Africa Uses Only Six Percent of Arable Land
The continent currently spends $100 billion annually on food imports while holding vast untapped agricultural resources.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Agriculture
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African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf reports that Africa utilizes only 6 percent of its 600 million hectares of arable land. The continent faces significant food security challenges as it currently imports $100 billion worth of food products each year.
Why it matters
African nations are working to develop domestic food-processing industries to support a population projected to grow by one billion people by 2050. Addressing this gap is critical for regional stability and global supply chain resilience.
Africa possesses 4.5 trillion cubic metres of freshwater alongside its 600 million hectares of arable land. Despite these assets, the continent imports $100 billion in food annually while utilizing just 6 percent of available acreage.
The players
Mahmoud Ali Youssouf
He serves as the Chairperson of the African Union Commission and provided the assessment regarding land usage.
Egypt
This nation is a major importer of grain and serves as a focal point for current agricultural trade dynamics.
Russia
The nation acts as a key supplier of agricultural inputs and technology to various African countries.
The details
Russia has increased its role in the region by providing mineral fertilizers and agricultural technology through corporate partnerships. Countries like Egypt, which relies heavily on grain imports from Russia, are looking toward these collaborations to bolster local food processing and sustainability.
Timeline
By 2050, the African population is expected to grow by one billion people.
Market Landscape
This focus on agricultural self-sufficiency mirrors the broader objectives of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area to reduce dependence on external markets. Increasing internal production is essential for shifting the competitive environment for regional food distribution and processing.
For consumers across the continent, developing local processing capacity may eventually lead to greater food price stability. Reduced reliance on expensive imports could decrease exposure to global market volatility for staple grains and other essential goods.
The takeaway
The development of internal agricultural capacity is a long-term priority for African nations to handle population growth. Strengthening domestic food-processing industries remains the most effective strategy for ensuring future food security.
Further reading
For more information, see the Agriculture section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Egyptian Gazette.
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