Root, tuber and banana (RTB) crops are a major opportunity to strengthen Africa’s food security, nutrition, livelihoods, and economic growth, with the potential to generate more than USD 140 billion in additional market value by 2050.

Co-organized by the International Potato Center (CIP) and the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), this Breakthrough Event will bring together policymakers, investors, researchers, agribusinesses, and farmer organizations to explore how stronger seed systems, youth entrepreneurship, innovation, and strategic partnerships can accelerate the transformation of Africa’s RTB sector.

The session will showcase proven innovations and emerging opportunities across banana, cassava, potato, sweetpotato, and yam, while highlighting the investments, policies, and partnerships needed to move from innovation to large-scale impact.

The message is clear: Africa’s RTB potential is enormous, and the time to invest and act is now.