CONGO EMBRACES E-COMMERCE TO DIGITIZE FARMS AND DELIVER FOOD SECURITY

Congo and ECA launch digital agriculture initiative to strengthen food systems and tackle hunger.

Congo Digital agriculture Digital inclusion E-commerce Tech-driven food systems Farmers empowerment.
The Republic of Congo turns to digital agriculture with support from ECA
The Republic of Congo turns to digital agriculture with support from ECA



In a strategic move to combat deepening food insecurity, the Republic of Congo is turning to digital inclusion as a catalyst for agricultural reform and resilience. With support from the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), the country is pushing to empower farmers, traders, and communities through e-commerce and tech-driven food systems.

A recent joint mission by ECA and the Congolese government, held from June 30 to July 4 in Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire, brought together nearly 200 stakeholders from across ministries, telecom companies, banks, and international organizations. The mission aimed to map out how digital tools can strengthen agricultural value chains and deliver food more efficiently to underserved populations.

This initiative is part of the ECA’s wider “Smart Digital Trade for the AfCFTA” programme, which links food security with the digital transformation of Africa’s economies.

“If current trends continue, Africa will not meet the ‘Zero Hunger’ goal by 2030,” said Simone Assah Kuete, Economic Affairs Officer at ECA. She emphasized the need for investment in cold storage logistics and mobile-based payment systems to ensure perishable food reaches those who need it most.

Despite having significant agricultural potential, the Republic of Congo cultivates only 4% of its arable land. Weak infrastructure and limited access to markets have left an estimated 455,000 people in a food and nutritional crisis.

Participants highlighted several systemic challenges, including inadequate digital infrastructure, lack of regulation for online food trade, and insufficient digital literacy in rural areas. Yet, the presence of companies like MTN, Airtel, commercial banks, and global partners like FAO and WFP points to growing private-sector interest in driving inclusive solutions.

“Empowering our farmers and traders through digital platforms can unlock a new era of food security,” said Lenda Sitou Milandou, Special Adviser at the Ministry of Trade. “To move forward, we need strong frameworks to support the development of e-commerce in the agri-food sector.”

As Congo eyes a future shaped by innovation, digital inclusion may prove to be its strongest tool not only to feed its people but to build a more equitable agricultural economy.

Comments

You must be logged in to comment.