Conscious Food Systems Alliance

26 March 2026. The Royal Government of Bhutan, the Conscious Food Systems Alliance and the UN Development Programme along with partners, will host the first Global Conscious Food Systems Summit, from 31 August to 4 September in Paro, Bhutan. 

This online kick-off event of the Global Conscious Food Systems Summit 2026— featured high-level speakers including: 

• Dasho Tshering Tobgay, Prime Minister of the Royal Government of Bhutan 
• Haoliang Xu, UN Under-Secretary-General and UNDP Associate Administrator
• Hindou Ibrahim, Climate adaptation expert and Indigenous rights advocate
• Nana Woo, Human Development Programme Design Specialist, SEKEM

The contribution of Neglected and Underutilized Species (NUS) for sustainable agrifood systems transformation

26 March 2026. The contribution of Neglected and Underutilized Species (NUS) for sustainable agrifood systems transformation

• Importance of neglected and underutilised species: why do they matter?”, by Sayed Azam-Ali, CEO, Crops For the Future CFF; Chair UN High Level Panel of Experts on Food Security and Nutrition; Chair (Emeritus) Global Food Security, University of Nottingham.

• From SUSTLIVES to AgriEcoNUS+: Scaling Agrobiodiversity and NUS-Based Food Systems in Africa”, by Hamid El Bilali, Researcher, CIHEAM Bari

• NUS from a value chain development perspective”, by Emmanuel Msuya, Marketing Programme Officer, SWISSAID Tanzania

Comment of Maureen Duru, coordinator of the GFAiR Collective Action on Forgotten Foods:

"How will all these interventions ensure that communities especially in Africa, who are custodians of many NUS, retain ownership and control over their genetic resources and traditional knowledge? Are there safeguards are in place to prevent biopiracy or unfair commercialization of African indigenous crops? If these are not in place, we will still have a system that that takes from the continent for the benefit of others."

"Can the EU or relevant projects also explore integrating African diaspora entrepreneurs as key actors in developing NUS value chains between Africa and Europe. The diaspora food markets have been sustaining farmers, processors and marketers working on NUS for years".

Highlight: Main brand producing Bambara groundnut noodles

🥢 WhatIF Foods (Singapore)

• 
  👉 This Singapore-based startup is the pioneer in commercializing Bambara-based noodles globally
  

Products:

• BAMnut instant noodles (“Only Noods”)
• Variants include pumpkin, moringa, charcoal, etc.

Key features:

• Made from Bambara groundnut flour (“BamNut”)
• High protein (~16–17g per serving) and high fiber
• Produced using air-frying instead of deep frying (no palm oil)

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Resources:

Hamid El Bilali et all (2024) Mapping Research on Bambara Groundnut in Africa Bibliometric, Geographical, and Topical Perspectives 33 p.

Reviews 180 scientific publications on Bambara groundnut across Africa. This article shows its strong potential for:

• food & nutrition security
• climate resilience
• livelihoods
• Identifies major gaps:
• weak research coverage in key producing countries
• limited work on markets, processing, and socio-economics

Hamid El Bilali et all (2020) Orphan crops in Burkina Faso and Niger: a systematic review

Analyses Bambara groundnut as a neglected and underutilized species (NUS). This article highlights key constraints:

• low productivity
• lack of improved varieties
• weak agronomic practices

Hamid El Bilali et all (2026) NEGLECTED AND UNDERUTILIZED CROP SPECIES (NUS) AND AGROECOLOGY IN WEST AFRICA 13 p.

There is a widespread agreement that West African food systems need to be transformed. Neglected and underutilised crop species (NUCS/NUS) and agroecology can play a vital role in making these systems more sustainable and resilient. Therefore, this systematic review analyses the multifaceted and multidimensional relationships between NUS and agroecology as well as the potential contribution of NUS to agroecological transition in West Africa.

Background:

SUSTLIVES (Sustainable Livelihoods in Smallholder Farming Systems) is an EU-funded research and innovation project focused on improving the resilience and sustainability of smallholder farmers—particularly in Africa—through agroecological approaches. It promotes diversified farming systems, soil health restoration, and climate-smart practices while integrating socio-economic dimensions such as income diversification, gender inclusion, and local value chains. A key feature of SUSTLIVES is its use of living labs and co-creation with farmers, ensuring that innovations are locally adapted and scalable. The project ultimately aims to strengthen livelihoods while contributing to broader food systems transformation and environmental sustainability.

