Abstract:
The paper analyses the structure and level of international cooperation among African states in the area of agriculture
and rural development. It focuses on the African Union (AU) and its eight Regional Economic Communities.
The international cooperation schemes between the World Bank, EU, FAO and African countries in agricultural policy are
reviewed. The paper concludes that, despite numerous cross-border initiatives, governance of agricultural policies in the
pan-African context remains fragmented. Policy-making and cooperation schemes need to be stepped up to address continent-wide
challenges in the sector. There is an urgent need for the AU and the EU to intensify their cooperation in agricultural
policies and development. The AU in collaboration with its regional bodies should establish a common agricultural
policy for the continent. Such initiatives need to be Africa-driven and adapted to African needs. The EU should only provide
technical know-how and institutional support if welcomed by African partners. Collective action towards rural areas via
greater coordination of African agricultural policies and actions would help to develop the missing institutional framework
needed for agricultural development in the continent. Fostering economic growth through agricultural development and
reforms may also lead to a reduction of migration as witnessed by the EU in the sixties.
