In a significant boost for Africa’s agricultural sector, Australia has pledged $76 million over six years to support climate-resilient farming across the continent.
Speaking at the climate symposium at Ghana Communication Technology University (GCTU), Australian High Commissioner to Ghana, Berenice Owen-Jones, announced the Australia-Africa Partnership for Climate Responsive Agriculture (AAPCRA), which will focus on smallholder farmers and food security.
Owen-Jones highlighted the devastating impact of climate change on agriculture, especially in Africa, where rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall, and prolonged droughts threaten food security.
“The Horn of Africa is currently facing its longest drought in over 40 years, with 26 million people facing acute food and livelihood crises. This situation underscores the urgency of investing in climate-smart agricultural solutions,” she stated.
On his part, Climate Counsellor of the Australian High Commission in Kenya, Daniel Featherston highlighted that this program will introduce cutting-edge technologies such as drought-resistant crops, precision farming, and water-efficient irrigation systems to help African farmers adapt to climate change.
“Farmers in Australia have faced similar climate challenges—rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall, and land degradation. Through research and innovation, we have developed solutions that are now being shared with Africa,” Featherston explained.
The AAPCRA initiative will fund agricultural research, innovative farming techniques, and climate adaptation strategies to improve resilience in Ghana and other African nations. The project aligns with Ghana’s efforts to strengthen food security and reduce the vulnerability of farmers to climate-related shocks.
Ghana’s newly appointed Minister of State for Climate Change and Sustainability, Issifu Seidu, has prioritized protecting the agricultural sector from climate risks.
Owen-Jones praised the government’s commitment, stating that Ghana could become a leader in Africa’s climate action efforts.