AgriEcoNUS+ (Agroecology Network for Sustainable Food Systems in Africa – Plus) builds on earlier agroecology networking efforts to strengthen multi-actor collaboration, knowledge exchange, and policy dialogue across Africa and Europe. The initiative focuses on scaling agroecological practices by connecting research institutions, farmer organizations, policymakers, and private sector actors. It emphasizes capacity building, evidence generation, and policy engagement, aiming to embed agroecology into national and continental strategies such as CAADP. AgriEcoNUS+ acts as a platform for coordination and influence, helping align projects, amplify impact, and support the transition toward sustainable, inclusive food systems.

PrAEctiCe CWEN Agroecology Final Conference 2026

 26 March 2026. Kajjansi, Uganda (NARO Aquaculture Research Centre). PrAEctiCe CWEN Agroecology Final Conference 2026.

The event serves as the culmination of the PrAEctiCe project, showcasing:

• Evidence from 3 agroecology living labs (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania)
• Practical applications of Circular Water–Energy–Nutrient (CWEN) systems
• Tools and indicators supporting smallholder agroecological transition

The participants for the Main Event included Consortium members, academia, agriculture technology companies, small-scale farmers, farmers’ associations, women’s associations, policy makers, private sector businesses, agricultural input suppliers, extension agents, development partners, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

Extract of the programme

The PrAEctiCe project training testimonial from smallholder Farmers and Women's Associations in East Africa.

Farmers and representatives from farmers' associations will share firsthand accounts of how engaging with the PrAEctiCe Living Labs and Agroecology systems has transformed their agricultural practices, water use, and livelihoods.

• Joel Mwambola - Sustainable Agriculture Tanzania
• Justine Bagenda, National Agricultural Research Organisation NARO
• Lovin Kobusingye, President, Uganda National Women’s Fish Organisation
• John Ochieng, Head of Programs, COFIAuganda
• Moderator: Faith Njihia, Africa Agribusiness Academy

PrAEctiCe open access training materials

This presentation introduced the PrAEctiCe training materials, “Introduction to Agroecology,” hosted on the Smart Step platform. It explored how these materials have been structured for learners and can be accessed and adapted by stakeholders.

• Blessing Sorinola, APODISSI

Evidence-based policy recommendation for economic, environmental, and social returns

This presentation outlined the economic, environmental, and social benefits of agroecological practices and present actionable policy recommendations to unlock these returns at scale.

• Emmanuel Okalany, RUFORUM

European Commission project synergies and collaborative pathways for sustained impact

This session brought together representatives from European Commission-funded projects working on agroecology, sustainable agriculture, and circular food systems to share tools, methodologies, and innovations from their respective projects, identify areas of complementarity, and discuss practical pathways for collaboration.

• Dr Erick Ogello, Maseno University, CareForAfrica project
• Godfrey Biso, Biotechnologist at Youths in Technology and Development (YITEDEV) Ruralities project
• Emmanuel Okalany, CEA FIRST project
• Morris Egesa, African Forum for Agricultural Advisory Services (AFAAS), Project Coordination Assistant, CANALLS project
• Moderator: Charles Gitau, Africa Agribusiness Academy

CAADP Continental Technical Workshop on the Kampala Results Framework

23 - 27 March 2026. CAADP Continental Technical Workshop on the Kampala Results Framework 

The African Union Commission (AUC), the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD), the Regional Economic Committees (RECs), and technical partners have been developing tools and guidelines to support the implementation of the CAADP Kampala agenda. Amongst these is a robust Results Framework and set of indicators to be assessed every two years at the continental level. A technical team of experts, led by IFPRI, and working with AUC/AUDA-NEPAD and partners, has undertaken initial technical work to draft a proposed CAADP Kampala Results Framework, a preliminary indicator set and technical notes. 

This consultation and technical workshop provided the platform for Member States, RECs and key
stakeholders to review the proposed Results Framework and indicators, co-design and agree on indicators (2026-2035), strengthen feasibility and ownership, and agree on a clear roadmap for implementing the biennial review system.

