Monday, November 2, 2026

AgrEcoNUS+ National Launches in Ghana and Zimbabwe: Advancing Forgotten Foods and Agroecological Transformation in Africa

The national launches of AgrEcoNUS+ in Zimbabwe and Ghana marked important milestones in promoting neglected and underutilized crop species (NUS), also known as Forgotten Foods, as drivers of agroecological transition, food and nutrition security, biodiversity conservation and inclusive rural development.

The four-year programme, Enhancing Value Chains and Markets of Neglected and Underutilized Crop Species to Contribute to Agroecological Transition in Africa, is funded by the European Union under DeSIRA+ and implemented through a consortium led by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS), the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), SWISSAID and CIHEAM Bari.

Operating in nine African countries — Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, Guinea, Mauritania, Niger, Senegal, Tanzania and Zimbabwe — AgrEcoNUS+ builds on the achievements of earlier initiatives such as SUSTLIVES and CROPS4HD.

The international launch took place online on 1 October 2026, with more than 110 participants from over 14 countries.

Zimbabwe: Strengthening agroecology and farmer-managed seed systems

22 September 2026 — Harare, Zimbabwe

The national launch in Zimbabwe brought together government representatives, development partners,
researchers and civil society organizations to promote the potential of traditional African crops for sustainable agricultural development.

Among the speakers were:

H.E. Giuseppe Giacalone, Ambassador of Italy to Zimbabwe, who emphasized the importance of crops such as millet, sorghum, Bambara groundnut, African pea and amaranth for nutrition, biodiversity and climate resilience.
Francesco Rispoli, IFAD Country Director for Zimbabwe and Eswatini, whose remarks were delivered by Joylyn Ndoro, IFAD Country Liaison Officer for Zimbabwe. He highlighted the complementarity between AgrEcoNUS+ and IFAD's Smallholder Agriculture Cluster Project.

Representatives of the Government of Zimbabwe, the European Union, SWISSAID and the Embassy of Switzerland also participated.

The Zimbabwe component focuses on Hwange, Binga and Lupane, where AgrEcoNUS+ will promote agroecological farming practices, locally adapted crops, farmer-managed seed systems and inclusive agricultural value chains.

Implementation involves the Community Technology Development Organisation (CTDO), Fambidzanai Permaculture Centre, Bio-Innovation Zimbabwe and ICRISAT.

An important objective is the establishment of 15 agroecology Village Business Units, benefiting approximately 4,500 farming households.

The programme will complement existing rural development investments by connecting agroecological innovation with farmer organizations, local infrastructure and market opportunities.

Ghana: Launch at the University of Ghana, Legon

13 October 2026 — Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER), University of Ghana, Legon, Accra

The University of Ghana hosted the national launch of AgrEcoNUS+ at ISSER, bringing together senior government officials, European development partners, research institutions and regional agricultural organizations.

The launch provided a platform to discuss how neglected and underutilized crops can contribute to agroecological transition, agricultural biodiversity, food security and inclusive economic development in West Africa.

Opening session and institutional representatives

The event was attended by:

Hon. Justice Quarm, Head of Protocol, Ministry of Food and Agriculture, Ghana.
H.E. Laura Ranalli, Ambassador of Italy to Ghana and Togo.
Marco Riccardo Rusconi, Director of the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS).
Gisela Spreitzhofer, Acting Head of Cooperation, European Union Delegation to Ghana.
Emanuela Forcella, Head of the AICS Ouagadougou Office, responsible for Ghana.

In his institutional remarks, Marco Riccardo Rusconi highlighted the continuity between AgrEcoNUS+ and previous investments in agricultural biodiversity, agroecology and neglected and underutilized crops.

He emphasized the experience gained through the SUSTLIVES programme, implemented under the European Union's DeSIRA initiative, and the importance of long-standing partnerships with African universities and research institutions.

Rusconi also thanked the European Union for entrusting AICS with the programme's leadership, emphasizing the importance of EU delegated cooperation in translating common development priorities into practical action.

High-Level Round Table on Neglected and Underutilized Species in West Africa

A major component of the launch was a high-level round table moderated by Hamid El Bilali
(CIHEAM Bari).

