WAFI 2026: Green and Healthy Transformation of Agrifood Systems

17–19 September 2026, Pinggu, Beijing, China. The World AgriFood Innovation Conference (WAFI 2026) brought together the global agricultural innovation community in , under the theme “Green and Healthy Transformation of Agrifood Systems.” 

• Video recordings are available here

WAFI positioned innovation as a key driver for making agrifood systems healthier, more resilient, inclusive and sustainable. The conference is conceived not simply as an annual event, but as a platform for continuing collaboration among governments, research and academia, industry, practitioners and other actors working on food security, climate change and sustainable development. 

The 2026 conference was jointly hosted by China Agricultural University, the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, the People’s Government of Pinggu District, and CGIAR. The programme combined plenary and thematic discussions with parallel sessions, side events, innovation showcases and the World AgriFood Technology Expo, creating opportunities to connect scientific advances with policy, investment, entrepreneurship and practical application.

Innovation across the agrifood system

Reflecting the breadth of agrifood transformation, WAFI 2026 addressed topics including artificial
intelligence and digital technologies, smart agriculture, future foods, nutrition and health, livestock and aquaculture, biotechnology, policy and governance, resilience and sustainability, smallholder agriculture and green finance. This broad agenda underscored that transforming agrifood systems requires more than increasing agricultural productivity: technological innovation needs to connect with environmental sustainability, human health, viable businesses and effective institutions.

16 + 17/09 AI-Driven Global Agrifood Transformation 

• Watch the recording here of 16/09: AI and Agriculture Forum
• Watch the recording here of 17/09: AI-Driven Global Agrifood Transformation

Digital innovation featured prominently. Discussions on AI and agriculture examined how emerging technologies can support agricultural modernisation and smallholder development, while other sessions explored remote sensing and the digital transformation of land and agricultural management. At the same time, the programme gave attention to regenerative agriculture, illustrating the growing interest in approaches that combine agricultural production with restoration of soils and ecosystems.

This session asked a very practical question: whether AI can actually help farmers make better decisions rather than simply produce increasingly sophisticated models. Digital Green presented farmer-facing digital extension approaches. The discussion stressed that reaching farmers digitally is only the starting point; the larger challenge is converting AI-generated information into usable agricultural decisions.

• Yvonne Pinto, Director General, International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) – moderator
• Silvia Maria Fonseca Silveira Massruha, President, Embrapa Solos
• Liu Jie, Chair Professor and Dean, Institute of Artificial Intelligence, Harbin Institute of Technology
• Rikin Gandhi, Co-founder and CEO, Digital Green.

17/09 Transforming the Food Industry for Healthy Diets and Better Nutrition

Watch the recording here of 17/09: Transforming the Food Industry for Healthy Diets and Better Nutrition

Among WAFI's prominent nutrition voices was Shakuntala Haraksingh Thilsted, CGIAR Platform Director for Nutrition, Health and Food Security Impact and 2021 World Food Prize Laureate.

18/09 Protein Diversification and Dietary Transformation

Watch the recording here of 18/09: Protein Diversification and Dietary Transformation

The emphasis on a “green and healthy” transformation also placed nutrition and health firmly within the
agricultural innovation agenda. Sessions included discussions around novel and future foods, nutrition, One Health and dietary innovation. 

This session linked dietary diversity with diversification of the food and protein base. The forum explored how protein diversification can contribute to more nutritious, sustainable and resilient food systems, including the transition from technological breakthroughs to market adoption.

• Francesco Branca, former Director of Nutrition and Food Safety, WHO
• Mengshan Chen, Director, China National Food and Nutrition Advisory Committee
• Shenggen Fan, Dean, Academy of Global Food Economics and Policy (AGFEP), China Agricultural University
• Bruce Friedrich, Founder and President, Good Food Institute; and Nicole Wu, Chief Representative & Executive Director, ProVeg China, who moderated the high-level dialogue on industrialisation of novel proteins.

19/09 Coarse Grains, Whole Grains, and the Green and Low-Carbon Transformation of Agrifood Systems

Watch the recording here of 19/09: Coarse Grains, Whole Grains, and the Green and Low-Carbon Transformation of Agrifood Systems

On the final day, WAFI hosted a dietary-fibre innovation forum addressing Low glycemic index (GI) foods and prebiotics, while a One Health forum explored connections between agrifood systems and wider health governance. 

19/09 China Africa Agricultural Science and Technology Industrial Cooperation Forum

Watch the recording here of 19/09:  China Africa Agricultural Science and Technology Industrial Cooperation Forum

This session focused on a central challenge in China–Africa agricultural cooperation: how to move from scientific and technological innovation to adoption, commercialisation and impact at scale. Discussions connected agricultural research with technology transfer, institutional capacity, markets, private-sector investment and locally appropriate innovation ecosystems.

• Antony Chapoto — Executive Director, ANAPRI. His contribution addressed the policy and institutional environment required for technology adoption, scaling and sustained private-sector investment in Africa.
• Esther Van de Voort — Director, Innovation Portfolio & Ecosystem Partnerships, Yara International. She participated in the panel “From Technology to Market: Building Sustainable China–Africa Agricultural Innovation Ecosystems,” looking at how cross-border partnerships can accelerate technology commercialisation, market access and scalable agricultural impact.
• Issa Ouedraogo — Senior Scientist, Climate Action, Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, and Country Representative in Senegal. He focused on connecting agricultural science and innovation with locally appropriate solutions and moving “from innovation to impact.”

19/09 Tropical Agriculture and South-South Cooperation

Watch the recording here of 19/09: Tropical Agriculture and South-South Cooperation

WAFI 2026 also highlighted the international character of contemporary agricultural research and innovation. Its partnership with CGIAR and engagement of international research, government and private-sector actors provided a space for linking China's agricultural science and innovation capacity with global research networks.

This session centred on two linked themes: “Green, Low-Carbon and Sustainable Transformation of Tropical Agriculture” and “Strengthening South–South Cooperation for a Green and Healthy Agricultural Future.” The forum examined how science, technology, investment, institutional partnerships and knowledge exchange can accelerate sustainable tropical agriculture, particularly across the Global South.

• Feng Weizhe — Dean/Director, Sanya Institute of China Agricultural University; opening-session moderator. He presented the institute's work in tropical agriculture and overseas Science and Technology Backyards, including initiatives in Malawi and Brazil.
  
