In a powerful call to action, Mr. Claver Gatete, the Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), addressed the urgent need for transformation in Africa’s food systems during the Africa Food Systems Forum 2025. The forum, held this past Tuesday in bustling Dakar, Senegal, gathered leaders, innovators, and stakeholders from across the continent to tackle one of Africa’s most pressing issues: food security.
Despite possessing vast arable land, rich water resources, and a youthful demographic, Africa’s dependency on food imports reached a staggering 5 billion in 2024. This paradox—where the continent has the potential to be self-sufficient yet relies heavily on imports—demanded immediate attention, as Gatete pointed out. The recent rise in hunger across Africa, even after a decade of implementing the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP), underscored the necessity for coordinated and accelerated action.
In response to these challenges, Gatete welcomed the newly adopted CAADP Strategy and Action Plan for 2026-2035. This ambitious plan aims to boost agrifood output by an impressive 45%, significantly reduce post-harvest losses, and enhance local food processing by 35%.
A noteworthy part of Gatete’s message centered around the end of the era characterized by abundant foreign aid. He emphasized that Africa must now pivot towards mobilizing domestic resources and attracting private investments. This includes tapping into pension funds, remittances, and innovative financing solutions such as green bonds, presenting an opportunity for individuals and businesses alike to pave the way for agricultural transformation.
Furthermore, Gatete advocated for the robust implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to dismantle trade barriers, aiming to increase intra-African agrifood exports by nearly 60% by 2045. This aligns with broader strategic goals to foster economic growth across the continent.
In his comprehensive approach, Gatete outlined six critical recommendations to reform food systems. These highlighted the need to align national budgets with food commitments and scale up innovative financing targeted at empowering women and youth—the future of agriculture. He also stressed investing in rural infrastructure, affirming that transforming food systems is not merely about feeding people; it is about dignity, sovereignty, and ensuring Africa secures its rightful place in the global economy.
As we move forward, it’s clear that the time for action is now. The journey towards self-sufficiency in food production could redefine Africa’s economic landscape, reshaping the narrative of a continent rich in resources and possibilities.
Stay tuned to Africazine for more updates on this crucial initiative.
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