The panel brought together representatives of the University of Ghana, University Joseph Ki-Zerbo (Burkina Faso), University Abdou Moumouni (Niger) and the West and Central African Council for Agricultural Research and Development (CORAF).

Discussions focused on the role of neglected and underutilized species in agroecological transition, food and nutrition security, biodiversity conservation and inclusive economic development.

The exchange highlighted the importance of regional research collaboration, strengthening national research capacities and connecting scientific knowledge with the needs of farmers and agrifood enterprises.

Dr. Wole Fatunbi, representing the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA), presented the potential of opportunity crops to build more diverse, resilient and sustainable African food systems. His contribution situated neglected and underutilized species within the broader African agricultural research and innovation agenda, emphasizing their relevance for food-system diversification and climate adaptation.
Filippo Acasto, AICS Programme Manager, presented the regional scope, strategic objectives and expected results of AgrEcoNUS+. The presentation outlined how the programme seeks to strengthen agricultural research, farmer-managed seed systems, agroecological practices and inclusive markets while promoting cooperation among African and European partners.
Hamid El Bilali (CIHEAM Bari) and Prof. Naalamle Amissah (University of Ghana) presented the Ghana component of the programme. Their presentation addressed the national context, priority neglected and underutilized crop value chains, intervention areas and planned activities. The Ghana component offers opportunities to strengthen partnerships between universities, research organizations, farmer groups, agricultural enterprises and policymakers.

Further information

Connecting Indigenous Foods with Tourism and New Markets

29–30 October 2026 | Western Cape, South Africa.

Indigenous and underutilised crops provided the focus for The WILD Exchange 2026, hosted at Vergenoegd Löw Wine Estate in South Africa’s Western Cape. Organised by AgriLuxe Marketing, the forum connected agriculture with tourism, hospitality, culinary innovation, investment and trade to explore new commercial opportunities for indigenous foods. WILD stands for Wholesome, Indigenous, Local and Diverse—four qualities underpinning the initiative’s approach to food, enterprise and cultural heritage.

The Exchange formed the dialogue and partnership component of the wider WILD Initiative, an Africa–Caribbean platform linking indigenous food systems with contemporary products and experiences. Its focus offered a practical perspective on a persistent challenge: how to translate the value of neglected crops into demand, investment and opportunities for local enterprises.

The programme moved through three stages.

The opening session examined indigenous crops as cultural and economic assets, with a particular focus on tourism, hospitality and destination branding.
A second session considered the business case through hospitality examples, product innovation and small-enterprise experiences, followed by perspectives from investors and development institutions.
The afternoon turned to testing potential projects and their readiness for markets.

The second day’s programme combined a site visit, executive networking and a WILD Feast gala dinner, linking the business dialogue with practical food experiences.

FANRPAN’s perspective on indigenous foods and sustainable tourism

The Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources Policy Analysis Network (FANRPAN) brings a relevant
policy and research perspective to this agenda. Its collaboration with AgriLuxe predates the Exchange. In 2025, the two organisations co-hosted a dialogue with the University of Johannesburg and the University of the West Indies on indigenous and neglected crops as a pathway to sustainable tourism and growth in Africa and the Caribbean.

That dialogue attracted more than 160 participants. FANRPAN’s CEO and Head of Mission, Dr Tshilidzi Madzivhandila, presented the case for placing indigenous crops at the centre of food-system transformation, connecting their nutritional importance with cultural identity, environmental sustainability and economic development. This documented contribution provides useful background to FANRPAN’s engagement with the WILD agenda; the specific content of its 2026 Exchange presentation remains to be confirmed.

Creating demand for Forgotten Foods

The conceptual approach behind WILD was outlined in “Growing Backwards,” a presentation by AgriLuxe founder Jeanette M. Sutherland, shared on the event website. It proposed starting with consumer interests and experiences, then working backwards towards products, crops and production systems. Examples included Bambara groundnut, sorghum, millet, cowpea, amadumbe and marula.

The presentation also raised an essential question about inclusion: how can farmers and communities share fairly in the value created around their food heritage? For initiatives promoting Forgotten Foods, this makes the WILD approach particularly relevant. Research, processing, gastronomy and tourism can help create demand, but lasting benefits depend on connecting those opportunities with producers and local enterprises.

