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Fildah Gwati

THE Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) has urged African nations to capitalise on the ongoing Agrifood systems transformation to revolutionise their food systems and making them more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable.

The upcoming 33rd Session of the FAO Regional Ministerial Conference for Africa (ARC33), scheduled to take place in Morocco from 18 to 20 April will mark a pivotal moment for collective action among African ministers of agriculture.

FAO director general Dr Qu Dongyu said: “The conference provides one of the main continental platforms for African governments to share their perspectives and experiences on implementing agrifood systems transformation and building capacity.”

Aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals and the post-Malabo agenda, FAO’s strategic vision as outlined in its Strategic Framework 2022-2031 revolves around the concept of the Four Betters: better production, better nutrition, a better environment and a better life, leaving no one behind.

These four dimensions provide pathways for countries to revolutionise their Agrifood systems, making them more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable.

According to Dr Qu, “by encouraging better production through means such as mechanisation, digitalisation, Agrifood industrialisation and green-powered irrigation African nations can boost productivity and efficiency and enhance resilience to the climate crisis.”

In terms of nutrition, FAO collaborates with countries and partners to address the issue of inadequate access to healthy diets. With over one billion Africans unable to afford nutritious food, this initiative aims to bridge the unacceptable disparities in food accessibility.

“Promoting a better environment is crucial for Africa’s long-term future. Actions such as those under the Great Green Wall and FAO’s Green Cities Initiative help in reclaiming degraded land, promoting sustainable land use, adapting to the climate crisis and supporting sustainable urban food systems,” he said.

FAO also highlighted the urgency of addressing the climate crisis, as Agrifood systems transformation not only mitigates the impacts of climate change but also works towards reversing the damage already inflicted.

FAO added that, a better life for all could be achieved through inclusive rural transformation, women’s empowerment, addressing forced migration and creating meaningful work opportunities particularly for Africa’s youth. By leaving no one behind FAO aims to build a more equitable and prosperous Africa.

“Africa’s potential for economic growth and development is evident, with its dominance on the list of the world’s fastest-growing economies and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) promising to boost intra-African trade. The continent’s rich natural resources, vast arable land and young population present opportunities for progress and innovation,” explained Dr Qu.

FAO also stressed the need for peace and stability for sustainable development saying conflict remained a major obstacle. By addressing the root causes of hunger and poverty, it aims to lay the foundation for lasting peace and prosperity.

“Success in transforming Agrifood systems requires a collective effort from governments, civil society organisations, the private sector, UN partners and local communities. Strategic partnerships and increased investments are essential and FAO’s Hand-in-Hand Initiative facilitates collaborations between countries and investors to overcome barriers in agricultural production and trade.

“By harnessing the power of science, technology and responsible investment, African nations can unlock the continent’s true potential and create a prosperous and resilient future through Agrifood systems transformation,” said Dr Qu.