• Ruben G. Echeverría (picture) — Senior Adviser, Agricultural Research for Development; opening remarks. He argued that South–South cooperation should evolve beyond one-way technology transfer toward long-term partnerships encompassing research, investment, business and innovation.
• Shenggen Fan — Dean and Chair Professor, Academy of Global Food Economics and Policy (AGFEP), China Agricultural University; opening remarks. He highlighted a shift from individual projects toward institutionalised South–South partnerships, including joint funds, networks and working groups.
• Sean de Cleene — Adjunct Professor, Singapore Institute of Technology; moderator of the keynote session. He proposed rapid “sprint” cooperation that brings research, finance, farmer training and private investment together around concrete bottlenecks.
• Jiang Changshun — Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences (CATAS); keynote speaker. His contribution focused on international tropical-agriculture R&I cooperation, capacity building, germplasm, pest and disease management, technology transfer, standards and trade.
• Simon Heck — Director General, International Potato Center (CIP); keynote speaker. He discussed the expansion of potato production into tropical Asia and Africa and the need to translate advances in breeding more rapidly into farmer-accessible solutions.
• Lin Faqin — Professor, Academy of Global Food Economics and Policy, China Agricultural University; keynote speaker. He addressed agrifood-system resilience amid geopolitical conflict, input-price increases, trade restrictions and climate change, with particular attention to smallholders.
• Conrad Rein — Secretary-General, Flagship Initiative for Global Food Security; keynote speaker. His presentation, “From Knowledge to Scaling: Advancing Resilient Tropical Agriculture through South–South Cooperation,” stressed connecting knowledge, partnerships and capital to take proven solutions to scale.

See: Comments from Ruben G. Echeverria : Strong science, technology, and innovation partnerships are essential to agricultural development. Scaling them requires partners—and partnership requires trust.

"Regional networks such as FARA, CORAF, ASARECA in Africa, APAARI in Asia, and FONTAGRO in LAC can connect local and global innovation. At the global level, CGIAR provides a trusted foundation for science-based partnerships with Chinese universities, academies of science, and other organizations represented at this conference."

Turn innovation to local contexts

The discussions in Pinggu ultimately reinforced a central message: green and healthy agrifood transformation depends on connecting technological innovation with ecological sustainability, nutrition, inclusive development and international cooperation. AI, biotechnology, regenerative agriculture and novel foods can provide new possibilities, but their contribution will depend on how effectively research institutions, farmers, businesses, governments and communities work together to turn innovation into solutions appropriate to diverse local contexts.

Lessons from Fertilizer Subsidy Programmes for Agricultural Transformation in Africa

12 August 2026. Lessons from Fertilizer Subsidy Programmes for Agricultural Transformation in Africa.

Fertilizer subsidy programmes remain a key policy instrument for improving agricultural productivity, food security, and rural livelihoods across Africa. While these programmes have contributed to increased access to agricultural inputs in many countries, experiences across the continent reveal important lessons regarding programme design, implementation, targeting, productivity outcomes, market development, and long-term sustainability. 

This virtual policy dialogue, jointly organised by the Africa Fertilizer Industry Development Association (AFIDA) and the Africa Network of Agricultural Policy Research Institutes (ANAPRI), brought together researchers, policymakers, private sector actors, farmer organisations, and development partners to examine evidence from selected African countries and discuss practical lessons for strengthening future agricultural support programmes.

Related:

In order to advance this discussion, the Africa Network of Agricultural Policy Research Institutes (ANAPRI), in partnership with the World Bank, FAO, AUDA-NEPAD and AFIDA, invites submissions for the Pre-Conference Forum on “From Agricultural Subsidies to Catalytic Investments.”

The forum will bring together researchers, policymakers, private sector actors, development practitioners and other stakeholders to explore how agricultural support systems can be better aligned with public expenditure, private investment and evidence-informed policy to drive agrifood systems transformation in Africa.

ANAPRI welcomes submissions across two tracks:

1. Research Papers
2. Policy and Investment Insights

Review the submission guidelines for more information: https://www.anapri.net/call-for-evidence-policy-and-investment-insights/

Selected contributors will be sponsored to participate in the Pre-Conference Forum and attend the 13th ANAPRI Stakeholder Conference in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Submission Deadline: 21 August 2026

Highlights from the 10th FARA General Assembly and 9th Africa Agriculture Science Week

27–30 July 2026. Abuja, Nigeria. Agricultural researchers, policymakers, farmers' organizations, private-sector leaders and development partners gathered for the 9th Africa Agriculture Science Week (AASW9) and the 10th Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) General Assembly. 

Under the theme of Innovations and Partnerships for Resilient and Sustainable Agrifood Systems in Africa, the conference programme addressed four interconnected sub-themes: emerging agricultural technologies and innovations; climate-resilient agrifood systems; nutrition, health and urban food systems; and enabling impact at scale through policies, financing, capacities, institutions and inclusion. 

The programme included 25 side events and eight parallel or related sessions, with a cumulative attendance of 1,791 across the tracked sessions. Side events recorded 1,044 attendances, while parallel and other sessions attracted 747. An additional 312 participants joined selected sessions online. The exhibition brought together 35 exhibitors, including 20 national agricultural research institutes and federal colleges and 15 international and regional organisations. 

• 
  See programme
• See flickr pictures
• Article: From the Trenches to Transformation: AASW9 Sets a New Course for Agricultural
  Science, Innovation and Partnership in Africa
• Article: AASW9 Calls for African-Led Financing, Scalable Innovation and Stronger Partnerships for Agrifood Systems Transformation

27 July

• Welcome Address: Dr. Adamu Abubakar Dabban, Executive Secretary, ARCN
• Opening Remarks: Dr. Aggrey Agumya, Executive Director, FARA
• Context Presentation: “The State of African Agri-food System: Harnessing Innovation and Partnership to Achieve CAADP-Kampala Targets”: Dr. Debisi Araba, Managing Director, Akademiya2063
• Ms. Bongiwe Njobe, Chairperson of the FARA Board of Directors
• Dr. Babafemi Oyewole, CEO, PAFO
• Dr. Baboucarr Manneh, Director General, AfricaRice
• Obai Khalifa, Deputy Director, GF Africa
• Dr. Abebe Haile-Gabriel, Assistant Director General, FAO-RAF
• HE Moses Vilakati, Commissioner, AUC-ARBE
• Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha, Honorable Minister of Federal Livestock Development
• Abubakar Kyari CON, Honorable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Nigeria
• Keynote Paper: “Innovation and Partnerships for resilient and sustainable agrifood systems in Africa.” - Dr. Simeon Ehui, Director General, IITA

28 July

Overview of Science & Partnership for Agriculture Conference (SPAC)

• Dr. Irene Annor-Frempong, DRI Emeritus, FARA
• SPAC Study: “State of Agricultural Research in Africa, highlights of key trends, challenges, and opportunities.” - presented by Dr. Emmanuel Njukwe, DRI, CORAF

Panel Discussion: “Optimizing Agricultural Research to Deliver CAADP-Kampala Outcomes at the Country Level”