Event information and programme

Friday, October 30, 2026

Webinars and events November 2026

17 – 20 November 2026. 1st Eastern Africa Indigenous Seed Conference - EA-ISC 2026

Building farmer managed seed system community of practice (COP) For a Resilient EASTERN AFRICA Region.
Catholic university of Eastern Africa, Nairobi, Kenya25 November 2026. Bari, Italy. AU-EU Innovation fair - focus on food and nutrition security and sustainable agriculture
The event will run as a full-day hybrid programme (9:00 am – 7:00 pm), combining:
High-level policy sessions;
Two-minute innovation pitches from selected R&I projects and start-ups;
An exhibition and matchmaking space featuring innovative solutions, investors, business support organisations and research initiatives;
Awards for outstanding start-ups and SMEs;
Other networking opportunities.

25-27 November 2026. Santiago, Chile. XI CONGRESSO LATINOAMERICANO DE AGROECOLOGIA

25-27 November 2026. Gabarone. 2nd Annual International SARUA Conference

30 November - 4 December 2026 RUFORUM’s 22nd AGM

To be held in Zambia, hosted by the Government of Zambia and RUFORUM member universities in Zambia.
This AGM edition offers Zambia, the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC), the rest of Africa, and partners an opportunity to discuss current development opportunities and challenges, and to co-create roadmaps for delivering solutions

30 November - 4 December 2026. African Nutrition Conference in Namibia.

Narayanan, R., Estoppey, A., Benitez, M., Kaufmann, A., Khallouqi, A. ; Santos, N. 2026. Impact funds in agrifood systems – Lessons from investments in low- and middle-income countries. Directions in Investment, No. 18. Rome, FAO.

Lessons from investments in low- and middle-income countries.
Impact funds play a growing role in financing agrifood systems in low- and middle-income countries. Yet, reliable data on their financial return, primary investors, financial structures, investment strategies, priority geographies and value chains remain limited.

This study addresses this knowledge gap through a comparative, data-driven analysis of 81 food and agriculture impact funds targeting in priority agrifood systems in low- and middle-income countries. Better knowledge of the impact fund landscape is key to attract more capital toward agrifood systems and bridge the financing gap needed to transform agrifood systems.

This report is part of the Directions in Investment series under the FAO Investment Centres Innovation and Knowledge for Investment programme.

Africa Day for Food and Nutrition Security 2026: Harnessing Sustainable Water for Resilient Agrifood Systems and Better Nutrition

29–30 October 2026 | Nairobi, Kenya

The 17th Africa Day for Food and Nutrition Security (ADFNS) was commemorated on 29–30 October 2026 at the Safari Park Hotel in Nairobi, Kenya, under the theme “Harnessing Sustainable Water for Resilient Agrifood Systems, Nutrition Security and Inclusive Prosperity in Africa.” Convened by the African Union Commission in collaboration with the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) and the Government of Kenya, the event brought together governments, regional organisations, development partners, researchers, civil society, private-sector representatives and young agripreneurs to strengthen Africa's response to hunger, malnutrition and climate-related challenges.

The commemoration took place at a pivotal moment, marking the first year of implementation of the Kampala Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) Strategy and Action Plan 2026–2035. It also aligned with the African Union's 2026 focus on sustainable water availability and safe sanitation.

From food production to nutrition security

The discussions highlighted the need to move beyond increasing agricultural production towards ensuring access to affordable, safe, nutritious and diverse diets. Water security emerged as a critical link connecting agricultural productivity, food safety, public health, climate resilience and economic opportunities.

Opening the technical discussions on 29 October, Kenya's Principal Secretary for Agriculture, Dr Paul Ronoh, called for concrete commitments and implementation rather than repeated policy declarations. He stressed the importance of improved water management, stronger partnerships, youth participation and increased investment in sustainable food systems.

George Esunge Fominyen, World Food Programme Representative to the African Union and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, emphasised the interdependence of water, food security and nutrition. He highlighted the potential of school feeding programmes to connect local agricultural production with improved nutrition and reliable markets for smallholder farmers.

Representatives of the World Health Organization, FAO, CGIAR, the Scaling Up Nutrition Civil Society Alliance, the private sector and African farmers' organisations also contributed perspectives on strengthening food systems and translating continental strategies into national action.

