FAO Expands Agricultural Data Support Across 47 African Countries to Improve Food Security Planning

August 7, 2026
By Mintesinot Nigussie

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has expanded support for agricultural data systems across Africa, helping governments strengthen food security planning, agricultural development strategies and investment decisions. Through its Regional Office for Africa, FAO provided technical assistance to 47 countries during the 2024–2025 biennium to improve the collection, analysis and use of agricultural statistics. The support focused on national agricultural surveys, censuses, food balance assessments, Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) monitoring and statistical capacity building.

FAO said 24 countries conducted national agricultural surveys through the 50x2030 Initiative during the period, increasing access to higher-quality agricultural data. Another 16 countries received support to prepare or implement national agricultural censuses, which provide the foundation for long-term agricultural statistics. The organisation also supported 15 countries to compile Food Balance Sheets, which provide information on food availability, dietary energy, protein and fat supplies to support food security and nutrition policies. In addition, 18 countries strengthened monitoring and reporting of agriculture-related SDG indicators.

FAO said the initiatives have improved the quality of agricultural data submitted to global statistical databases and strengthened cooperation with regional organisations, including the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Secretariat. The agency said better agricultural statistics are increasingly important as African governments seek to design policies, attract investment and transform agrifood systems. Reliable data enables governments to assess production trends, identify food security risks and allocate resources more effectively.

To expand long-term capacity, FAO’s Regional Office for Africa has adopted a model that combines regional expertise, cross-programme cooperation, mentoring and on-the-job training to help countries maintain stronger statistical systems. The organisation said it aims to further develop its role as a regional centre of excellence for agricultural statistics and analysis, with data positioned as a central tool for shaping agricultural policies and supporting sustainable agrifood development across the continent.

Source: FSX Business News