• 
  Facilitator: Dr. Sylvester Dickson Baguma, ExeD, ASARECA
  
• Prof. Paul Pinnock Bonsu, DG, CSIR-Ghana
• Dr. Dumisami Kutywayo Okuku, Chief Director, DRSS Zimbabwe
• Dr. Ahmed Elmekass, Director, AU-SAFGRAD
• Prof. Maher Elmaghraby, VP Production, ARC Egypt Africa
• Dr. Patrick Ketiem, DG, KALRO
• Dr. Namukolo Covic, Head, CGIAR Liaison Office for Africa

Soil Health Panel: “Interphase of Science and Private Sector Partnerships for Restoration of Africa’s degraded Soil”

• Prof. Jibrin Jibrin, SSSN
• Dr. Kennedy Were, KALRO
• Eng. Clement Asana, OCP Africa
• Dr. Mel Oluoch, Sasakawa Africa

29 July Nigeria day

1. Keynote Address I: “Nigeria’s story of Science and Technology” Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh SAN, Hon. Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology
2. Keynote Address II: “Advances in Marine and Blue Economy in Nigeria” Adegboyega Oyetola, Hon. Minister of Marine and Blue Economy
3. Keynote Address III: “Advancing Nigeria’s Livestock Industry. Pushing the technologies that matter” Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha, Hon. Minister of Federal Livestock Development
4. Keynote Address IV: “Progress on Agricultural Research in Nigeria. The change is here.” Senator Abubakar Kyari CON, Hon. Minister of Agriculture and Food Security

30 July: 10th FARA General Assembly

• Opening Remarks by FARA Chairperson Mad. Bongiwe Njobe, Chairperson of the FARA Board of Directors
• Synthesis of Outcomes of the 9th Africa Agriculture Science Week Prof. Wole Fatunbi, Ag. DRI, FARA
• The Board’s Accountability report Mad. Bongiwe Njobe, Chairperson of the FARA Board of Directors
• Highlights of the FARA Secretariat’s achievements over July 2023 – July 2026 Dr. Aggrey Agumya, Executive Director, FARA
• Amendments to the Constitution and Governance Manual Mad. Elizabeth Nsimadala, Chairperson of the Nominations and Governance Committee of the FARA Board of Directors

Side events 

Advancing Agroecology in Africa: Knowledge Exchange and Emerging Researcher Engagement uunder the Kampala CAADP Framework

Organised by the three Agroecology Regional Multi-Actor Research Networks (RMRNs - comprising RMRNEA, RADIUS in West Africa, and RAENS in Southern Africa), FARA, the Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM), the Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL) in the framework of the GIZ-led Knowledge Centre for Organic Agriculture and Agroecology in Africa (KCOA) and RAENS projects, the Joint Research Centre of the European Commission (JRC) and other relevant stakeholders.

Set up of the Agroecology Regional Multi-Actor Research Networks (RMRNs) in Africa:

• Continental: Dr. Kwaku Antwi, FARA
• East Africa: Dr. Frank Chidawanyika, ICIPE
• Southern Africa: Dr. Sedera Norotiana Rasambo, CCARDESA
• West Africa: Dr. Fructueuse Ouidoh Agbodjogbe, CORAF/UCAD

Presentation of 10 RMRN Agroecology Studies/Methodologies

• Moderator: Prof. Majaliwa Mwanjololo, RUFORUM
• Dr. Irene Kadzere, FiBL
• Mr. Markus Arbenz, FiBL
• Dr. Pascal Tillie, EU-JRC
• Dr. Felix Rembold, EU-JRC
• Dr. Florence Nakayiwa, RUFORUM

Scaling Agricultural Innovations in Africa Through Integrated Innovation Ecosystems: Transforming Agrifood Systems in Nigeria and Across Africa

For four decades, the Sasakawa Africa Association (SAA) has worked across Africa to bridge the gap

between agricultural research and farmer adoption through practical, farmer-centered approaches. 

Gender Equality in Food, Land and Water Systems: Evidence and Solutions for Urgent Action

Despite their central contributions, women continue to face structural barriers in accessing

land, finance, markets, technologies, information, and decision-making opportunities.

Beyond Productivity: Building Resilient, Inclusive and Sustainable Food Systems for Africa’s Future

Moving beyond productivity means placing equal emphasis on innovation, entrepreneurship, research translation, strategic partnerships, responsible resource management and evidence-informed policymaking. These interconnected pillars are essential for building agrifood systems that are economically competitive, environmentally sustainable and socially inclusive.

4th Biennial Africa Climate Smart Agriculture Stakeholders Conference

The central objective of 2026 Biennial CSA Stakeholders Conferences was to establish the current state of CSA in Africa and the imperatives for agroecology transition, biodiversity conservation, and soil health on the continent.

Small Insects, Big Returns: Making the Business Case for Sustainable Feed in East Africa.

Despite growing interest, the large-scale production of insects as feed remains constrained by limited

access to finance and limited investment in scaling beyond pilot projects. As with most agricultural

value chains, access to credit for small and medium enterprises involved in insect farming is limited,

as financial institutions often perceive insect farming as high-risk due to limited understanding of this

new agricultural commodity value chain.

Catalyzing Country Investments for the Implementation of the Africa Fertilizer and Soil Health-Action Plan (AFSH-AP): Pathways to Bankable National Delivery

The central objective of this session was to develop practical, bankable pathways for African countries to invest in and implement SIA and AFSH-AP at scale.

• Designing Bankable Soil Health Investment Pathways in Africa Anthony Chapoto, ANAPRI
• Country Case Presentation “Practical Implementation Experiences & Financing Pathways”
• Panel Discussion “Financing models, institutional coordination, & scaling pathways”

Strengthening Agricultural Innovation Systems for Scaling Technologies in Africa

The Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT) Programme, established by the African Development Bank (AfDB) under the Feed Africa Strategy, was designed to accelerate the deployment and scaling of proven agricultural technologies capable of transforming productivity, strengthening resilience, improving food and nutrition security, generating employment and reducing poverty.

Harnessing AI-Enabled Digital Agricultural Extension and Advisory Systems to Accelerate Africa’s Agricultural Transformation

This event showcased AI-enabled digital extension initiatives, including the Nigeria Public Private

Partnership AI-enabled Digital Advisory Platform (NPPP AI-DAP) and the AFAAS

AIEnabled Digital User Platform, as scalable models for Africa. 

• Keynote address — “The Future of AI-Enabled Extension and Advisory Systems in Africa”: Dr Godwin Atswer – Sasakawa Association Africa 

Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) — How continental stakeholders coordinate on DPI solutions to reduce fragmentation and build toward scale and adoption. 

