Overview
Agricultural development is a proven engine of growth that reduces global hunger and poverty. Historical evidence from 18th century England, 19th century Japan, and modern China shows that agricultural growth was a key factor in industrial growth and economic development.
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| USAID supported greenhouses allow farmers in Afghanistan like Mola Shah Goel to grow fruits and vegetables for sale year round. |
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The recent global recession and food price crisis added to the suffering of people living in poverty and with chronic hunger. Around 75% of people in developing countries live in rural areas, with the vast majority dependent on agriculture for their livelihoods. In many famine prevalent countries, farming is done mostly by women. However, women only own 2% of land worldwide and often have limited access to agriculture inputs, loans, and opportunities to learn about improved techniques.
The United Nations Millennium Development Goals brought global attention to the problem of food insecurity and the important role of agriculture innovation and investment in developing countries. The first goal calls for the eradication of extreme poverty and hunger and requires significant investment in agriculture by donors, developing countries, and the private sector. USAID assists developing countries harness agriculture for economic growth to increase the supply and lower the cost of food by making agriculture more efficient, productive, and sustainable.
At the April 2009 G20 Summit, President Obama called upon Congress to double U.S. support for agricultural development in developing countries to more than $1 billion. Recognizing that solving food insecurity requires engaging the world’s poorest populations toward rapid, sustained economic growth, the President tasked USAID to take a leading role in the endeavor.
 USAID’s approach
USAID has a long history of technical leadership in international agricultural development by drawing upon the expertise of U.S. universities, industry, non-governmental and private voluntary organizations, multilateral development partners, and its own technical staff. USAID supports country-driven strategies and invests in strengthening both public and private institutions that underpin growth of the agricultural sector. The Agency works throughout the sector, from developing improved seeds and management practices to strengthening the industries along the agricultural value chain. USAID is scaling-up a comprehensive approach to agriculture by:
Additional resources
Center for Global Development
Provides several case studies and innovative approaches to agricultural development and food security
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
Includes information on current UN food security projects, past food summits, and country briefs
International Food Policy Research Institute
Works to provide policy solutions to hunger and malnutrition by researching the effects of climate change, food prices, gender inequality, and other factors on agricultural development and food security.
International Fund for Agricultural Development
Established by the United Nations to finance agricultural development projects
World Food Program of the United Nations
Provides food assistance during emergency situations
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