Exploring the Potential of Blockchain Technology in The Agricultural Industry in East Africa

The African continent is widely acknowledged as a paramount player in the realm of agriculture, boasting a staggering 60% of the world's cultivable land. In light of the escalating population growth and the surging demand for agricultural commodities, the agri-food industry is increasingly resorting to the incorporation of advanced technologies such as Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). The advent of the fourth industrial revolution has facilitated the integration of innovative technologies, including Blockchain and the Internet of Things, within the operations of the agricultural sector. In the postmodern era of globalization, new technologies play a vital role in facilitating international interactions and the exchange of goods, services, information, and capital. The agriculture sector faces numerous challenges, including population growth, climate change, natural disasters, biodiversity loss, and pest outbreaks. This paper reviews the literature on the use of blockchain technology in the agriculture and food supply chain. It presents the case of the East African Community bloc of countries as an example of its potential impact, particularly in these emerging countries. The findings suggest that blockchain technology has the potential to transform the entire agriculture sector and contribute to addressing the global food crisis. The paper also critically discusses blockchain technology's limitations, challenges, and potential in agriculture.