FOOD PRODUCTION. Beyond exploitation.

Byline: Sasha Planting

FOOD PRODUCTION Beyond exploitation Less than 20% of arable land in Africa is in productive use. This, coupled with the global food shortage, has prompted African governments and private investors to look at the opportunities presented in fallow land across the continent. South African private equity fund Agri-Vie has been alert to these opportunities. The fund, developed by investment firms Sanlam Private Equity and SP Actif, makes investments in agri-processing businesses. It has made five investments in sub-Saharan Africa in as many months. The sector has been neglected, says Agri-Vie director Izak Strauss. It came under the spotlight as the world woke to the possibility of food shortages. Now companies from London, the US, …