Oleksandr Chernykh presented innovative approaches to attracting investment in the agricultural sector within the Global Youth AgriTech Network in Africa
Oleksandr Chernykh, Vice President of the Ukrainian National Lobbyists Association, presented innovative approaches to attracting investment in the agricultural sector within the framework of the Global Youth AgriTech Network project for African countries
On September 19, 2025, the Global Youth AgriTech Network project aimed at developing agri-technologies and supporting young innovation teams in Africa hosted a panel discussion “Scaling Agritech Innovation Through Strategic Supply Chain Partnerships”. The event brought together international experts, scientists and business leaders to discuss scaling agri-tech and forming strategic partnerships in global supply chains.
Panelists:
- Oleksandr Chernykh, Vice President of the National Association of Lobbyists of Ukraine,
- Dr. Adekunle Oke, expert on agribusiness and innovation in Africa,
- Dr. Oluwayimika Angel Adelaja, International Development and Agricultural Technology Specialist,
- Emmanuel Zoe Agbesi, representative of the business community and financial institutions, moderated by Oluwakemi Odunsi-Ujiagbe.
Key messages of Oleksandr Chernykh’s speech
1. Trust is the basis for the development of international agribusiness
“Without trust, no financing, trade or partnership mechanisms work. For small and medium-sized agricultural producers, this is the main obstacle on the way to global markets.”
2. Web 3.0 and blockchain as tools for transparency and financing
The blockchain ensures transparency, traceability, and security of transactions.
Asset tokenization allows agricultural producers to attract investment and enter international markets.
Examples from China and European banking groups demonstrate the effectiveness of such technologies in trade finance.
3. Requirements for attracting international financing
- Compliance of business processes with international standards
- Accounting and auditing according to international practices
- Business transparency and corporate governance
- Scalability of the business model
4. Communication with academic and business circles in Africa
“Establishing partnerships with African scientific and business structures opens up the prerequisites for joint innovation projects, improving food security and sustainable development of the region.”
5. The role of the state and institutions in the development of the agricultural sector
“The state, universities, research schools, and local authorities must ensure that farming becomes a prestigious and profitable business.”
The importance of the participation of the National Association of Lobbyists of Ukraine
Participation in the event is free:
- Promote Ukrainian innovations on a global level.
- Form strategic partnerships between Ukraine and African countries.
- Introduce modern technologies and transparent financial mechanisms in the agricultural sector.
- Create new opportunities for the development of Ukrainian business and its integration into the global economy.
The panel discussion became a platform for an in-depth exchange of ideas, discussion of practical cases, and identification of priorities for further cooperation between Ukraine and African countries in the field of agrotechnology.
