500 million smallholder farmers produce most of the world’s food, yet many remain in poverty, relying on traditional methods and lacking access to markets, finance, and technology. Supporting them to become commercially successful is critical to creating jobs, reducing poverty, and improving global food security.
Over the next decade, 1.2 billion young people will enter the workforce in developing countries. At the same time, the world will need 30% more food by 2050. Meeting this demand requires transforming agriculture into a driver of opportunity.
The World Bank Group has pledged to double its yearly investment in agribusiness to $9 billion. Because agribusiness is one of the most powerful tools to feed 10 billion people, and end poverty and unemployment.
Meeting Tomorrow’s Food Demand
What it takes to feed 10 billion by 2050 – and who makes it possible.
Partnerships are helping smallholders in Cambodia improve their farming practices and connecting them with buyers that source high-value, sustainable rice.
Farmers in Haiti are benefitting from receiving high-quality seeds, training in modern farming techniques, and better links to formal markets.
To have better talent in agriculture, India is improving its agricultural universities by modernizing curricula, digital and experiential learning, and aligning with global standards.
Reforms in the country’s cotton sector are improving working conditions, boosting incomes for farmers and laborers, and also expanding jobs in textiles and manufacturing.
In Zambia’s rain-fed farming zones, droughts often devastate crops and income. The country is now helping farmers to diversify with poultry and vegetables – a shift that will protect their income and food supply.
