Safety on the Farm

Agriculture is pivotal in Africa’s economy, serving as a cornerstone for food security, income generation, and rural livelihoods. Despite its strategic importance, farm safety remains a largely overlooked aspect of agricultural development, leading to rising accidents, injuries, and fatalities. This 12-chapter book on safety on the farm is inspired by my commitment to addressing these challenges and reducing the human cost of agricultural activities in the African sub-region.
The prevalence of farm-related incidents stems from limited awareness of safety measures and inadequate reporting systems. Agriculture’s informal sector tag further exacerbates this neglect, leaving many farm mishaps unaddressed. Yet, the health and safety of farmers are crucial to achieving food security, economic growth, and sustainable agricultural practices across the continent.
Current agricultural policies in Africa rarely address farm safety, failing to consider the impact of mechanization and modern agricultural techniques on workers’ health. In contrast, developed countries have established safety frameworks that Africa must emulate to protect its farmers. As agriculture in Africa undergoes modernization, this book provides a timely guide to equipping farmers with the knowledge and skills to navigate emerging agro-technologies safely.
Farm safety is integral to preserving human capital, a critical determinant of productivity and economic growth. By adopting pragmatic safety measures, this book aims to enhance morale, reduce injuries and diseases, and improve the overall performance of the agricultural sector. Ultimately, this book, Safety on the Farm, offers a practical solution to overcome the health and safety bottlenecks hindering African agricultural development.