Four thematic priorities

The technical programme on 29 October addressed four interconnected priorities:

Climate-resilient water management for sustainable agrifood systems, including water harvesting, efficient irrigation, adaptation to drought and sustainable natural-resource management.
Safe water, soil health, food safety and healthy diets, highlighting the connections between agricultural practices, environmental health, nutrition and food quality.
Youth, innovation and digital solutions, exploring how young agripreneurs, researchers and technology developers can contribute to sustainable food systems transformation.
Financing, partnerships and governance, examining investment mechanisms, institutional cooperation and accountability for implementing the Kampala CAADP commitments.

The programme also featured technical side events, policy exchanges and an Africa Youth Food Expo, organised around the theme “Recipes for Better Nutrition.” The Expo provided an opportunity to highlight youth entrepreneurship, culinary innovation and the nutritional value of African foods.

Beyond the farm: Addressing drought, heat and food supply chain disruptions

An important side event on 29 October, organised by the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, examined how drought, extreme heat and water shortages affect food systems beyond agricultural production, including processing, transport, markets, food safety and consumer access.

The session, “Beyond the Farm: Drought, Heat and Food Supply Chain Disruption,” was moderated by Dr Henri Rueff, Director of Climate Action at the Alliance. Opening contributions were provided by Dr Wanjiru Kamau-Rutenberg, Managing Director for Africa at the Alliance, and Dr James Wanjohi, Agriculture Secretary in Kenya's Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development.

The technical presentations brought together:

Farayi Zimudzi, FAO Representative in Kenya, on anticipatory action and food-system resilience.
Dr Christine Chege, Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, on research evidence and markets for healthy diets.
Dr Eileen Bogweh Nchanji, Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, on gender equality and social inclusion.
Susan Moywaywa, Kenya's State Department for Forestry, on forests, water catchments and food systems.
Melanie Thurber, US Embassy in Nairobi, on drought and food-system management.
Ruth Okowa, Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), on food safety and nutritious food markets.
Mehrdad Ehsani, Rockefeller Foundation, and Charles Opiyo, Novo Nordisk Foundation, on financing and partnerships.

The session's agenda concluded with discussions on priorities for strengthening food-system resilience and translating research evidence into practical interventions under national CAADP implementation plans.

Indigenous foods and neglected and underutilized species: An opportunity for Africa

The 2026 commemoration also highlighted the importance of diversifying African diets and strengthening local food systems. This creates an important opportunity to advance the conservation, production, processing and commercialisation of neglected and underutilized species (NUS), often referred to as Forgotten Foods.

Traditional cereals such as sorghum and millet, indigenous vegetables, African legumes, roots and tubers, and locally adapted fruits can contribute to dietary diversity, agricultural biodiversity and climate resilience. Many of these crops are well adapted to local agroecological conditions but remain insufficiently integrated into research agendas, agricultural investment programmes and formal markets.

Their wider adoption requires more than increased production. It depends on improved seed systems, participatory research, food processing, consumer awareness, enterprise development and stronger connections between producers and markets.

The Africa Youth Food Expo offered a particularly relevant platform for promoting innovative food products, local culinary traditions and entrepreneurship based on African agricultural biodiversity.

Relevance to GFAiR's Collective Actions

The priorities discussed during Africa Day for Food and Nutrition Security are closely aligned with several Global Forum on Agricultural Research and Innovation (GFAiR) Collective Actions.

The Collective Action on Forgotten Foods seeks to strengthen the recognition and use of NUS through research partnerships, innovation, value-chain development and market opportunities. Its activities connecting African producers, researchers, entrepreneurs and diaspora food markets are particularly relevant to the conference's emphasis on nutritious diets, inclusive economic development and African food heritage.

The Collective Action on Agroecology and Biopesticides contributes to sustainable production systems by promoting agroecological practices, biological crop protection and innovations that can reduce environmental pressures while strengthening farmers' resilience.

The Collective Action on Inclusive Digital Agriculture explores how digital advisory tools, including Access Agriculture's Ask Agi, can make practical agricultural knowledge more accessible to farmers, extension workers and rural entrepreneurs.

The Global NARS Consortium, facilitated through GFAiR, also provides an opportunity to strengthen the participation of national agricultural research systems in implementing the Kampala CAADP Strategy, connecting research institutions with policymakers, farmers' organisations, universities and private-sector partners.

