Systems (2025) are seen as early steps, but their success will depend on implementation.

Agriculture as a diplomatic tool

Mr Efukho frames agriculture not just as an economic sector, but as a diplomatic instrument.

He suggests it gives Africa leverage in global negotiations, linking trade, development, and climate policy.

Regional frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) could help build integrated value chains across the continent.

Lessons from Kenya

Kenya’s agricultural sectors, including dairy, tea, coffee, and horticulture are highlighted as examples of how local value addition can drive growth.

According to Mr Efukho, processing goods closer to producers increases incomes and strengthens political influence.

This model, he suggests, could be replicated across Africa.

What’s expected from the summit

The Africa Forward Summit, scheduled for 11–12 May 2026, is expected to produce concrete outcomes rather than broad declarations.

Mr Efukho says the Nairobi Declaration should include:

Investment targets

Technology transfer benchmarks

Funding timelines

Monitoring frameworks

“In diplomacy, clarity is key,” he notes.

Industry and public perspective

Analysts say strengthening agricultural value chains could create jobs, reduce import dependence, and stabilise African economies.

However, challenges remain, including infrastructure gaps, financing constraints, and policy coordination across countries.

There is also growing public interest in ensuring that foreign partnerships deliver tangible benefits to local communities.

The bigger picture

Mr Efukho concludes that Africa must reposition itself as an equal partner in global development.

“The true subject of negotiation is fairness, who participates, who profits, and who makes decisions.”

He adds that the goal is not confrontation, but “reciprocity”.

About the Africa Forward Summit

The Africa Forward Summit is a joint Africa–France initiative, co-hosted by Kenya and France with African Union endorsement.

It aims to redefine cooperation through innovation, shared investment, and African-led development.

Small businesses reported sell-outs and rising customer demand at the Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc Food and Drink Festival 2026, as the event delivered measurable outcomes in sales, brand visibility, and customer engagement for participating vendors.

Held at GTCentre, the three-day festival attracted large crowds, creating a high-volume marketplace where entrepreneurs could directly connect with consumers.

From First-Time Exposure to Real Business Gains

For first-time vendors, the festival provided both exposure and tangible results.

Thelma Briggs, founder of Kisses and Crunch, described the experience as transformative.

“The experience has been really good. It’s been a good turnout, and we’re getting to meet new people and show our brand,” she said.

Participating for the first time, she added:

“It’s a completely different experience, but it’s been amazing. I would definitely love to do this again.”

High Revenue, Strong Customer Engagement

Returning vendors also reported strong financial outcomes and customer interaction.

Bimbola said the festival offers significant economic value.

“It’s been simply amazing. It’s an opportunity to make really good revenue in a very short time,” she said.

She highlighted the importance of direct engagement with customers:

“We’ve had customers over the years, and here we get to meet them one-on-one. It’s also a great place to network.”

She rated the experience highly:

“10 over 10. It’s great for entrepreneurs, especially in this economy. It’s a big boost.”

She also praised the organisers’ support system.

“The planning is on point. They provide everything from POS machines to packaging materials. The support is excellent.”

From Uncertainty to Sell-Out Success

For some vendors, early concerns quickly turned into success stories.

Al-Aruudy said she initially worried about sales.

“At first, I was scared about whether I would sell.”

But customer demand exceeded expectations.

“We sold a lot on the first day, and by the second day, we had sold out. Customers kept coming back.”

Sales Growth Builds Momentum

Other vendors reported steady improvement across the three days.

Victor said sales increased daily.

“From the first day till today, it has been awesome. Sales improved from day one to day two, and we expect even more.”

He added that the platform brings together top vendors.

“The best vendors across Lagos are here. People who are not here are missing a lot.”

Visibility Turns Into Future Opportunities

Beyond immediate sales, vendors reported long-term business benefits.

A representative of Jypsie Ltd, Miracle, said customer interest translated into future opportunities.