Specific objectives: 

• Understand, review and agree on the proposed Kampala Results Framework 
• Explore alignment between the CAADP results framework with the AU-wide strategy on Flagship Programs
• Share, understand and review the proposed Kampala BR indicators, baselines and benchmarks
• Review associated tools (technical guidelines, technical notes, and country reporting template)
• 
  Agree on governance and coordination arrangements for data collection, validation, and reporting
• Agree on an implementation roadmap for the first Kampala BR cycle.
  
  

Context

• The new CAADP Kampala strategy (2026–2035) is a flagship of Agenda 2063
• It includes 6 strategic objectives, 22 targets, and 48 interventions
• Namibia is highlighted as a leading country in aligning national plans with CAADP

New global opportunities for Belgian agri-food

24 March 2026. New global opportunities for Belgian agri-food: how can BIO support you?

BIO had the pleasure of bringing together, alongside FIT, AWEX, hub.brussels and Beyond Chocolate, a wide range of actors from the Belgian agri‑food sector for an exchange focused on international opportunities. The late‑afternoon event was marked by collaboration, curiosity, and the shared ambition to build stronger, more sustainable, and better‑connected global value chains.

Europe’s Vision: The Global Gateway Ambition

Bart Casier, from the European Commission, further illuminated this dynamic by highlighting the ambition of the Global Gateway: a Europe that goes beyond the role of donor to engage in genuine investment partnerships with Africa, Latin America and Asia. An approach built on cooperation, shared value creation, and next‑generation financing instruments that open markets, strengthen infrastructure and support high‑impact projects.

BIO’s Contribution: Financing, Partnerships and Local Impact

BIO then shared its vision and its role within this ecosystem. Through the presentation of Marie Watelet, the focus was placed on concrete ways of collaborating with Belgian companies: supporting local actors essential to supply chains, financing projects rooted in their territory, and co‑building solutions with Belgian companies whenever there is a relevant economic, social, or strategic link. The objective has remained the same from the beginning: helping companies grow where access to capital is limited, while generating lasting value for local communities.

Practical Inspiration: IDH Invest and the Power of Blended Finance

The testimony of Roel Messie, CEO of IDH Invest, offered a very concrete illustration of what innovative mechanisms such as the Farmfit Fund can achieve—from strengthening the capacity of agribusinesses to improving the incomes of hundreds of thousands of smallholder farmers. A demonstration that when investment and technical assistance advance hand in hand, the transformation of entire sectors becomes possible.

Webinars and events April 2026

1 April 2026. @14:00 CEST (Central European Summer Time). When Saving Seed Becomes a Crime
APBREBES and Third World Network will launch of the study “When Saving Seeds Becomes a Crime” which sheds light on how farmers around the world are increasingly being criminalized and harassed for saving, using, exchanging, and selling seeds. 

2 April 2026. @3:00 PM – 6:00 PM Africa Food Systems Forum 2026 Launch Ceremony.

6-7 April 2026, Dubai, UAE. 5th International Conference on Plant Science & Agricultural Research (ICPAR 2026)

14 April 2026. Brussels. Forum for the Future of Agriculture (ForumforAg) Annual Conference

15 April, 13:00-15:00 (CET) | ATIO at the 2026 Forum for the Future of Agriculture

16 April 2026. @ 16:30 Funding the future: Inside sustainable diaspora organisations

• Diaspora organisations are key actors in global development, connecting financial, human and social capital across countries of residence and heritage. Yet despite their essential role, many continue to navigate a challenging funding landscape marked by short-term financing, limited structural support and heavy reliance on voluntary contributions.
• To better understand these dynamics, EUDiF commissioned the study “Business models of diaspora organisations”, prepared by the diaspora-led Innogence Consulting with contributions from Maria Regina Tongson and Michelle Amoakoh. The research identifies seven business models and sheds light on the creativity, constraints and financial logics shaping diaspora organisational life today.

20 - 26 April 2026. Salon International de l'Agriculture au Maroc (SIAM 2026)

The 18th edition will focus on "Durability of livestock production and food sovereignty" (Durabilité de la production animale et souveraineté alimentaire).