• National government — Ayodele Olawunmi, Director, Federal Dept of Agricultural Extension Services, Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Nigeria 
• Digital innovation & agritech — Tajudeen Yahaya (CEO, Extension Africa); Dev Afrique; Aisha Hadejia (Sahel Consulting Partner) 
• Farmer organisations — Representatives from Nigeria and SSA countries, NIFAAS
• AI ethics & digital governance — Chika Oke (DOA Law); Representative, NITDA, Bashira Hassan (Africa Practice)

Youth for Nutrition in Inclusive Science and Innovation from Soil to Plate — A Live Food Innovation Lab 

Advancing the Kampala CAADP Agenda through Evidence Based Policy Research: Bridging Science, Policy and Implementation for Scaled Agricultural Transformation 

The Pan-African Network for Economic Analysis of Policies (PANAP) members, through the

StEPPFoS Project have undertaken a range of policy studies which address priority areas aligned with the evolving CAADP agenda. These priority areas include sciencepolicy interface, climate resilience, agricultural research financing, regional trade, and inclusive agrifood systems. These studies are aimed at supporting countries to domesticate the Kampala CAADP Strategies to achieve the Agenda 2063. 

1. Topic 1: Using political economy tools to shape regional agricultural policy: A Co-lab Approach Dr. Koen Dekeyser, ECDPM
2. Topic 2: Data-Driven Policy Insights for CAADP: Evaluating AfCFTA Effects on AgriFood Systems and Food Security in Côte d’Ivoire Dr. Souleymane Diallo, CIRES
3. Topic 3: Building Sustainable and Synergistic Evidence Informed Policy Ecosystems in East and West Africa: Addressing Alignment Gaps Between the CAADP and Ghana’s National Agricultural and Food System Policies (CSIR-STEPRI) Dr. Gordon Akon Yamga, CSIR-STEPRI

Panel Discussion: “Translating Evidence into Policy Action for Food System Transformation in Africa”

• Mr. Patrick Kojo Ofori, Deputy Director in Charge of M&E(Former) & Currently National Project Coordinator of PROSPER
• Prof. Joseph Kieyah, Deputy Director, KIPPRA
• Dr. Dora Siliya, Fmr. Minister of Agriculture, Zambia
• Dr Beatrice Egulu, Policy Officer, AUC-DREA
• Dr. Emmanuel Njukwe, Director of Research & Innovation, CORAF
• Dr. Moustapha GUEYE, Director General, ISRA

Abuja Roundtable: High-Level Ministerial Dialogue on Sustainable Financing for Agriculture
Research, Development and Innovation (AR4D)

The establishment of Nigeria’s National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) presents an important

opportunity to demonstrate how domestic financing mechanisms can support long-term agricultural

transformation.

Strengthening Gender-Responsive Agricultural Policy through the AWARD–GRASP Fellowship

The Gender Responsive Agriculture Systems Policy (GRASP) Fellowship, an initiative of the African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD) and supported by theUnited States Agency for International Development (USAID), aims to accelerate the development and implementation of gender-responsive agricultural policies across Africa.

Farmer Centered Action Research and Innovation

The Side Event on Farmer-centered Action Research and Development for Sustainable Food Systems Transitions in Africa was jointly convened by: 1. The Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) 2. Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL) in partnership with the Knowledge Centre for Organic Agriculture and Agroecology in Africa (KCOA) project 3. AGRICORD 4. Network of Organic Agriculture Researchers in Africa (NOARA)

• Participatory research in organic and agroecology – insights from Sustain Sahel and SysCom (Mother-BabyTrials) Dr. Harun Cicek and Dr. Milka Kiboi - FiBL 
• Applied research for biofertilizer applications/agroecology Patrick Mwizero – CAPAD (Burundi)

Panel:

• Moderated by AGRICORD Katja Vuori
• Action research in and commercialising of agroforestry Kastory Timbula (TTGAU - Tanzania) - FORI Project 
• Farmer Field Schools as innovation platforms on sustainable agriculture and farmer managed seed systems Community Technology Development Organization (CTDO) and MASAP Project, Zimbabwe 
• The policy environment on sustainable agri-food systems in Africa – enablers and inhibitors Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources Policy Analysis Network (FANRPAN) 
• Action research and processing in agroecology – sunflower value chain Damian Sulumo/Frank Ademba - (MWIWAARUSHA-We Effect) – FORI Project 
• How to scale agroecology and organic messages through Multipliers – experiences from the KCOA project Khaoula Mokrani (KCOA-KHNA) (with insights from Francis Nsanga (KCOA-KHEA) and Georges TADJIOTIO NGOUGNI (KCOA-KHCA)
• Organic and agroecology data, statistics, and knowledge management – the African context Markus Arbenz – FiBL and KCOA; Jude Obi – Oyo University, Nigeria, and KCOAKHWA
• Implications of farmer-centred research approaches and outcomes to PAFO and AfrONet members – some reflections PAFO and AfrONet 

Soil Intelligence for Climate-Resilient Agrifood Systems in Africa: The Role of the African Union
Soil Observatory (AUSO)

FARA, together with African, European and International partners, is implementing the African Union Soil Observatory (AUSO) project under the Horizon Europe Mission Soil Programme fully funded by the European Commission. AUSO aims to establish a continental soil observatory and digital soil intelligence platform, including a soil health dashboard, to support harmonized soil information systems, strengthen evidence-based decision-making, improve soil health monitoring, and promote sustainable and climate-resilient agrifood systems across Africa.

Envisioning the future of Africa’s livestock and fish sectors for targeted policies and investments

Participants’ feedback on the future of the livestock and fish sectors in Africa will be collated as input into an Animal Source Foods-focused outlook report being prepared by the Policy Innovations science program of the CGIAR (https://www.cgiar.org/cgiar-research-portfolio-2025-2030/policy-innovations), in collaboration with the science program on Sustainable Animal and Aquatic Foods (https://www.cgiar.org/cgiar-research-portfolio-2025-2030/sustainable-animal-and-aquatic-foods). 

Empowering youth as catalysts for transformative agriculture through mentorship, digital innovation and cooperative governance

Regional Agricultural Innovation Systems in sub-Saharan Africa: Current Status, Gaps and Future Prospects 

Launch of the Youth in Agrifood Systems Performance Index (YAPI) 

Bringing Scientific Evidence to Policymakers to Support the Agroecological Transition of Food Systems in Africa: The Example of MoSAFS

The Modelling Pathways for a Sustainable and Agroecological Transition of Food Systems in Africa (MoSAFS) project supports the transition to agro-ecological, climate resilient food systems in Africa by providing data-rich models and a science-policy interface for decision-makers. The first phase (April 2025 – April 2026) identified existing foresight studies and highlighted the need for multi-scale analysis (farm level and country level), based on three case studies in Senegal, Kenya and Mozambique, which are at different stages of national agro-ecological vision development. 

