Experts urge more support for renewable energy in Africa's food systems

Renewable energy is increasingly seen as a catalyst for higher productivity and greater competitiveness among African food businesses, yet a range of barriers limits its uptake. Experts who spoke to *Climate Home News* argue that while solar and wind power could reduce operating costs and improve supply‑chain reliability, the high initial investment required, fragmented local markets, and a scarcity of tailored financing options remain significant hurdles.

The challenges are compounded by a lack of coordinated policy frameworks and limited access to low‑interest loans or subsidies for small‑to‑medium enterprises. Without targeted support from governments, development banks, and private investors, many food producers will struggle to transition to clean energy, leaving them vulnerable to volatile fuel prices and supply disruptions. The experts call for a concerted effort to create financing mechanisms, streamline market entry, and build technical capacity to unlock the full potential of renewables across Africa’s food sector.