21 - 23 April 2026. Rimini. Macfrut 2026 fruit and veg professional show

6 - 7 May 2026. GLF Africa 2026: Rangelands

25-28 May 2026 at FAO Headquarters, Rome Nutrition Week

• 25 May: Nutrition Evidence and Innovation for Shaping Agrifood Systems Transformation (thematic lead: FAO)
• 26 May: Local Food Solutions for Global Impact (thematic lead: WFP)
• 27 May: Aligning Financing for Nutrition Integration (thematic lead: IFAD)
• 28 May: Delivering as One for Coherent Nutrition Action (thematic lead: UNN)
• Proposals can be submitted via this form by 13 March 2026 (COB).

9 - 11 June 2026. Stuttgart. Agroecology, Climate Resilience, and Indigenous and Underutilised Crops: Rethinking Value Chains for Sustainable Food Futures

1-2 July 2026. Utrecht, the Netherlands. Land, Conflict, and Peace conference

15-17 July 2026 – Nairobi, Kenya. Africa Food Manufacturing Kenya & Eastern Africa

16 July 2026 – Nairobi, Kenya. Africa Food Awards

27–31 July 2026 in Abuja, Nigeria. 9th Africa Agriculture and Science Week AASW9 and the 10th FARA General Assembly

25 - 26 August 2026. Leuven, KU Leuven. Plant-Based Fermented Foods for Healthier and More Sustainable Diets - HealthFerm Final Conference

8-10 September 2026, Dubai World Trade Centre, UAE. Agra Middle East 2026 (AgraME 2026)

September 2026. Africa Food Systems Forum 2026


16 to 18 September 2026 in Göttingen (Germany) and online. TROPENTAG under the theme 'Towards multi-functional agro-ecosystems promoting climate-resilient future'.

The call for abstracts is now open. You can submit abstracts for either in-person or online presentations until 24 April 2026 via the Submission Portal
The call for workshops is open until 3 May 2026. If you are interested in organizing a workshop, FILL IN THIS TEMPLATE and send it to info@tropentag.de no later than 3 May.15-17 September 2026 – Lagos, Nigeria Africa Food Manufacturing Nigeria & Western Africa

22–25 September 2026. Nairobi (Kenya). Smart Agriculture: Innovation, Digital Transformation, and Trade for a Climate-Challenged Africa.
The event invites papers and proposals on topics like climate-smart ag, agri-finance, digital tech, value chains, and gender/youth in agriculture, with submissions due by March 31, 2026
by African Association of Agricultural Economists (AAAE).
October 2026. FAO’s World Food Forum (WFF) Youth Assembly
This is a year-round platform for youth engagement in agrifood systems. It includes ongoing virtual and thematic consultations throughout the year and typically culminates in activities around the flagship World Food Forum event in October.19–23 October 2026. FAO HQ, Rome, Italy. CFS 54th Plenary Session

19-30 October 2026. Seventeenth meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity

31 October 2026. International Conference on Agroforestry Systems for Climate Adaptation and Biodiversity (ICASCAAB-2026)
Focuses on agroforestry systems, climate adaptation, and biodiversity — a platform for researchers and practitioners to share developments in the field.25-27 November 2026. Santiago, Chile. XI CONGRESSO LATINOAMERICANO DE AGROECOLOGIA

International symposium on Beverage crops South Africa

15-20 March 2026. International symposium on Beverage crops South Africa

• Under the theme ‘Beverage Crops: Sustainability and Scientific Advancements in the 21st Century,’ this symposium highlighted the latest research, technological innovations, and industry trends shaping the future of beverage crop production and processing.
• This theme reflects the growing importance of beverage crops in sustainable agriculture, nutrition, and global trade. Beverage crops encompass a vast diversity of fruits, nuts, vegetables, vine and berry fruits, and botanical plants used for fresh juices, extracts, fermentations, and infusions.
• From widely consumed beverages such as coffee, tea, beer, and wine to emerging plant-based alternatives like almond and soy beverages, as well as herbal infusions rich in bioactive compounds—including the proudly South African Rooibos tea—this symposium provided a platform for scientific exchange, innovation, and industry collaboration.
• This event built on the success of previous symposia held in Cairns, Australia (2016), Xi’an, China (2018), and Murcia, Spain (2023)