• Kwaku Antwi FARA
• Astou Camara ISRA-BAME (Institut Sénégalais de Recherches Agricoles - Bureau d'analyses macro-économiques)
• Beatrice Egulu African Union
• Guy Faure CIRAD / DeSIRA LIFT+
• Lisa Fuchs Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT
• Alex Mutungi Biovision Africa
• Martin Oulu ISFAA (Intersectoral Forum on Agrobiodiversity and Agroecology)
• Pascal Tillie Joint Research Centre – European Commission
  

Investing in Extension and Advisory Services for Climate and Agroecological Transitions in Africa 

In understanding the Agroecological transition responsive extension approaches (ATREA), the ATREA project identified successful agroecological transition responsive extension approaches that are user centric, and enhance smallholder’s participation in the agri-food system transformation. The CANALLS initiative for example, leverages this to demonstrate an integrated approach to promoting agroecological transitions in the humid tropics of Central and Eastern Africa through multi-actor transdisciplinary Agroecology Living Labs that facilitate co-creation, participatory research, innovation testing,capacity strengthening for the uptake of the agroecological practices and policy engagement. Similarly, the GPSAEP initiative has generated valuable experiences in strengthening community-based advisory systems, supporting farmer-led agroecological innovation, enhancing inclusive extension approaches, and building local capacities for sustainable food systems transformation.

Institutional diagnostic for System Change - IGNITE Approach for Gender and Nutrition 

This masterclass provided participants with practical insights into the use of Tanager's Organizational Diagnostic Handbooks and Assessment Tools. Rather than focusing solely on theory, the session demonstrated how organizations can assess their institutional readiness, identify capacity gaps, and develop actionable improvement plans.

Africa Strategy Stakeholder Consultation on the Draft CGIAR Africa Strategy 

With the goal of shaping a strategy that reflects Africa's priorities, strengthens partnerships, and delivers greater impact, the consultation provided an opportunity to collectively refine a strategy that strengthens African institutions, accelerates science-based innovation, and supports sustainable agrifood systems transformation on the continent.

Dr. Simeon Ehui (IITA Director General and CGIAR Africa Continental Director), Dr. Aggrey Agumya (FARA Executive Director), Dr. Were Omamo (IFPRI Africa Director), and Dr. Namukolo Covic (Head, CGIAR Liaison Office for Africa).

Unlocking the Power of Vegetatively Propagated Crops in Africa: Empirical lessons from the PROSSIVA project 

Vegetatively propagated crops such as cassava, banana, and yam are critically important to Africa

because they serve as staple foods for hundreds of millions of people, contributing significantly to food

and nutrition security. However, these crops continue to suffer a setback in their seed systems, thus making it difficult for producers to get disease-free planting materials of improved varieties in a reliable manner. 

Strengthening Foresight Systems for Africa's Agrifood Transformation 

How Will Africa Feed 2.5 Billion People by 2050? A Strategic Foresight Study on Structural Barriers, Leadership Choices and Transformation Pathways for Africa's Agrifood Systems.

Advancing the Organic and Agroecology Research Agenda for Africa (OARAA 2036): Building
Partnerships for Resilient and Sustainable Agrifood Systems

The Network of Organic Agriculture Researchers in Africa (NOARA) initiated the development of the Organic and Agroecology Research Agenda for Africa (OARAA 2036) in 2019, with initial reflections having started from as far back as 2015.

he Network of Organic Agriculture Researchers in Africa (NOARA) is a pan-African, membershipbased network established by African organic agriculture researchers to coordinate and advance organic

and ecological agriculture research; it evolved from discussions among researchers in 2005, was

launched at the 2009 African Organic Conference in Kampala, strengthened through the 2012 African

Organic Conference in Lusaka, revived and reorganized by the African Organic Network (AfrONet) in

2019, and today operates through a continental governance structure comprising a Board of Trustees,

Governing Council, Continental Secretariat, and members drawn from researchers and other

stakeholders across Africa and beyond.

African Youth Position Statement on the Future of Africa’s Agrifood Systems 

2nd AUSO Annual Consortium Meeting/ General Assembly

The African Union Soil Observatory (AUSO) and its contribution to Africa’s soil health agenda.

12th Annual ANAPRI Stakeholders Conference

3 November 2025. Kigali, Rwanda. Leveraging the AFS for Jobs” to be presented during a pre-
conference to the 12th Annual ANAPRI Stakeholders Conference

4 – 6 November 2025. Kigali Rwanda. 12th ANAPRI Stakeholders Conference

This conference revolved around three overarching thematic areas that reflect Africa’s pressing priorities in food systems development.

1. Creating Resilient Food Systems: Jobs, Equity, and Inclusion. This thematic area focuses on building food systems that are capable of withstanding and adapting to both man-made and natural shocks, while generating decent jobs, promoting equity, and ensuring inclusive participation across all levels. 
2. Investment, Innovation, and Financing for Transformation. This thematic area explores how Africa can mobilize and direct strategic investments toward priority areas of food system transformation by aligning public, private, and development finance with coherent policy frameworks. It draws on ANAPRI’s work under the Policy and Priority Value Chains Initiative (PPVC II), which supports governments in identifying high- potential value chains and designing integrated policy responses grounded in evidence, modelling, and stakeholder consultation.
3. Sustainability, Trade, and Climate Action. Frameworks such as the Africa Fertilizer and Soil Health Action Plan (AFSH-AP), the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP 3.0), and the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) provide critical pathways for aligning national priorities with continental goals. Since the launch of the Farmer Know Your Soil campaign at the last ANAPRI conference in 2024, efforts have intensified to raise farmer awareness and adoption of sustainable soil management practices through localized soil data, digital advisory tools, and field-level engagement. 

Extract of the programme

Day 0 – Monday 3 November 2025 (Pre-Conference)

• A special side event on the topic “Leveraging the Agrifood System for Jobs”, organised jointly by ANAPRI and the World Bank. 
• Academic-paper sessions: selected papers will be presented by researchers on themes such as job creation in agrifood systems, off-farm employment, MSMEs, digital services, youth and women inclusion. 
• Networking and preparatory workshops that help set the stage for the main conference.

Day 1 – Tuesday 4 November 2025

1. Opening Ceremony & High-Level Plenary: Setting the global and African context of food systems transformation under the conference theme “Driving Africa’s Food Systems Transformation: Strategic Investments, Resilient Policies, and Global Partnerships”. 
2. Thematic Panel: Creating Resilient Food Systems – Jobs, Equity & Inclusion: Discussion on governance, youth and women’s roles, off-farm value chain jobs, territorial and community-led resilience. 
3. Interactive Café/Breakout Sessions: Smaller group sessions for peer exchange on job creation, inclusion strategies, and resilience building.

