Blockchain Technology: Improving Agricultural Supply Chain Efficiency and Transparency – A Review
Timothy Mwewa
Mukuba University, Itimpi, Kitwe, Copperbelt Province, P.O. Box 20382, Zambia.
Gilbert Lungu
School of Natural Resources Management, Copperbelt University, P.O. Box 21692, Kitwe, Zambia.
Benson Turyasingura
Africa Centre of Excellence for Climate-Smart Agriculture and Biodiversity Conservation, Haramaya University, Dire Dawa, P.O. Box 138, Ethiopia and Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Kabale University, Kabale, P.O. Box 317, Uganda.
Yusuf Umer
Mukuba University, Itimpi, Kitwe, Copperbelt Province, P.O. Box 20382, Zambia.
Agnes Uwimbabazi
Department of Nature Conservation Rwanda Polytechnic-Integrated Polytechnic Reginal College of Kitabi, Rwanda, P.O. Box 330 Huye Rwanda & Copperbelt University, Zambia, Jambo Drive, Riverside, P.O. Box 21692, Kitwe, Zambia.
Fredrick Kayusi
Department of Environmental Studies, Geography & Planning, Maasai Mara University, -861-20500, Narok, Kenya and Department of Environmental Sciences, Pwani University, -195-80108, Kilifi, Kenya.
Petros Chavula *
Africa Centre of Excellence for Climate-Smart Agriculture and Biodiversity Conservation, Haramaya University, Dire Dawa, P.O. Box 138, Ethiopia.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
The agricultural sector is a cornerstone of economic development and food security in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). However, the region's agricultural supply chains face persistent challenges, including inefficiencies, lack of transparency, and limited traceability. These issues result in high post-harvest losses, unfair pricing for farmers, and compromised consumer trust. Blockchain technology, with its decentralized, immutable, and transparent ledger system, has emerged as a promising solution to address these challenges. This review explores the application of blockchain technology in improving efficiency and transparency within agricultural supply chains in SSA. By integrating blockchain with smart contracts, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and real-time data sharing, stakeholders can automate processes, enhance traceability, and reduce transaction costs. For instance, blockchain-based platforms can provide farmers with direct market access, ensuring fairer prices and reducing the influence of intermediaries. Moreover, the immutable nature of blockchain ensures the credibility of supply chain data, fostering consumer trust and facilitating compliance with international quality standards. Despite its potential, blockchain adoption in SSA faces significant barriers, including high implementation costs, inadequate infrastructure, and limited technical expertise. Social challenges, such as resistance to change and low awareness of blockchain benefits, also hinder widespread adoption. To unlock blockchain’s potential, the study emphasizes the need for affordable, scalable solutions and supportive policy frameworks tailored to the unique context of SSA. This review highlights the transformative potential of blockchain in addressing critical inefficiencies and transparency gaps in SSA's agricultural supply chains. It underscores the importance of collaborative efforts among governments, private sector stakeholders, and international organizations to drive adoption and foster sustainable agricultural development in the region. By leveraging blockchain, SSA can achieve more equitable and resilient supply chains, contributing to economic growth and food security.
Keywords: Adoption, agriculture, barriers, blockchain benefits, credibility, economic development, Sub-Sahara Africa