The SADC Rural Innovation and Transformation Expo (RITE), held on 27-28 September 2023 in Kinshasa, DRC, marked a significant milestone in the collective pursuit of rural development across Southern Africa. This gathering of 360 delegates exemplified a commitment to innovation, sustainable practices, and youth empowerment. The Expo, aligned with the visions of SADC, the African Union, and the United Nations, provided a platform for key stakeholders to share insights, showcase success stories, and set forth initiatives to drive positive change.

Key Actions and Initiatives

Launch of Senior Government Officials on Rural Transformation

One of the pivotal moments of the Expo was the recognition by senior government officials from SADC member states of the critical importance of rural transformation. This acknowledgment was coupled with a resounding commitment to support both national and regional efforts. Central to this commitment is the role of Ministries in spearheading policy development, alignment, and rigorous monitoring and evaluation efforts.

Incubation and Support for Young Innovators

A beacon of hope for the future emerged as 22 young visionaries with innovative solutions for hunger and rural development were selected from SADC countries. This forward-looking initiative aims to equip these young entrepreneurs with the necessary resources, mentorship, and guidance to translate their ideas into viable, sustainable businesses. The support encompasses access to finance, essential inputs, market facilitation, storage facilities, agro-processing capabilities, and crucial technology training.

Supportive Frameworks and Declarations

These initiatives find their roots in various esteemed frameworks and declarations, including SADC’s Vision 2050 and Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan 2020-2030. Additionally, the AU Agenda 2063 and the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly focusing on SDGs 1, 2, 4, and 8, offer guiding principles. The Kinshasa Declaration on Rural Transformation, endorsed by the AU, provides a robust foundation for replication and expansion across the African continent.

Key Recommendations

            1.         Innovative Financing Models

To fortify emerging, smallholder farmers, and youth-led agribusinesses, there is a call to create trust funds or establish a dedicated Southern African bank. This institution would be focused on facilitating access to finance, vital inputs, market linkages, storage, and agro-processing facilities, particularly targeting women and youth entrepreneurs.

            2.         Institutionalize Rural Innovation and Transformation Expo

A key suggestion is to elevate the Rural Innovation and Transformation Expo to an annual event, rotating its hosting among SADC member states. This strategic move aims to promote innovation, knowledge exchange, and collaboration, especially within the dynamic realm of rural development.

            3.         Research, Data Collection, and Documentation

To chart progress and gather invaluable best practices, there is an urgent need to support robust research and data collection efforts. This serves the dual purpose of documenting success stories and disseminating this knowledge across SADC countries.

            4.         Upscaling Smart Rapid Rural Transformation and Climate-Smart Agriculture

Replicating successful initiatives like smart villages and climate-smart agriculture technologies across SADC countries is crucial. By doing so, sustainable agricultural practices can be promoted, thereby enhancing rural resilience, strengthening market linkages, and ensuring equitable access to natural resources.

            5.         Digital Literacy and Technology Training

Empowering young, small-scale farmers with digital literacy and technology training is essential. This initiative enables them to actively engage in e-commerce and digital entrepreneurship. It is equally important to enhance access to technology and digital platforms that can significantly contribute to their economic empowerment.

Next Steps

With the collective efforts of WFP, FAO, AUDA-NEPAD, SADC, and their partners, the call to action attached to this Expo is set to be implemented. The Expo served as a catalyst for dialogue, collaboration, and the launch of initiatives aimed at promoting rural transformation and supporting young innovators in SADC member states. Moving forward, the implementation of these recommended actions will be instrumental in achieving inclusive growth, sustainable development, job creation, and economic empowerment for the youth and women in the region. The partnership between government entities, development partners, the private sector, and civil society will be pivotal in realizing these shared objectives.