Day 2 – Wednesday 5 November 2025

1. Keynote and Panel: Investment, Innovation & Financing for Transformation: Focus on directing public, private and development finance into value-chains, digital tools, blended finance, institutional alignment. 
2. Workshop/Exhibition: Showcasing innovation tools (e.g., the PPVC modelling services of ANAPRI) and interactive sessions on building investment-ready food systems.
3. Parallel Tracks / Thematic Workshops: Possible breakout tracks on topics such as digital agriculture, value chain finance, MSME linkages, youth entrepreneurship.

Day 3 – Thursday 6 November 2025

1. Day’s Opening Keynote: Sustainability, Trade & Climate Action: Sessions aimed at climate-smart food systems, soil health, regional trade frameworks (e.g., AfCFTA), adaptation. 
2. eprnrwanda.org
3. Panel Discussion: Aligning National & Continental Frameworks: Topics may include implementing the Africa Fertilizer & Soil Health Action Plan, CAADP 3.0 alignment, cross-border coordination. 
4. eprnrwanda.org
5. Closing Plenary & Synthesis: Summary of insights, agreement on next-steps, commitments from stakeholders, launch of any joint statement or roadmap.

The Future of African Policy Research Institutes

7 May 2025. Navigating Uncertainty: The Future of African Policy Research Institutes in a Shifting Funding Landscape

This session unpacked the critical role of African policy research institutes can play in responding to the continents pressing challenges. It will also explore what options exist for the sustainability of African policy institutes in a changing landscape of disappearing international funding. Objectives of the Session i. To identify the role and influence that African think tanks and policy research institutes can play in Africa’s social and economic transformation; ii. To explore the extent and impact of US withdrawal of funding for research and program interventions in Africa; iii. To share the reactions of African policy research institutes and mitigating measures taken in this new landscape; iv. To lay out options for sustainability of African policy research institutes going into the future.

ANAPRI 2024 Conference

26 - 28 November 2024.  Dakar. ANAPRI 2024 Conference

• Download the 2024 Stakeholders Conference Booklet here
• Download the Concept Note and Programme at a Glance here

The conference theme, "From Policy to Practice: Strengthening Local Institutions for Sustainable Food Systems Transformation in Africa", underscored the need for prioritizing localization in the post-2025 development agenda. 

ANAPRI recognizes that policy implementation, particularly in the context of rural economic growth and transformation, primarily occurs at the local level. It is local institutions that drive the implementation of domestic and national policy frameworks and action plans. The focus of the Annual Stakeholder Conference was on how governments, the private sector, and international development partners can effectively support African-led and local research institutions, think tanks, and other non-state actors in implementing policies, programmes, projects, and scaling up new adaptive technologies that can enhance productivity, climate resilience, adaptation, and sustainable food system transformation.

Session 1 Driving Localization for Policy Action through Investment in Institutional Capacity Building: Lessons from the Innovation Lab for Policy Research, Capacity and Inluence (PRCI)

This session shared findings and insights from a survey of ANAPRI think tanks across sub-Saharan Africa. The purpose of the survey was to assess the institutional capacity of think tanks, including gaps, approaches, and partnerships that have enhanced the ability of policy research centers to effectively deliver on their mandate. 

Development Partners and Donors 

• Dr. Biniam Iyob, USAID 
• Dr. David Phiri, FAO 
• Mr. Alan Rennison, BMGF 

ANAPRI Centers 

• Dr. Astou Diao
• Dr. Adegbenga Adekoya
• Dr. Nalishebo Meebelo

Session 2 Promoting Adaptation and Resilience to Climate Change in Africa – Lessons Learnt from the Comprehensive Action for Climate Change Initiative (CACCI) in Africa.

This session highlighted lessons from the Comprehensive Action for Climate Change Initiative (CACCI).

CACCI Technical Implementers

• Richard Ayisi (ISSER)
• John Heermans (Abt Global)
• Mouhamed Ly Centre de Suivi Ecologique (CSE)
• Dhanani, Qahir – (Boston Consulting Group) 

Government Reps

• Harrick Mwewa (Ministry of Green Economy and Environment Zambia)
• Jonghikaya Witi (South Africa)

Session 3: High-Level Panel Discussion Domestication and Implementation of the Fertilizer and Soil Health Action Plan

This session discussed and share experiences on how to strengthen the role of African research and

training institutions in spearheading the implementation of policies, programmes, and initiatives to address soil health challenges, enhance the use of fertilizers and efficiency in fertilizer use.

• Prof. Richard Mkandawire (AAP)
• H.E. Josefa Leonel Correia Sacko, Commissioner, Africa Union, Department for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment
• Dr. Tinashe Kapuya : The role of pan-African and locally led institutions in the domestication and implementation of the Fertilizer and Soil Health Action Plan 
• Michael Sudarkasa (President, AFAP) Role of the private sector in partnering with Government and African Research Institutions in Strengthening Input Value Chains and Soil Health
• Dr. Shamie Zingore, (RD, APNI) Innovative approaches of implemented to improve nutrient management and soil health 
• Mr. Larry Umunna, (Acting Executive Director, CIFSH) Emerging partnerships, work programme and the role of the Coalition of Implementors for Fertilizers and Soil Health

Session 4 Status Quo of Africa’s Food Systems and the Post-2025 Agenda: What Happens Post-CAADP?

This session provided a stock-take of the Comprehensive African Agricultural Development Programme (CAADP), and the extent to which the continent has been successful in meeting goals such as: (a) halving poverty through agriculture by 2025, (b) ending hunger by 2025, and (c) eliminating child malnutrition.

• H.E. Josefa Leonel Correia Sacko, Commissioner, Africa Union, Department for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment
• Dr. Ousmane Badiane, AKADEMIYA2063 - Driving Africa's Agricultural Future: Lessons from CAADP and the Road Beyond 2025

Session 5 Finding Solutions for Dwindling Funding Towards Policy Research. How Can think tanks bridge the divide between Policy and Action?

This session discussed how the funding space has changed, and whether the lack of resources available to think tanks and policy research is due to misaligned objectives with donors and development partners, or a lack of ability to adapt to these new demands.

Session 6 Food Sovereignty in Africa: Where is the Balance, and how do Governments Walk the line between Regional Integration under the AfCFTA and attaining Food Self -Sufficiency?

Governments are implementing a range of policies to stabilize prices, strengthen the resilience of food systems, and promote sustainable resource management. However, food sufficiency policies and programmes are generally being implemented at the expense of regional integration, particularly the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Session 7 Prioritizing Policies and Investments to Drive Inclusive Agricultural Transformation: Key Findings from Zambia, Ghana, Malawi, Tanzania, and Kenya.

Policy Prioritization through Value Chain Analysis (PPVC) is an approach to identifying policies, investments, and value chains that can drive inclusive transformation relatively more cost-effectively. The framework was piloted in Tanzania and then scaled out to several other countries like Kenya, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Malawi, Ghana, and Zambia.

