A chorus of voices from across Africa is calling for a radical overhaul of the continent’s agrifood systems. Parliamentarians representing 20 African nations have united in a powerful plea to the African Union and its member states to adopt a bold and inclusive approach to transforming this critical sector over the next decade.
Speaking at the Africa Food Systems Summit 2024 in Kigali, Rwanda, Jeremy Lissouba, Secretary General of the African Food Systems Parliamentary Network (AFSPaN), sounded the alarm on the urgent need for change. He criticized the slow pace of implementation of existing initiatives like the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) and the post-Malabo commitments.
“While the 10 per cent agriculture budget allocation is a significant step forward, it falls short of what is needed to address the continent’s complex food security challenges,” Lissouba emphasized. “We need a more ambitious and inclusive approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of food systems and the critical role they play in achieving sustainable development.”
The parliamentarians’ call for transformation is rooted in the recognition that the continent’s current agrifood systems are failing to meet the needs of its growing population. Despite significant progress in recent years, hunger and malnutrition persist, and millions of Africans remain trapped in poverty.
Lissouba urged the African Union to take a leading role in driving this transformation. He called for the development of a comprehensive roadmap that outlines clear targets, priorities, and strategies for action. This roadmap should be informed by extensive consultation with stakeholders at all levels, including farmers, producers, consumers, and civil society organizations.
“We need to create a more enabling environment for smallholder farmers, who form the backbone of our agrifood systems,” Lissouba said. “This includes investing in rural infrastructure, providing access to finance, and promoting the use of sustainable agricultural practices.”
The parliamentarians’ call for a bold and inclusive approach to transforming Africa’s agrifood systems is timely and essential. By working together, African leaders and stakeholders can create a more sustainable, resilient, and equitable food future for the continent.
