This programme aims to enhance agricultural productivity. ACTESA developed this programme in close collaboration African Fertilizer Agri-business Partnership (AFAP). The overall goal of COMFREP is to accelerate the regional harmonization of fertilizer regulatory frameworks, strengthen the agricultural inputs distribution networks in the region so as to increase house-hold food, nutrition security and support the establishment of resilient food systems in the COMESA region. This is aimed at reducing non-tariff barriers to trade and enhance the commercial supply and distribution of quality fertilizers throughout the region. In addition, ACTESA has developed the COMESA Bioprotectants Harmonisation Programme (COMBIHAP) in close collaboration with United States Department of Agriculture and with International Institute for Tropical Agriculture (IITA). The overall goal of COMBIHAP is to develop and implement a harmonized regulatory framework for bioprotectants (biopesticides and biocontrol agents) in COMESA Member States in order to accelerate their registration, technology transfer, commercialization, and use for the benefit of small-holder and commercial farmers, food/feed processors and consumers. ACTESA is working with its development alliance partners to support COMFREP and COMBIHAP implementation 2024/25 period.
Through its staple food programmes, ACTESA in 2024 will seek to achieve a growth rate of 10% per year in inter-regional agricultural trade for the next nine (9) years through concerted efforts targeting agricultural productivity and market access for the major staples in the region, namely maize, beans, soya beans, wheat, bananas, cassava, rice, livestock, fisheries, dairy and horticultural products. Productivity increases in the COMESA Member States has been driven by the implementation of previous and existing programs that will assist the region to double fertilizer and improve seed utilization while the increasing area under small-scale driven drip irrigation from current levels of 5-9 per cent to above 30 per cent by 2031.