Agricultural & Rural Development

Farming is the fabric of rural society and, in many countries in Africa, it is the main economic activity. Any sudden and profound changes which impacted on the farm sector could have severe consequences in terms of social and political stability in economically developing countries.

Agriculture also plays an important part in rural development, especially due to land use, in countries where the sector is of less economic significance.

The main potential contributions of farming to rural development are in terms of supporting employment, ancillary businesses, and environmental services. In peripheral regions, farming may be necessary to support the economic and social infrastructure.

Rural development policies should exploit the contribution of farming, both in terms of improving on-farm activities and supporting ancillary services, to secure sustainable development for rural areas.