From continental commitments to local implementation

The second day of the commemoration, 30 October, included a ministerial and permanent secretary dialogue on “Water, Sanitation and Hygiene as Foundations for Nutrition Security and Agrifood Systems Transformation,” alongside a youth dialogue bringing together chefs, innovators and agripreneurs.

The programme envisaged the presentation of a Nairobi Communiqué and Call to Action on Water, Nutrition and Food Systems Transformation, aimed at strengthening political commitment, investment and accountability.

The central message emerging from the discussions was that Africa's food and nutrition security challenges cannot be addressed through agricultural production alone. Sustainable water management, nutritious local foods, inclusive markets, scientific innovation, youth entrepreneurship and coordinated public policies must form part of an integrated transformation of agrifood systems.

For agricultural research and innovation partnerships, the priority is to translate these commitments into locally adapted solutions that deliver measurable benefits for farmers, consumers and rural communities.

Further information

African Union: 17th Commemoration of Africa Day for Food and Nutrition Security — https://au.int/en/newsevents/20261029/17th-commemoration-africa-day-food-and-nutrition-security-adfns
AUDA-NEPAD: Official event website — https://events.auda-nepad.org/adfns
AUDA-NEPAD: Conference programme — https://events.auda-nepad.org/adfns/program
Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT: Participation and side-event programme — https://alliancebioversityciat.org/events/17th-africa-day-food-nutrition-security-adfns-2026

Thursday, October 29, 2026

Russia–Africa Summit 2026: Agricultural Technologies, Food Security and Research Cooperation

28–29 October 2026 | Moscow, Russian Federation

The Third Russia–Africa Summit and accompanying Economic and Humanitarian Forum, brought together African and Russian political leaders, research institutions, businesses and development stakeholders to strengthen cooperation in trade, investment, technology and food security. Hosted at Gostiny Dvor, the Forum featured more than 40 thematic sessions and panel discussions, with agriculture, innovation and scientific cooperation among the key priorities.

Agricultural discussions focused on moving beyond trade in food commodities and fertilisers towards technology transfer, local agricultural production, research partnerships and joint investment. These themes were particularly relevant to African efforts to improve agricultural productivity, strengthen food sovereignty and develop more resilient agrifood systems.

Agricultural sessions and speakers

1. Russia–Africa Agro-Industrial Alliance: Meeting the Challenges Together — 28 October

This session examined opportunities to strengthen Russian–African agricultural cooperation through fertiliser supplies, agricultural machinery, infrastructure development, investment and technology transfer.

Discussions addressed the establishment of agricultural machinery assembly facilities and logistics hubs in Africa, alongside opportunities for scientific research and the application of modern agricultural technologies.

Among the announced speakers were Andrey Guryev, President of the Russian Association of Fertilizer Producers; Alla Elizarova, Director of the Rosspetsmash Association; and Vyacheslav Lukomets, Rector of the Russian State Agrarian University–Timiryazev Moscow Agricultural Academy.

The session highlighted the importance of developing agricultural production capacity in African countries rather than relying exclusively on imports of agricultural commodities and inputs.

2. From Food Products to Agricultural Technologies — 29 October

This session explored how technological cooperation could improve agricultural productivity, strengthen food security and create opportunities for Russian–African agribusiness partnerships. Particular attention was given to soil fertility, agricultural inputs, production technologies and investment in agricultural innovation.

Moderator: Ekaterina Fomina, Head of the Department for the Development of Agro-Industrial Product Exports, Russian Ministry of Agriculture.
Dmitry Aveltsov — Director, Center for Agroanalytics, Russia
Joseph Siaw Agyepong — Founder and Executive Chairman, Jospong Group of Companies, Ghana
Dmitry Antonov — Senior Vice President, Resource
Lebo Diale — Head of Agriculture and Rural Development, North West Provincial Government, South Africa
Ingenesia Inge Zaamwani — Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform, Namibia
Salis Karakotov — General Director, Schelkovo Agrohim, Russia
Mikhail Sterkin — Deputy General Director for Marketing, PhosAgro, Russia
Mohammed Umaru Bago — Governor of Niger State, Nigeria
Alexander Yakuba — Adviser, Agroexport Federal Center, Russia

The session reflected the growing interest in combining agricultural technology transfer with partnerships involving African governments, agribusinesses and agricultural research institutions.

