Agricultural Transformation Towards Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals

Abstract

The threats to achieving sustainable growth and development of agriculture vis a vis the sustainable development goals (SDGs) call for intensifying agricultural innovations. This paper highlights some advances in the agricultural transformation towards achieving the SDGs. Agriculture is being transformed via increasing productivity, enhancing natural resources, fostering inclusive growth, improving resilience to climate change, and adopting appropriate governance. Moreover, agricultural productivity is being enhanced through high value addition, job creation, access to resources, finance, and service must be enhanced. In championing these aspirations, ensuing Agriculture 5.0 in conjunction with the Industrial Revolution 4.0 will be at the forefront. The agricultural sector, needs to be connected to markets, agricultural income needs to be diversified, and the knowledge base of agricultural stakeholders needs to be strengthened through skilling. Resource optimization is essential for protecting natural resources. Empowering marginalized groups, social protection, sustainable land tenures could spur the socio-economic growth of farmers. Climate change and ecosystem challenges need to be handled to build resilience. These narratives must be supported by strengthened by policies.