How the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center is helping African farmers — and why that’s good for St. Louis

Africa is the world’s fastest-growing continent by population. By 2050, the continent is projected to hold a quarter of the world’s people, with urban populations booming and consumer markets expanding at record speed. For St. Louis business leaders, this is more than a righteous humanitarian issue — it’s a generational opportunity.

But Africa’s potential hinges on one essential factor: feeding its people sustainably. Sub-Saharan Africa’s agricultural productivity remains stubbornly low. Smallholder farmers — who make up over half the labor force — often struggle to escape poverty, and expanded food production frequently comes at the expense of natural habitats.

A new frontier for markets and partnerships

For companies in St. Louis and beyond, Africa’s transformation represents a frontier for business, trade and investment. Countries like Nigeria, Ghana, Rwanda and Kenya are already among the fastest-growing economies, with expanding consumer markets and demand for agricultural innovations.

Yet hunger, poverty and fragile food systems remain serious barriers. Improving Africa’s agricultural productivity will help farmers and their communities, while also ensuring these markets can thrive. Boosting farm productivity frees up labor to build new industries, creates jobs in cities and drives economic growth across sectors. Keep reading.