Food security and fertiliser cooperation

Food security was also addressed during the Summit's high-level discussions. Russia presented its role as a supplier of grain and fertilisers to African countries and expressed its willingness to expand cooperation in agricultural technologies and production systems.

Andrey Guryev, President of the Russian Association of Fertilizer Producers, highlighted declining fertiliser imports across Africa despite increasing Russian shipments. This raised questions about fertiliser affordability, supply chains and access to agricultural inputs.

While improving fertiliser availability can contribute to agricultural productivity, sustainable transformation also requires investments in soil health, locally adapted technologies, biodiversity, farmer knowledge and resilient agricultural systems.

28 Oct 2026 Russia-Africa exhibition

The President of Russia, together with the heads of delegations from African countries participating in the Russia-Africa Economic and Humanitarian Forum and Summit, toured the exhibition, A Platform for Sovereign Development: Advanced Russian Solutions in Key Economic and Social Sectors.

The exhibition showcased Russia’s achievements in areas with strong potential for cooperation with Africa, including the manufacturing industry, agriculture, energy, transport, finance, digital technologies and communications, healthcare, and education.

Third Russia–Africa Summit 2026 — Sideline Events

Wednesday, 28 October 2026

Official Opening of the Russia–Africa Youth Forum
Founding Meeting of the Russian-African Youth Union
Laboratory: Partnership of the New Generation: Entrepreneurial Initiatives Russia–Africa
Expert Discussion: Human Capital of Africa, with the presentation of the book Top 100 African Leaders and Influencers according to MGIMO
Expert Discussion: Connecting Continents: Logistics as the Basis of Partnership between Russia and Africa
Workshop: Who Tells about Africa? New Media and the Struggle for Global Narratives
World Café: Cultural Codes: Generating a Common Future
International Business Game: Negotiation Territory: Russia–Africa
Russia–Africa Concert

Thursday, 29 October 2026

Russia–Africa Energy Dialogue
Roundtable: Women’s Leadership in the Russia–Africa Partnership: Business, Science, Investment
Expert Discussion: Countering the Financing of Terrorism: A Comprehensive Response to Hybrid Threats
Roundtable: Regional University and the Global South: Education, Cultural, and Scientific Diplomacy on the Example of the Russian North
Roundtable: Russia and Africa at the Forefront of the Struggle against the Unipolar World Order and Neocolonial Practices
Plenary Session of the Russia–Africa Youth Forum

Extract of the Business Programme: Sessions and Speakers

2. The Russia–Africa Agro-Industrial Alliance: Meeting the Challenges Together

This session explored opportunities to strengthen agricultural cooperation between Russia and African countries through investment, technology transfer, agricultural machinery, fertilisers and infrastructure development. Discussions focused on building more resilient agricultural production systems, improving access to agricultural inputs and expanding local production capacities. The session also addressed the potential for joint ventures, agricultural research partnerships and the development of agro-industrial value chains, with the broader objective of strengthening African food security and reducing dependence on imports.

Moderator: Maria Kudryavtseva — Anchor, Russia 24 TV Channel.
Irina Akopyan — First Deputy General Director, A7
Igor Artemyev — President, St. Petersburg International Commodity and Raw Materials Exchange
Andrey Guryev — President, Russian Association of Fertilizer Producers (RAPU)
Vyacheslav Lukomets — Rector, Russian State Agrarian University–Moscow Timiryazev Agricultural Academy
Sergey Ryabkov — Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Russian Federation
Sherif Farouk — Minister of Supply and Internal Trade, Egypt
Mahamoud Ali Youssouf — Chairperson, African Union Commission

3. Directions for Developing the Educational Partnership Between Russia and Africa

The session examined opportunities to expand cooperation between Russian and African universities, research institutions and vocational education systems. Particular attention was given to academic mobility, joint degree programmes, scholarships, scientific exchanges and the development of technical skills required by emerging industries. The discussions highlighted the importance of strengthening African higher education and research capacities through long-term institutional partnerships, including opportunities for collaborative research, innovation and the training of young professionals.