Extracts of the programme

16/03 Indigenous, underutilized and culturally significant crops 

• Chair: Prof. Adeyemi Aremu
• Community-Based Participatory Research on Beverage Wild Tea Species - Dr. Nadia Araya, Mr. David Sehlola, Ms. Johleen Malaka, Ms. Retang Phaahla, Ms. Nondumiso Phaahla, Ms. Mammone Tang
• Potential Use of Moringa oleifera as a Functional Underutilized Beverage Crop - Ms. Johleen Malaka, Dr. Nadia Araya
• Ethnobotanical Appraisal of Ziziphus mucronata as a Reproductive Health Beverage - Ms. Hlengiwe Khumalo, Dr. James Lwambi Mwinga, Prof. Adeyemi Oladapo Aremu
• Traditional Beverage Potential of Mpesu (Securidaca longipedunculata) for Male Health in South Africa - Dr. Nadia Araya, Mr. Wilson Libago, Ms. Johleen Malaka
• Medicinal and beverage uses of Myrothamnus flabellifolius Welw. (resurrection plant) for good health and well-being in Southern Africa - Ms. Keloabetswe Mokgau, Dr. James Lwambi Mwinga, Dr. Makhotso Lekhooa, Prof. Stephen O. Amoo, Prof. Adeyemi O. Aremu
• Nutritional and beverage potential of five edible fruit species consumed by Mapulana people in Mpumalanga Province of South Africa - Dr. Kutullo N. Shai, Dr. Khae Ncama, Dr. James Lwambi Mwinga, Prof. Stephen O. Amoo, Prof. Adeyemi O. Aremu

16/03  Indigenous crops, traditional fermentation and processing 

• 
  Chair: Prof. Oluwafemi Adebo
  
• Characterization of Autochthonous Marula Wine Yeasts Growth Dynamics, Nutrient utilization and Stress Tolerance - Prof. Tieho Paulus Mafeo, Prof. Kgabo Moganedi, Dr. Annastatia Lekganyane, Dr. Lesetja Legodi, Mr. Ramoba, Louis, Ms. Ayishah Seimela
• The physicochemical properties and microbial diversity of spoiled marula fruits - Prof. Tieho Paulus Mafeo, Dr. Perpetua Tebeila, Ms. Dzuvha Mulaudzi, Prof. Kgabo Lydia Moganedi
• Chemical composition and bioactive analysis of the marula fruit juice after the pretreatment and fermentation - Ms. Matholo Joyce Mothapo, Dr. Lesetja Moraba Legodi, Prof. Kgabo L Maureen, Moganedi
• Probiotic Potential and Health-Promoting Properties of Microorganisms Isolated from Spontaneously Fermented Marula Fruit Wine - Ms. Matholo Joyce Mothapo, Dr. Annastasia Lekganyane, Ms. Amahle Ntluko, Ms. Lilian Makgoo, Prof. Kgabo Moganedi, Mr. Louis Ramoba
• Exploitation of marula fruit wine's wild yeasts as suitable candidates for industrial craft beer brewing - Ms. Matholo Joyce, Mothapo, Loius Ramoba, Prof. Kgabo Moganedi, Dr. Annastatia Lekganyane
• Exploration of bacteria involved in spontaneous fermentation of umqombothi (an indigenous South African beverage) - Prof. Oluwafemi Adebo, Prof. Patrick Njoberh, Mr. Wisdom Tizayi, Ms. Lungani Nyathi, Mr. Edwin Vukosi

19/03 Cross-cutting and interdisciplinary futures

• Unlocking the beverage potential of plants identified among the Yoruba-speaking people in Nigeria - Prof. Adeyemi Oladapo Aremu, Basirat O. Ms. Rafiu, Assist. Prof. Abiodun O. Omotayo, Prof. Ibraheem O. Lawal
• Potential of Eswatini indigenous plants in the nutraceutical beverage industry- a review - Dr. Patricia Carmichael, Dr. Kwanele Andy Nxumalo, Ms. Menzi P. Ms. Ngwenya, Mr. Vusumuzi Vilane, Dr. Gugu Sibandze
• Chemical diversity and variability in essential oil composition across three underutilised Agathosma species for potential beverage crop preservation - Dr. Yardjouma Silue, Neliswa H. Ms. Gcabashe, Prof. Olaniyi A. Fawole
• Cultural and nutritional benefits of Ximenia afra var afra among the Bapedi and Vhatsonga people in Mopani district, Limpopo Province - Mathabe P. Maake, Dr. Makhotso Lekhooa, Prof. Dr. Adeyemi O. Aremu, Prof. Stephen Amoo

Financing Flows for Sustainable Food Systems

19 March 2026. Brussels. Financing Flows for Sustainable Food Systems. Organised by Plateforme Agriculture et Sécurité Alimentaire.

