The ‘hidden middle’: the transformation of agri-food systems in Africa

📅 Published: August 15, 2025

📰 Source: theindependent

Curated by AllZimNews.com

These players facilitate medium-length value chains across a range of commodities that are in demand by (mostly) urban consumers, both in relation to inputs and marketed outputs of farm production.

Studies show that this sector is under-recognised, but large and vibrant, and increasingly transforming agricultural value chains, generating value and employment across Africa.

Tom Reardon, lead author of the AGRA and IFAD reports that have highlighted this phenomenon so effectively, argued at a launch event: “The African food system is constrained…but we’ve found a quiet revolution at the grassroots level in African supply chains….

That is, in the segments that are closest to the farmer, made up of agro-dealers, truckers, processors, wholesalers and street vendors, among others.

And it’s here, in the hidden middle, that rapid advancements are being made, with huge potential for growth. ”
As the reports argue, “About 40% of non-farm employment is in “agri-food system” work, such as wholesale, logistics, processing, and retail.

This means that about 25% of overall rural employment is in this work, making it crucial for rural families.

It is especially important in peri-urban areas and in areas just beyond the peri-urban, the intermediate rural area, to women and youth. ”
The role of ‘hidden middle’ entrepreneurs, connected in complex usually informal networks, is also vital for food security since around 80% of Africa’s food consumption is marketed and handled mostly through private operators.

With the massive flow of often processed food to towns and cities (rising by 800% in 25 years across Africa) from diverse small-scale rural producers, there are many people involved.

Unlike the assumptions of many policy proclamations, these reports argue that this is not a ‘broken’ value chain and there is no ‘missing middle’ to be filled by new interventions.

Instead there is a vast, vibrant hidden middle, fostering a major transformation in food and farming systems across Africa.

While I am not convinced that the evolutionary schema offered by these reports — from traditional to transitional to modern  is useful, as there are many pathways of change, the recognition of this area of activity and calls for its support are important.

Much of this is informal, improvised and constantly adapting to changing circumstances.