Mastercard has partnered with Agriculture Summit Africa 2025, hosted by Sterling Bank in Abuja, to promote digital empowerment for farmers through technology-driven solutions.

The partnership was unveiled at a press conference held at Sterling Bank’s headquarters.

ASA serves as a leading platform for advancing agricultural transformation and building sustainable food systems across Africa.

The 2025 edition, themed “Survival of the Greenest: Reclaiming Africa’s Food Destiny,” will bring together policymakers, investors, agricultural experts, and key stakeholders to develop strategies for climate-resilient and inclusive food production.

As part of the collaboration, Mastercard will host a special session titled “Harnessing Digital Tools for an Agricultural Renaissance,” focusing on how digital innovation, data, and financial technology can drive inclusive growth and resilience in Africa’s agricultural sector.

The session will be led by Daniel Huba of Mastercard, alongside other industry leaders, including Vera Iheanacho of Sterling Bank, Tajudeen Yahaya of Extension Africa, and Emmanuel Okeleji, Chief Executive Officer of SeamlessHR.

Speaking on the partnership, Dr. Folasade Femi-Lawal, Mastercard’s Country Manager for West Africa, highlighted the company’s commitment to advancing digital inclusion in agriculture.

“Agriculture is the backbone of Africa’s economy, contributing up to 40 per cent of GDP and employing over 60 per cent of the workforce. That is why we are committed to driving digital inclusion across Africa’s agricultural ecosystem,” she said.

“Through solutions such as Community Pass and efforts like the MADE Alliance, we are connecting farmers to markets, financial institutions and service providers, helping them increase productivity and income. Partnering with Agriculture Summit Africa allows us to amplify this impact and accelerate Africa’s journey towards a digitally inclusive and climate-resilient food system.”

ASA 2025 will spotlight key themes including green finance, agritech innovation, youth and women empowerment, and climate-smart agriculture, all aimed at reclaiming Africa’s food destiny through sustainability and inclusive growth.

Commenting on the partnership, Group Head of Agric and Solid Mineral Finance at Sterling Bank, Olushola Obikanye, stated, “We are delighted to welcome Mastercard as a partner for ASA 2025. Their pioneering work has shown how digital technology can transform rural economies, especially for smallholder farmers and women entrepreneurs. This partnership aligns perfectly with our vision of creating an Africa that grows smart, sustainably and for all.”