The geopolitical shifts of recent years have been accompanied by a significant decline in development aid funding at all levels of government. As a result, funding for food security and sustainable food systems is drying up.  This situation is prompting international cooperation actors to explore new sources of funding and investment. The Global Gateway, which was discussed at a previous PASA session, sets out a new European framework. Blending finance is increasingly being promoted as a solution to invest in sustainable food systems.  The objectives of this meeting were:

• Gain a better understanding of existing funds and opportunities. 
• Ensure better access to finance for smallholder producers and sustainable food systems (SFS). 
• Examine the challenges and opportunities of blending. 
• Learn about the recommendations issued by the CFS. 
• Present examples of good practices by Belgian development cooperation actors.  

Speakers:

• White Paper: An integrated investment framework for climate-adaptive and water-resilient food systems (35 p)- Jahan-Zeb Chowdhury, Lead Technical Specialist for Environment and Climate at IFAD (Online)  
• Lizah Makombore, Institute for Agroecology, University of Vermont - “Agroecology and public development banks” Report - Coalition against Hunger
• Jérémy Thirion, Global Gateway Advisor at DGD - Global Gateway Investment Hub - State of Play 
• Presentation of a case study in Benin - Enabel & BIO-Invest 
  

Resources:

Makombore, L. and C. R. Anderson. (2025). Agroecology and Public Development Banks: Transforming Development Finance for Equity and Resilience. UVM Institute for Agroecology. Burlington, Vermont. (74 p) 

• This report outlines how public development banks can shift funding away from industrial agriculture toward agroecology to support sustainable food systems. 
• Produced by the UVM Institute for Agroecology, the report recommends reforming mandates to prioritize human rights and environmental health through six key actions.

IFAD An integrated investment framework for climate-adaptive and water-resilient food systems (35 p)

• 
  This paper advocates for global collaboration to fill the $500 billion to $1 trillion annual investment gap in climate-adaptive, water-resilient food systems. These systems prioritize long-term sustainability over shortterm gains by balancing agricultural productivity with the preservation of nature, biodiversity, and ecosystems.
• Around 60% of climate adaptation projects focus on water, highlighting the close connection between
• water resources, climate resilience, and agricultural productivity. These projects offer significant benefits, not only enhancing agricultural resilience and productivity, but also boosting nutrition and health from improved soil and water quality. 
• However, the paper reveals that financing for such projects faces numerous structural and design-specific challenges.

European Carbon Farming Summit

17-19 March 2026. Padua, 
Italy. European Carbon Farming Summit.

The Summit aimed to accelerate the transition to scalable and credible carbon farming in Europe by bringing together science, policy, finance, and practice. It focused on moving from pilot initiatives to real implementation, aligning stakeholders to deliver measurable climate impact while ensuring value for farmers and land managers. Core goals included: Bridging science, policy, and practice Scaling regenerative agriculture and carbon markets Developing robust standards, MRV systems, and financing models Supporting EU climate policy (e.g. Carbon Removal Certification Framework).

The European Carbon Farming Summit 2026 served as a multi-stakeholder, action-oriented platform that advanced discussions on practices, standards, and MRV systems, with the overarching goal of turning carbon farming from fragmented pilots into credible, scalable, and policy-aligned systems across Europe.

Extract of the programme

19 March: Parallel Session 5. Opportunities for Cooperation on Agroforestry Carbon Farming Between European Research Projects, and Extension to Projects Operating in Africa

This session

• Facilitated knowledge exchange between Europe and Africa on agroforestry carbon farming
• Explored collaboration between EU and Africa-based projects
• Addressed shared MRV challenges, methodologies, and scaling opportunities
• Aimed to strengthen cross-regional coordination and avoid duplication

Speakers

• European Agroforestry Federation (EURAF)
• Thünen Institute
• Technical University of Munich (TUM)
• ecosostenibile.eu S.r.l. Società Benefit
• AfroGrow (explicit Africa-linked organisation)
• CSIC (Spanish National

Innovation Session: On-the-Ground Impact, Regenerative Practices, Biodiversity, and 
Ecosystem Co-Benefits

Abdul-Rauf Brenya, Executive Managing Director of A. R. Brenya Company Ltd - Today's Agriculture in Africa. 

