From September 2nd to 6th, 2024, Kigali will become the epicenter of agricultural innovation and collaboration as it hosts the Africa Food Systems Forum (AFS Forum) Annual Summit. The event, which is themed “Innovate, Accelerate, and Scale,” is expected to bring together a diverse array of stakeholders from across the continent, including policymakers, researchers, farmers, and private sector leaders, to explore and advance solutions to the pressing challenges facing Africa’s food systems.
Jean Paul Ndagijimana, the Rwanda Country Director for the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), emphasized the unique nature of the summit, which facilitates dialogue among varied sectors within the agricultural landscape.
“This summit is of great importance because it’s not often that you have heads of state, private sector leaders, farmers, researchers, and cooperatives all gathered in one place to discuss a common issue. We will be focusing on three main topics: first, how to leverage innovation to tackle the challenges in agriculture; second, how to accelerate the scaling of successful initiatives, ensuring that we can achieve results faster, reducing the time it would normally take from 20 years to perhaps 10; and third, how to ensure food security by expanding successful agricultural practices both locally and internationally,” he said.
Jean Paul Ndagijimana, Country Director of AGRA Rwanda
A significant portion of the summit will be dedicated to addressing the impacts of climate change on agriculture, with discussions led by experts in the field.
“One full day will be devoted to climate change, with three major areas of focus. Experts will discuss strategies to protect ourselves from the negative impacts of climate change, ensuring that our agricultural systems are resilient,” Ndagijimana noted.
Dr. Olivier Kamana, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources
Dr. Olivier Kamana, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources, highlighted the opportunities the summit will create, particularly for young agricultural entrepreneurs.
“This year’s summit is highly anticipated. It will bring our farmers together with those from other countries, providing a unique platform for young people with innovative ideas to advance agriculture. There are numerous opportunities, especially for youth with well-developed projects, as they will have the chance to meet and connect with investors from various countries, including our own,” Dr. Olivier Kamana said.
Amath Pathé Sene, Managing Director of AFS
Amath Pathé Sene, Managing Director of Africa’s Food Systems Forum, described the forum as a key event that draws together stakeholders from all corners of the agricultural sector.
“The Africa Food System Forum is the continent’s premier platform for discussions on food systems and agriculture. It brings together policymakers, private sector leaders, academics, young people, women, and farmers to accelerate the transformation of our food systems. Every year, the summit gathers these stakeholders to reflect on progress, share best practices, and explore how we can accelerate and deliver faster, smarter, and better results across the continent,” Amath Pathé Sene said.
The Africa Food Systems Forum 2024 is poised to be a catalyst for change, driving the adoption of innovative practices and the rapid scaling of successful agricultural initiatives. It will serve as a critical platform for fostering collaboration among key players in Africa’s food systems, paving the way for a more resilient and sustainable agricultural future for the continent.
By Carine Kayitesi
