Agriculture plays a vital role in Africa's economic development, supporting rural livelihoods, creating jobs, and sustaining food security. However, farmers and agricultural businesses face numerous challenges, including limited market access and investment, as well as climate-related disasters that can undo years of progress. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach that includes sound economic policies, stronger regional partnerships, and practical solutions to help communities grow and withstand uncertainty.
Ngabitsinze Jean Chrysostome, Director General of African Risk Capacity (ARC) Group, has extensive experience in applied economics, agricultural research, and public policymaking. His professional journey has been shaped by a clear understanding of how agricultural productivity, market opportunities, and economic resilience influence people's lives. He has explored ways to improve production efficiency, strengthen agricultural value chains, and expand market access for smallholder farmers, with the aim of supporting rural development and food security.
Ngabitsinze's experience in government has further shaped his approach to economic development. He has supported policies aimed at attracting investment, expanding exports, and reducing dependence on imports. He also recognises the importance of private sector participation and regional value chains in creating stronger, more resilient economies. His engagement with continental and international platforms reflects his belief that cooperation is essential to unlocking Africa's economic potential.
As Director General of ARC, Ngabitsinze is focused on expanding country participation, strengthening preparedness, and improving access to affordable disaster risk financing. His priority is to ensure that the institution's work translates into timely assistance for vulnerable communities. He also recognises that effective disaster management depends on strong institutional relationships, transparent decision-making, accountability, and constructive dialogue among ARC's governing bodies, member states, and partners.
Climate-related disasters can affect entire agricultural systems, disrupting production, reducing household incomes, and placing pressure on food supplies. Ngabitsinze believes countries must connect early warning systems with practical plans and financing that can be accessed before a crisis escalates. Reliable climate information is important, but it must lead to action, including investments in resilient farming, water management, livestock protection, and functioning food markets.
Ngabitsinze sees parametric insurance as a useful mechanism for releasing funds when agreed thresholds are met, allowing governments to respond more quickly to disasters. However, insurance works best as part of a wider strategy that includes reserves, contingency credit, and social protection. The real measure of success is whether financial support reaches affected communities in time to protect lives and livelihoods.
Smallholder farmers often face multiple barriers, including limited access to finance, unreliable agricultural inputs, inadequate infrastructure, weak extension services, and uncertain markets. Ngabitsinze believes these challenges require coordinated solutions, including better access to finance and inputs, stronger agricultural advisory services, reliable infrastructure, and policies that allow farmers to plan ahead.
Key points
- Ngabitsinze Jean Chrysostome leads African Risk Capacity (ARC) Group in disaster preparedness and financial protection.
- Agricultural resilience requires sound policies, partnerships, and practical solutions.
- Parametric insurance helps governments respond quickly to disasters.