Government Reps

• Mr David Ombalo Otieno, Government Rep Kenya 
• Mr. Simon Omollo John, Government Rep Tanzania
• Dr. Dirk Troskie, - Western Cape Government, South Africa 

Technical Partners

• Dr. Mmtlaou kalaba - BFAP
• Dr. Henry Kankwamba - IFPRI

Session 8 The 2024 OECD-FAO Agricultural Outlook and FAO’s Support to the AUC in Promoting Agribusiness Development towards Enhancing Implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) 

This session explored the findings of the 2024 OECD-FAO Agricultural Outlook, shedding light on global and regional agricultural trends and their implications for Africa’s trade, food security, and investment landscape.

Government Representatives

• Mr. David Ombalo Otieno, Ministry of Agriculture, Kenya 
• Ms.Gamuchirai M Kapembeza, Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries and Rural Development 

Private Sector 

• Mr Yotam Mkandawire, GTAZ, Zambia

Session 9 Unlocking the Power of Public-Private Partnerships: Strategies for Effective Private Sector Engagement in Policy Implementation

This session provided some key perspectives on how think tanks, development partners, and governments can effectively engage the private sector as a means of grounding policy through evidence. The session explores the role of the private sector in policy implementation, and how to foster public-private partnerships that can drive deeper cooperation.

• Dr. Maria Wanzala, AFAP - private sector’s role in policy implementation, focusing on agriculture and value chain development.

Government policies fostering private sector engagement, impact of these measures

• Dr. Dirk Troskie, Western Cape Government, South Africa
• Ms. Alisa Shidhika, Namibia
• Simon Omollo John, Government of Tanzania

Lessons from private sector alignment with policy objectives; two audience questions

• Mr. Bagoré Bathily – Senega
• Mr. Aimable Twagirayezu Pan African Farmer Organization, Rwanda
• Dr. Cheickh Sadibou Fall, IFDC
• Bruce Kasitu, IsDA

 Role of think tanks in bridging government and private sector engagement

• Prof- Peter Quartey (ISSER)
• Astou Diao (ISRABAME)

Bridging gaps in fertilizer and soil health policies for a world in crisis

28 September 2023. Bridging gaps in fertilizer and soil health policies for a world in crisis

The Africa Network of Agricultural Policy Research Institutes (ANAPRI) covered a crucial webinar in partnership with the Alliance for Commodity Trade in Eastern and Southern Africa (ACTESA), a specialized agency operating under the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), and the Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Food Security Policy Research, Capacity, and Influence (PRCI).

The recording were put online 14/12/2023

The webinar explored the impact of global crises, such as the Russia-Ukraine war, on the fertilizer industry in Africa. This exploration is essential for understanding the challenges facing the continent’s agricultural sector. It examined the opportunities and obstacles in enhancing agricultural productivity in Africa, identifying key areas for intervention to unlock its agricultural potential. Additionally, the event explored a spectrum of solutions, spanning the immediate, medium-term, and long-term, to address food systems and transformation in Africa. These proposed solutions are intended to serve as guiding principles for policymakers and stakeholders in their endeavors to foster sustainable agricultural development in Africa.

 

ReNAPRI Stakeholder Conference

14-16 November 2023. Victoria Falls Zimbabwe 10th Annual ReNAPRI Stakeholder Conference

• Download the ReNAPRI Conference Booklet here with the detailed agenda and bio of the speakers
• Download the Concept Note & Program at a Glance here

The theme for this year’s conference perceives of the continent as being, “In Motion, fortifying Africa’s food system through increased productivity, climate resilience and adaptation”.

The key objectives of the 10th Annual ReNAPRI Stakeholders’ Conference were as follows: 

1. Sparke policy conversations around key thematic areas that the network has explored in recent times (fertilizer and soil health; value chain analysis for policy prioritisation; climate change; effects of shocks on commodities (food, fuels and fertilizer availability and prices) 
2. Receive feedback/validation from stakeholders, including policy makers, vis a vis the various topics that will be presented during the conference 
3. Discuss and appreciate the relevance of local think tanks and the kind of support required to sustain them, as we celebrate the 10 editions of the ReNAPRI Annual Stakeholder Conferences. 

14/11 Session 1 Beyond the Africa Fertilizer and Soil Health (AFSH) Summit: Support towards operationalization of the AFSH Action Plan

The African Union (AU) has made a bold decision to address the widespread soil health problem in Africa through two iniaves; the Africa Ferlizer and Soil Health (AFSH) Action Plan, and the Soil Initiave for Africa (SIA). 

• Moderator: Dr. Antony Chapoto, Technical Chair, ReNAPRI 
• Key Presenter Dr. John Olwande, Research Fellow, Tegemeo Institute/ReNAPRI 
• Key Presenter Dr. Shamie Zingore, Director of Research and Development, African Plant Nutrition Institute (APNI). 
• Constance Munyenyembe, Country Director for Malawi, Zambia and Tanzania, IFDC 
• William Chadza, Executive Director, MwAPATA 
• Marie-Claire Kalihangabo, Coordinator, Africa Fertilizer Financing.Mechanism (AFFM) 
• Dr. Maria Wanzala, Policy Services Director, AFAP 
• Dr. Liesl Wiese-Rozanov, International Consultant 
• Vandi Gamba, Agricultural Officer, Farm Input Support Services Department, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Nigeria

14/11 Session 2 Prioritization of Agricultural Policies and Investments through Value Chain Analysis

This session provided a brief overview of the Prioritisation through Value Chain Analysis (PPVC) approach and the ongoing capacity development programme within ReNAPRI, which was followed by three in-country case studies where the PPVC approach has been implemented and which can demonstrate positive policy influence that is rigorously and demonstrably targeted towards Inclusive Agricultural Transformation (IAT) outcomes.

• Moderator: Dr. Thina Moyo, Senior Lecturer, Namibia University of Science and Technology 
• Key Presenters Prof. Ferdi Meyer, Director of the Bureau for Food and Agricultural Policy (BFAP) 
• Key Presenters Dr. Zena Theopist Mpenda, ReNAPRI Research Director (SUA, Tanzania)
• Dr. Timothy Njagi Njeru, Research Fellow, Tegemeo Institute of Agricultural Policy and Development Joyce Minofu, Research Analyst, MwAPATA Institute 
• Elifadhili Ezekiel, Head of Operation of QSTEK Farming Ltd 
• Dr. James Gakuo Mwangi, Managing Director, First Choice Mineral Feeds 
• Dr. Rodwell Mzonde, Director, Agricultural Planning Services, Malawi's Ministry of Agriculture 
• Dr. Mogale Sebopetsa, Head, Agriculture Department Western Cape Government, South Africa

Below recording only captures the Q&A of the panel

14/11 High Level Panel Discussion Strengthening local expertise to deliver high-quality research for policymaking and influence: ‘Localization’.

