Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme in Promoting Agricultural Development and Enhancing Food Security in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract Agriculture is a key sector in Sub-Saharan Africa, employing over 60% of the population and serving as a major source of livelihoods, food supply, and economic development. Despite its importance, the region continues to face persistent food insecurity, low agricultural productivity, poverty, climate change impacts, and weak agricultural systems. This study examined the contribution of the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) to agricultural development and food security in Sub-Saharan Africa. The study was guided by Modernisation Theory and Food Security/Entitlement Theory, where Modernisation Theory emphasises technology, institutional reform, and investment in agricultural growth, while Entitlement Theory highlights that food insecurity is driven not only by production but also by access, poverty, and inequality. A qualitative approach was adopted, using secondary data from academic journals, policy documents, and reports from the Food and Agriculture Organisation, the African Union, and the World Bank. Findings indicate that CAADP has improved agricultural productivity, policy coordination, rural infrastructure, and investment in countries such as Ethiopia, Rwanda, Ghana, and Malawi. It has also strengthened regional cooperation and elevated agriculture in national development agendas. However, its effectiveness is constrained by weak institutions, inadequate financing, corruption, climate change, poor infrastructure, and inequalities affecting women and smallholder farmers, resulting in continued food insecurity. The study concludes that while CAADP provides a strong framework for agricultural transformation, its impact remains uneven. It recommends increased investment, stronger governance, climate-smart agriculture, improved infrastructure, and inclusive policies to enhance access to resources for vulnerable groups and ensure sustainable food security. Keywords: Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP), Food Security, Sub-Saharan Africa, Agricultural Productivity, Governance, Sustainable Development, etc.