From January to September 2021, we were engaged in a transformative initiative to assess the skills landscape in the agribusiness sector across Uganda, Zambia, and Sierra Leone. Commissioned by the African Development Bank, our team conducted a comprehensive survey to identify existing skill sets, highlight shortages and gaps, and project future workforce demands - ensuring the industry is well-equipped for sustainable growth and competitiveness.

The study focused on analyzing the current availability of skills in agribusiness, uncovering critical shortages and gaps in relation to market demand. We identified the essential skills required to drive growth and innovation in the sector while assessing the state of skills development. This involved evaluating the capacity of training institutions - including TVETs, colleges, and universities - to meet industry needs, examining infrastructure, human resources, curriculum relevance, and the alignment of training programs with market requirements. Additionally, we explored disparities in skill distribution based on gender and geography and identified strategic investment opportunities for the African Development Bank to enhance workforce development in agribusiness.

The project was carried out in two key phases. Phase one involved a comprehensive literature review, including the collection and analysis of relevant research, leading to the preparation of an inception report. Phase two focused on primary data collection, in-depth analysis, and the development of both draft and final reports, which we presented to key stakeholders.

Through this study, we provided valuable insights into the agribusiness skills landscape, paving the way for targeted interventions that will strengthen training systems, bridge skill gaps, and create new opportunities for industry growth and economic development in Uganda, Zambia, and Sierra Leone.