Journal of Agricultural Economics, Extension and Rural Development

Towards a Holistic Agricultural Transformation Index for Africa: A Universal Framework with Insights from Zambia

Abstract

The Holistic and Inclusive Agricultural Transformation Index (HIATI) for Africa aims to assess agricultural transformation in Africa, focusing on productivity, policy, and institutional effectiveness. The index categorizes countries into early, emerging, transitioning, and advanced stages based on overall scores. The study shows significant changes in African countries' agricultural development stages from 2000 to 2020. 21 countries were at an early stage of transformation, while 46 were emerging. Countries transitioning from subsistence-based systems to market-driven economies saw the highest HIATI scores. Namibia, Liberia, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, and Zimbabwe stagnated in this category. The study reveals that agricultural transformation is primarily driven by "Agricultural Productivity and Efficiency" and "Rural Infrastructure and Financial Services." However, some emerging countries have stagnated and reduced HIATI scores due to low scores in climate resilience and structural economic shifts. Zambia's HIATI score increased from 28 in 2000 to 34 in 2020, driven by structural economic shifts, policy and institutional effectiveness, and market integration.

Keywords: Agricultural Transformation Index, Africa, Zambia