“People are tasting the products, asking questions, and requesting our contact details.”

High Demand Meets Operational Challenges

At the Street Food Arena, vendors recorded strong turnout but noted infrastructure gaps.

Priscilla Innocent said:

“There are more customers inside than outside.”

However, she raised concerns about kitchen facilities.

“There are challenges with the hotness of the weather which affects the kitchens and patronage.”

Customer Retention Drives Value

For Cosmo Farmers Limited, success came from both new and returning customers.

Adedoyin Amosu said:

“We served both returning and new customers, and the outcome has been great.”

Consumers Power the Marketplace

Vendors’ success was driven by strong consumer participation.

First-time attendee Dapo said:

“I tried different foods, and they all met my expectations.”

She also noted that prices were affordable, reinforcing the event’s accessibility.

Why It Matters

The festival highlights key shifts in Nigeria’s business environment:

Direct consumer access is accelerating SME growth

Experience-driven demand is shaping buying behaviour

Free platforms are lowering entry barriers for entrepreneurs

For many businesses, the festival serves as both a sales channel and a growth accelerator.

GTCO’s Long-Term Vision

The Group Chief Executive Officer of GTCO, Segun Agbaje, said the impact extends beyond the event.

“It is always inspiring to see how these businesses evolve, expand, and carry forward the energy of the festival into their everyday journeys.”

What’s Next

As the festival concludes, the focus shifts to how businesses will convert this momentum into sustained growth and long-term customer relationships.

The Nigeria–China Strategic Partnership (NCSP) has called for stronger investment in workers’ welfare, skills and inclusion as Nigeria joins the rest of the world to mark International Workers’ Day 2026.

The organisation said sustainable economic growth can only be achieved by prioritising people, warning that symbolic celebrations must translate into real opportunities for workers.

“This year’s commemoration goes beyond celebrating labour; it serves as a reminder that sustainable growth and long-term development can only be achieved by investing in people.”

It added that access to opportunities, skills development and fair systems are essential to unlocking human potential and ensuring shared prosperity.

Why it matters

Nigeria faces persistent challenges including unemployment, underemployment and skills gaps in key sectors.

Analysts say partnerships that combine foreign investment with local workforce development could help bridge these gaps and accelerate industrial growth.

NCSP’s position highlights a growing shift—from labour recognition to labour empowerment as economies adapt to global changes in work and technology.

‘People drive every milestone’ — NCSP

The Director-General of NCSP, Joseph Tegbe, said workers remain central to Nigeria–China relations and economic transformation.

He stressed that behind every major bilateral achievement are individuals whose expertise and collaboration drive results.

“Every milestone in Nigeria–China relations is driven by individuals whose dedication and collaboration turn vision into measurable impact.”

Mr Tegbe also called for practical outcomes from discussions around labour rights.

“Conversations around workers’ dignity must result in tangible outcomes, including access to innovation, capacity building, and systems that enable meaningful contribution.”

Investment and industry impact

NCSP said it has secured investment commitments across several sectors critical to Nigeria’s economy.

These include:

Agriculture

Automotive manufacturing

Mining

Steel production

Energy

The organisation said these investments are designed to connect Nigerian talent with Chinese expertise, boosting industrialisation and job creation.

Industry observers note that such partnerships could improve technology transfer and productivity if properly implemented.

Industry and public perspectives

Economists say Nigeria’s workforce remains one of its greatest assets, but structural challenges continue to limit productivity.

Labour advocates also argue that beyond investment, there must be stronger enforcement of workers’ rights and fair wages.

For many workers, the key question remains whether high-level partnerships will translate into better pay, job security and working conditions.

What’s nex

NCSP says it will continue to promote partnerships aimed at improving livelihoods and supporting inclusive growth.

It added that as the global workplace evolves, collaboration between countries must focus on people-centred development.

“We remain committed to promoting partnerships that improve livelihoods, empower communities, and support inclusive growth for a more prosperous future.”