The Flexible Multi-Partner Mechanism (FMM) recently funded a new Subprogramme on Global Network of Digital Agriculture Innovation Hubs. The Subprogramme aims to accelerate the development of digital innovation in the agri-food sector. This network of in-country innovation hubs, established by FAO and country institutions, supports farmers and value chain actors. The Subprogramme focuses especially on youth and women and seeks to increase their skills and competitiveness.

The FMM Subprogramme on Global Network of Digital Agriculture Innovation Hubs (GNDAH) has started the implementation in Dominica, Grenada, Ethiopia, and Morocco. Considering national priorities on digital innovation, FAO’s country teams are scoping the state of each country’s digital development and capacity of partners, such as government institutions, academia, NGOs, and the private sector. This Subprogramme seeks to support countries in designing a national digital agriculture model that meets local needs in agriculture, forestry, and fisheries priorities and fostering public-private partnerships.

While the countries are different in size, culture, economy, and priorities, there are many synergies and lessons learnt that can be exchanged across countries and regions.

Ethiopia, with 110 million people, has around 40% of its population under the age of 15. The country has formulated a long-term strategy that includes the transformation of the agricultural sector. Since 70% of the population works in agriculture, this transformation will impact on the lives of many in the population.

Because 80% of the population in Ethiopia lives in rural areas, capacity building, partnerships, and market information dissemination are crucial elements in a digital transformation of the country. The government of Ethiopia considers accelerate digital transformation as a priority.

The Global Network Hub Subprogramme, which will run until 2023, is off to a good start and these four countries may be joined by others in the future. All the target countries mentioned their desire to link their work with existing FAO projects such as the Hand in Hand initiative, the 1 000 Digital Villages initiative, and others.

Source: FAO