This High-Level Panel Discussion interrogated the perceptions of eminent persons/experts/leaders from Africa and beyond and enlightened the audience on what a continentally connected, thriving capacity-building ecosystem for modern policy making and advocacy should reflect. 

• Prof. Thomas Jayne, Emeritus Professor, Michigan State University, US
• Michael Surdakasa, Africa Fertilizer Agribusiness Partnership (AFAP) 
• Dr. Aggrey Agumya, Executive Director, FARA 
• Dr. Lilian Kirimi, ReNAPRI Research Director (Tegemeo) 
• Alan Rennison, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) 
• Dr. Emily Weeks, USAID Washington 
• Dr Michele Mbo'o-Tchouawou, Deputy Director Programs, African Women in Agricultural Research and Development AWARD, Kenya
• Prof. Peter Quartey, ReNAPRI Finance Chairperson
• Dr Dirk Troskie Director: Business Planning and Strategy in the Western Cape Department of Agriculture (WCDoA) in South Africa. Southern African representative on the Executive Committee of the African Association of Agricultural Economists (AAAE) as well as being invited by the African Union to participate in the process to develop a Geographical Indication (GI) Strategy for Africa. The WCDoA is considered as one of the leading evaluating Departments in the country and on the African Continent.

14/11 Sustainable Food Systems in Africa I: Role of Zimbabwe’s Agriculture in attaining Vision 2030

15/11 SEED TRADE IN EASTERN AND SOUTHERN AFRICA

The objective of the session was to bring clarity and focus to the policy and regulatory issues that are negatively affecting the cross-border trade of seed, with a view to identifying recommendations and tools that can help facilitate trade and deepen the integration of the regional seed market. 

• Moderator: Dr. Tinashe Kapuya, ReNAPRI Research Director 
• Key Presenter Dr. John Mukuka, CEO, ACTESA, COMESA 
• Key Presenter Dr. Takemore Chagomoka, Regional Manager, Seed Co West & Central Africa 
• Key Presenter Dr. Learnmore Mwadzingeni, Soybean Breeder, Seed Co Group 
• Dr. Emmanuel Mwakiwa, ReNAPRI Research Director, University of Zimbabwe 
• Dr. Jackson Langat, Measurement, Learning and Evaluation Advisor 
• Dr. Shephard Siziba, Lecturer, University of Zimbabwe

15/11 Session 3 Implementation of NDCs and NAPs in Africa under the Paris Agreement on Climate Change: Lessons Learnt from four (4) Pilot Countries

The African Union Commission's Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy and Sustainable Environment (AUC-DARBE) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) jointly officially launched the Comprehensive Africa Climate Change Initiative (CACCI) on 8th November 2021, during the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference of Pares (COP26) held in Glasgow, United Kingdom. 

CACCI is focused on providing support to selected African Union (AU) member States in their efforts to respond to the Paris Agreement on Climate Change and, is designed to contribute to the implementation of the African Climate Change Strategy, while complementing the African Union's Green Recovery Plan. 

Working in the 4 pilot countries, ReNAPRI and AKADEMIYA2063, have been collaborating with local partners to build capacities needed for data gathering and analyses, together with technical and inter-ministerial coordination around two broad topics: i. to facilitate implementation of and reporting against NDCs; and ii. to develop and implement NAPs to adapt to climate change in ways that promote resilience, food security, and inclusive growth.

• Moderator: Tracey Davids, Executive Director, Bureau for Food and Agricultural Policy (BFAP)
• Speaker Dr. Emily Weeks, Senior Policy Advisor, Bureau for Food Security - USAID 
• Speaker Prof. David Tschirley, MSU & PRCI 
• Speaker Harsen Nyambe, AU (Director for Sustainable Environment and Blue Economy) 
• Key Presenters Dr. Antony Chapoto, Research Director, Indaba Agricultural Policy Research Institute (IAPRI) 
• Octave Nshimiyimana, Director General, MINAGRI Rwanda 
• Prospera Anku Okrah, Deputy Director, Public Extension Services, Ministry of Food and Agriculture Agricultural Extension Services, Ghana 
• Hedges Tembo, Chief Green Economy Officer, Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, Zambia 
• Dr. Suresh Babu, Senior Research Fellow, IFPRI 
• Justin EDAH, Director of Planning, Administration and Finance, Benin 
• Thabani Mathews Siziba, Economist, Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Zimbabwe

15/11 Session 4 Effects of global shocks on food, fuels, and fertilizer (prices and availability) on food systems in Africa: a case of the conflict in Ukraine

This session discussed the effects of the global shocks, with a bias towards the recent Russia-Ukrainian War, on the African agri-food system and in turn suggest practical solutions that could be used to increase the resilience of the agri-food systems to exogenous shocks.

• Moderator: Candice Mwakalyelye, Journalist, Zimbabwe 
• Key Presenters Dr. Emmanuel Mwakiwa, ReNAPRI Research Director, University of Zimbabwe 
• Key Presenters  Prof. Ayala Wineman, Assistant Professor Michigan State University (MSU) 
• Boubacar Dramé, Technical Advisor, Ministry of Agriculture, Senegal. He has participated in the last 10 years in the major projects implemented by various international organizations such as UNIDO or COLEACP EDES EU in favour of sanitary and phytosanitary inspection bodies in the region
• Kristy Cook, Senior Policy Advisor, USAID 
• Dr. Clemens Breisinger, Senior Research Fellow, IFPRI 
• Panduleni Elago, African Union Commission. She currently serves as a Senior CAADP Advisor in Agriculture Development activities at the African Union Commission, within the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARBE), located in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. In this capacity, she is responsible for providing technical support to implement the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) Business Plan for 2022-2025. She also offers support to the Regional Economic Communities (RECs), Member States, and key stakeholder partners in the planning, programming, and implementation of initiatives that promote the advancement of the CAADP Malabo agenda, strategic multi-stakeholder engagement,
• Dr. Takemore Chagomoka, Regional Manager, Seed Co West & Central Africa 
• Rosemary Chikarakara, CEO, Consumer Council of Zimbabwe 

16/11 Session 5 The 2023 OECD-FAO Agricultural Outlook and FAO’s support to the AUC in promoting agribusiness development towards enhancing implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)

This side event convened by FAO will have two segments. The first segment will examine the 2023 OECD-FAO Agricultural Outlook and a 2022 special scenario analysis on achieving Zero Hunger sustainably. The second segment will examine FAO's support to the AUC in facilitating enhance implementation of the AfCFTA agreement towards the development of priority agricultural value chains and in particular the partnership with the AUDA-NEPAD in developing an Agribusiness Flagship Programme for Southern Africa.