Leading Africa’s agricultural growth through accountable standards
Africa is now home to more than 1.5 billion people, and by 2050, one in every four people in the world is projected to be African, according to the United Nations (UN). This demographic transformation presents both a pressing challenge and a remarkable opportunity for the continent’s agrifood systems. As reported by the African Development […] The post Leading Africa’s agricultural growth through…
Africa is on the brink of a significant demographic and economic shift, with its population projected to reach 1.5 billion by 2050. As the continent holds nearly two-thirds of the world's remaining uncultivated arable land, it has the potential to significantly reduce its reliance on food imports, currently valued at around US$70 billion.
Agriculture currently contributes 17% to Africa's GDP and provides employment for nearly half of its workforce. However, to fully capitalize on this opportunity, the agricultural sector must be transformed in a way that is environmentally sustainable and socially responsible. The 2024 Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) Principles and Criteria (P&C) provides a framework for the African palm oil sector to achieve this balance.
The new RSPO P&C emphasizes the importance of consultative processes for land acquisition, ensuring that local communities and customary landowners are involved in any expansion efforts. Additionally, it introduces mandatory Human Rights Due Diligence, aligning with international standards such as the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and key International Labour Organization conventions.
These measures aim to protect workers and address potential human rights risks within the palm oil supply chain. Furthermore, the RSPO P&C reinforces no-deforestation policies, restricting land clearance in high conservation value areas, high carbon stock forests, and peatlands. The standard also recognizes the need for sustainable economic growth in forest-rich countries, providing a procedure for the development of certified sustainable palm oil in these regions.
By adhering to these standards, the African palm oil sector can contribute to food security, reduce dependence on imports, generate employment, and promote environmental protection and social responsibility.
Brief written by urgent.news from KBC's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
