A well-integrated, efficient and resilient agri-food system is critical to the food security of every country and region. Consumers and users are demanding an increasingly broader range of products (including product forms) and services to meet their changing taste preferences, need for convenience, health status etc.
The seat of value in the Agri – food system lies principally between primary production and the consumer, the space where most agribusinesses operate. But in our region, this ‘agri-business sector’ continues to be rudimentary and limits growth of the agricultural sector generally. Business skill development, including marketing, is necessary if both primary production and the agri-business sector is to grow to the benefit of our people.
An agribusiness programme which develops skills in technical agricultural as well as ferments a business approach to providing value in the agri-business sector can enhance capacity needed and provide access to the broad opportunities for employment and career development for a larger segment of those seeking training.