Inclusive Green Agricultural Business Model Innovation for Rural Africa: A Conceptual Framework

Abstract

Based on a literature review, this study proposes a conceptual framework for transforming traditional agribusinesses in Africa into inclusive and green ones through inclusive business model innovation (IBMI) and green business model innovation (GBMI). The main contribution is the development of an integrated framework for IBMI and GBMI in response to the need for both types of innovation in order to address the socio-economic and environmental challenges that smallholder farmers face in Africa. The inclusive green agricultural business model innovation (IGABMI) framework proposed is more consistent with the inclusive green economy concept, which is viewed as the pathway to achieving sustainable development. It differs from the sustainable business model innovation (SBMI) framework by being more operational with respect to the social dimension (inclusiveness). Green agricultural value chain (GAVC) is used as an example of inclusive green agricultural business model (IGABM). Moreover, a framework for assessing and monitoring achievement towards IGABM is proposed. Overall, this study provides guidelines for developing IGABMs in Africa and other developing regions.