As the Africa Food Systems Forum prepares to host its highly anticipated annual conference next week, Amath Sene, the Managing Director of the forum, took the opportunity to reflect on the organization’s journey, highlighting both its achievements and the formidable challenges still facing Africa’s agricultural sector.
In an exclusive interview with Taarifa, Sene emphasized the transformative evolution of the Africa Food Systems Forum, noting its transition from a mere conference to a robust platform dedicated to agenda-setting and policy reforms.
“From an institutional point of view,” Sene remarked, “having more resources, a solid structure, and diligent follow-up mechanisms have been instrumental in our growth.”
The forum, Sene stressed, serves as a crucial nexus for African stakeholders, fostering collaboration and synergy among partners to tackle the continent’s pressing agricultural issues.
“African problems must be addressed by Africans first,” he asserted, underlining the imperative of African ownership in crafting sustainable solutions.
With the headquarters situated in Rwanda, Sene commended the country’s conducive environment and unwavering commitment to agricultural development.
“Rwanda’s exemplary leadership in agriculture, vibrant private sector, and strong institutional support make it an ideal hub for hosting our forum,” he affirmed, expressing optimism about Rwanda’s pivotal role in advancing the continental agenda on food systems.
Looking beyond the forum’s achievements, Sene delved into the formidable challenges confronting Africa’s agricultural landscape.
Climate change and conflicts emerged as pressing concerns, posing significant threats to food production and security across the continent.
Despite these challenges, Sene remained resolute in the forum’s commitment to mobilizing partners and stakeholders to catalyze tangible solutions.
“As we gear up for our annual conference,” Sene remarked, “we are deeply cognizant of the urgent need to address climate change and conflicts, which disrupt food value chains and jeopardize food security.”
He underscored the forum’s proactive approach in convening diverse stakeholders to collectively tackle these multifaceted challenges.
Indeed, the Africa Food Systems Forum stands as a beacon of hope, bringing together governments, private sector actors, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to chart a sustainable path forward for Africa’s agricultural sector.
With the annual conference on the horizon, stakeholders eagerly anticipate fruitful discussions and collaborative initiatives aimed at transforming Africa’s food systems for the better.