Brenya Company Ltd is a diversified enterprise operating in Africa, with activities spanning agriculture (including farming and related value chains), import–export trade, recruitment services, and travel/logistics support. The company also positioned itself within discussions on climate-smart agriculture, soil health, and carbon farming, reflecting engagement in sustainability-oriented agricultural practices and knowledge sharing.

Global Conference on Women in Agri-Food Systems (GCWAS-2026)

12–14 March 2026. The Global Conference on Women in Agri-Food Systems (GCWAS-2026), held in March 2026 in New Delhi under the theme “Driving Progress, Attaining New Heights,” brought together global stakeholders—including policymakers, researchers, women farmers, entrepreneurs, and development organizations—to advance gender equality in agriculture. 

The conference highlighted the central role of women in agri-food systems and focused on promoting inclusive policies, strengthening women’s leadership and economic empowerment, and leveraging technology for transformation. 

Key discussions addressed access to markets, finance, innovation, and capacity building, while dedicated platforms such as the Women Farmers’ Forum and Youth Forum amplified grassroots voices and future leadership. The event is expected to contribute to a global roadmap with actionable recommendations, strengthened partnerships, and scalable solutions to support women as key drivers of sustainable and resilient agri-food systems.

Session 1 – Interface with Global Women Trailblazers

This session explored leadership journeys of prominent women who had shaped agricultural science, innovation, and policy. The discussion highlighted the importance of women’s leadership in decision-making across research institutions, international organizations, and the private sector. Participants reflected on how mentorship, education, and institutional support had enabled women to break barriers in agri-food systems and emphasized the need to strengthen global networks that support emerging women leaders.

• Ismahane Elouafi – CGIAR
• Renu Swarup – Government of India
• Purvi Mehta – Global Center on Adaptation

Session 2 – Driving Progress, Attaining New Heights

This session showcased inspiring case studies from women scientists, entrepreneurs, farmers, and industry leaders who had advanced innovation in agri-food systems. Presenters shared personal and professional experiences demonstrating how women had overcome structural barriers and expanded their impact through technology adoption, leadership in research institutions, and entrepreneurial initiatives. The session emphasized the importance of visible role models and success stories in motivating the next generation of women in agriculture.

• Purnima Menon – International Food Policy Research Institute
• Usha Barwale Zehr – Grow Indigo
• Meenesh Shah – National Dairy Development Board

Session 3 – Mainstreaming Gender Equality and Social Inclusion

This session examined strategies for integrating gender equality into agricultural policies, research programs, and institutional frameworks. Experts discussed approaches for ensuring equitable participation of women across value chains, including access to resources, training, leadership opportunities, and decision-making processes. The discussions emphasized the role of gender-responsive policies and inclusive institutional systems in creating fair and sustainable agri-food systems.

• Dina Nijjar – International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas
• Nitya Rao – University of East Anglia
• Aly Abousabaa – ICARDA

Session 4 – Emerging and Disruptive Technologies for Gender-Transformative Change

This session highlighted the role of emerging technologies in transforming women’s participation in agriculture. Discussions focused on digital agriculture, artificial intelligence, climate-smart technologies, and women-friendly farm tools designed to reduce drudgery and enhance productivity. Speakers demonstrated how inclusive technological innovation could empower women farmers and entrepreneurs while strengthening sustainable agri-food systems.

• Bram Govaerts – International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center
• Nick Austin – Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research
• Renuka Diwan – Bioprime Agrisolutions

Session 5 – Building Future Leadership in the Agri-Food Sector

This session addressed the need to cultivate a new generation of women leaders in agriculture. Participants discussed mentorship networks, leadership training programs, and educational initiatives that could enable young women to develop professional skills and leadership capacity. The session emphasized that nurturing future leaders was essential for building resilient and inclusive agri-food systems.

