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Periodical article | Leiden University catalogue | WorldCat |
Title: | Globalisation and Technology: Problems and Prospects for the Agricultural Sector in Africa |
Author: | Agbu, Osita |
Year: | 2005 |
Periodical: | Africa Development: A Quarterly Journal of CODESRIA (ISSN 0850-3907) |
Volume: | 30 |
Issue: | 4 |
Pages: | 151-170 |
Language: | English |
Notes: | biblio. refs. |
Geographic term: | Africa |
Subjects: | agriculture food shortage globalization agricultural technology Development and Technology Economics and Trade international relations Agriculture, Agronomy, Forestry technology food supply Agricultural implements agricultural innovations |
External link: | https://www.jstor.org/stable/24483839 |
Abstract: | This paper examines the linkage between globalization as a phenomenon and technology as the catalyst for the state of the agricultural sector in Africa. It argues that although agriculture is the dominant economic sector in Africa, the continent is currently facing a food crisis of monumental dimensions. Figures pertaining to food production growth rates and the percentage share of agriculture in the total labour force are presented to highlight the poor state of the sector. Apart from the impact of globalization on the sector, the paper determines the link between technological capacity and the food crisis in Africa on the one hand, and the prospects for increased technological inputs in African agriculture on the other. Fundamentally, the paper argues that Africa cannot begin to benefit from global developments in trade and technology and, therefore, improve the welfare of its peoples, until food security is reasonably attained. It recommends the use of science-based technology generation to ensure sustainable agricultural development. African governments are called upon to balance the vicissitudes of the multilateral framework on agriculture with their immediate national objectives. Finally, the author concludes that a brighter future awaits those countries that can competently manage the impact of globalization on the agricultural sector, while infusing appropriate technologies to ensure food security. Bibliogr., sum. in English and French. [Journal abstract] |