Africa is a continent that is full of potential. With its vast population and natural resources, it has the potential to become one of the global centres of economic growth. Notwithstanding, Africa is still struggling to cope with multiple hurdles which are blocking its optimal development. Focusing on agricultural and rural development may help the continent overcome those challenges. If sound policies are made and implemented, agriculture may sustainably serve as a neutral sector for providing growth and jobs, and it is interlinked with other sustainability issues such as water, soil and ecosystem quality.