• Rajbir Singh – Indian Council of Agricultural Research
• Rajarshi Roy Burman – ICAR
• Mridula Devi – Central Institute for Women in Agriculture

Session 6 – Empowering Women through Economic Inclusion

This session focused on economic empowerment through entrepreneurship, financial inclusion, and market participation. Presentations highlighted successful models of women-led enterprises, cooperatives, and microfinance initiatives that improved access to markets and income opportunities. Discussions emphasized the role of value chains, digital platforms, and financial services in strengthening women’s economic participation in agriculture.

• Smita Sirohi – National Institute of Agricultural Economics and Policy Research
• Pratibha Singh – ACIAR
• Sweta Singh – Corteva Agriscience

Session 7 – Gender Dynamics in Policy and Market Access

This session explored how policy frameworks and institutional reforms could improve women’s access to markets, resources, and decision-making processes. Participants discussed policy innovations that could strengthen food security and ensure that women farmers and entrepreneurs benefit from market opportunities, technology adoption, and inclusive governance structures.

• Ch Srinivas Rao – Indian Agricultural Research Institute
• Bhag Mal – Trust for Advancement of Agricultural Sciences
• JL Karihaloo – TAAS

Scaling Agroecology Through Policy-Driven Investment

12 March 2026. From Mandate to Money: Scaling Agroecology Through Policy-Driven Investment

Despite the challenging global context affecting food systems, agroecology continues to advance as a pathway towards food system transformation. This is evidenced by the emergence of national and regional policies and strategies around the world. In 2025, several countries introduced or strengthened their policy frameworks supporting agroecological transitions.

During the webinar the Agroecology Coalition launched a compendium of current National Agroecology Strategies (NAS) worldwide, along with food systems country profiles for each member country of the Agroecology Coalition, followed by a discussion on funding NAS implementation.

• Opening address: Ronnie Brathwaite, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)
• Presentation of the Compendium of National Agroecology Strategies and Country Briefs: Oliver Oliveros, Agroecology Coalition
• Moderation: Amelie Steu

Roundtable discussion with country representatives and donors

• Thatheva Saphangthong, Lao PDR
• Fernanda Machiaveli, Ministry of Agrarian Development, Brazil
• Valentina Palmeri and Guido Bissanti, Coordinamento Agroecologia Sicilia 
• Stephanie Piers De Ravenschoot, Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation
• Lauren Baker, Global Alliance for the Future of Food
• Morest Agossadou, Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations du Bénin (CDC Bénin)
• Liesa Nieskens, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ)
• John Garcia Ulloa, Biovision Foundation 
• Moderation: Oliver Oliveros, Agroecology Coalition
• Moderation: Marion Michaud, European Commission

Resources: 

As of March 2026, the following countries have adopted National Agroecology Strategies or Laws: Benin, Bolivia, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Colombia, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uruguay. Others are also in the process of developing or validating one: Ethiopia, Laos, Malawi, Nepal, Uganda, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe. This acceleration marks a significant shift in the global food systems landscape. It signals growing political recognition of agroecology as a strategic pathway toward more resilient, sustainable, and equitable food systems, and reflects a broader international momentum toward scaling agroecology.

On this page you will find National Agroecology Strategies and Laws in Benin, Bolivia, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Colombia, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uruguay

On this page, you will find 53 country briefs—one for each member government of the Agroecology Coalition.

Each country brief provides information on:

• National agricultural context
• Main food and agriculture policies, strategies, and laws currently in force, including key highlights
• Ongoing agroecology programs and projects
• International development cooperation initiatives related to agroecology
• Recent news and innovations linked to food systems and agroecology
• Agroecology Coalition member organizations in the country
• Additional resources for further reference
• These briefs offer an overview of how each country is advancing food systems transformation through agroecology, reflecting its specific social, economic, environmental, and political context.

Responsible Use of AI in Knowledge Management - KM4AgD CoP Bi-Monthly Webinar

#SavetheDate for the 2nd #KM4AgD Community of Practice Bi-Monthly Webinar Series-2026, for an insightful discussion as we explore 'Responsible Use of AI in Knowledge Management'.

The session will feature Prof. Eric Tsui, Senior Project Fellow at the Educational Research Centre of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University - PolyU, alongside expert speakers and practitioners in knowledge management and agricultural development in Africa.

📅 26 March 2026

⌚10:00 GMT

📍Via ZOOM 🔗 https://bit.ly/3N4mku3

#AI #KnowledgeManagement