BIOETHICAL ASPECTS OF PHILANTHROCAPITALISM IN AGRICULTURE

Abstract

This paper explores the bioethical aspects of philanthrocapitalism in agriculture, focusing on the Gates Foundation’s activities in the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA). The Foundation has played a pivotal role in AGRA’s mission to transform African agriculture by promoting modern techniques and inputs, such as genetically modified seeds and synthetic fertilisers. Proponents argue that this initiative could significantly enhance productivity and food security in Africa. However, critics highlight bioethical issues, including the creation of dependency on external agricultural inputs, the marginalisation of small farmers, the displacement of traditional agricultural practices, the promotion of genetically modified crops, and the Foundation’s significant influence on national agricultural policies. This paper will analyse these bioethical issues and evaluate their implications for African farmers, local communities, and food sovereignty. It will stress the crucial need for an inclusive, transparent, and equitable approach to agricultural development that respects local knowledge and prioritises sustainable and ecological agricultural practices, as this is essential for the ethical advancement of agriculture.