Moderator: Timirkhan Alishev — Vice-Rector for External Relations, Kazan Federal University.
Yakov Itskov — Head of Alumina Business, RUSAL
Andrey Loginov — Rector, Russian State University for the Humanities
Konstantin Mogilevsky — Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education, Russia
Carolyne Ignatius Nombo — Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Tanzania
Andrey Rudskoi — Rector, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University
Jean Laurent Syssa-Magale — Minister of Higher Education, Scientific Research and Technological Innovations, Central African Republic
Delphine Edith Emmanuel Adouki — Minister of Higher Education, Republic of the Congo
Anastasiya Yarmosh — First Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs, Saint Petersburg State University

5. AI as a Factor in Russia's and Africa's Development: Science and Human Capital

This session explored the growing role of artificial intelligence in economic development, scientific research, education and public services across Russia and Africa. Discussions addressed opportunities for AI-driven innovation, digital infrastructure, skills development and technological cooperation, alongside challenges related to data governance, access to computing resources and digital inequalities. The session was particularly relevant to agricultural innovation, where AI-powered advisory services, digital knowledge platforms and decision-support tools could improve farmers' access to information, strengthen extension systems and support more inclusive technological development.

Moderator: Rashid Ismailov — Member of the Presidium, National Association for International Information Security.
Bocar A. BA — Chief Executive Officer, SAMENA Telecommunications Council
Arutyun Avetisyan — Director, Ivannikov Institute for System Programming, Russian Academy of Sciences
Andrey Akulchev — Acting Director, Department of International Information Security, Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Roger Andjalandji — Minister of Digital Economy, Posts and Telecommunications, Central African Republic
Tigran Gevorkyan — Head of a Research Center for Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare, N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology
Victor Aikael Kweka — Head of Department, Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority
Maxim Kolesnikov — First Deputy Minister of Economic Development, Russia
Rodrigue Charles Malanda Samba — Minister of Employment, Entrepreneurship and Qualifying Training, Republic of the Congo
Mulembwa Denis Munaku — Chief Executive Officer, Universal Communications Service Access Fund
Ivan Oseledets — Director General, AIRI Artificial Intelligence Institute; Dean, Faculty of Artificial Intelligence, Lomonosov Moscow State University

29 October 2026

17. From Land Degradation to Sustainable Development: Russia–Africa Cooperation on Land Restoration and Drought Resilience

The session addressed land degradation, desertification and drought as major challenges to agricultural productivity, food security and sustainable development in Africa. Participants examined opportunities for cooperation in soil restoration, sustainable land management, climate adaptation and the development of technologies to improve soil fertility and water-use efficiency. Particular attention was given to the African Great Green Wall initiative, the role of regional institutions and international partnerships, and the mobilisation of investments in land restoration. The discussions underscored the importance of combining scientific research, locally adapted technologies and policy frameworks to strengthen the resilience of agricultural landscapes and rural livelihoods.

Moderator: Oleg Kobyakov — Director, FAO Liaison Office with the Russian Federation.
Almoustapha Garba — Executive Secretary, Pan-African Agency of the Great Green Wall
Ingenesia Inge Zaamwani — Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform, Namibia
Elias Mpedi Magosi — Executive Secretary, Southern African Development Community (SADC)
Fatou Sagna — Technical Adviser to the Minister of Environment and Ecological Transition, Senegal
Mikhail Sterkin — Deputy General Director for Marketing, PhosAgro
Sherif Farouk — Minister of Supply and Internal Trade, Egypt
Yasmine Fouad — Executive Secretary, United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)
Ruslan Edelgeriyev — Aide to the President of Russia; Special Presidential Representative on Climate and Water Resources Issues

23. From Food Products to Agricultural Technologies

This session examined how Russia–Africa agricultural cooperation could evolve from trade in agricultural commodities towards technology transfer, joint production and long-term investment in African agrifood systems. Discussions focused on agricultural machinery, fertilisers, crop production technologies, agro-industrial processing and the development of local agricultural enterprises. The session highlighted opportunities for partnerships between governments, research institutions and private companies to improve productivity, strengthen agricultural value chains and support food security. Particular emphasis was placed on building local capacities and facilitating access to technologies adapted to African production conditions.

Moderator: Ekaterina Fomina — Head of the Department for the Development of Agro-Industrial Product Exports, Russian Ministry of Agriculture.
Dmitry Aveltsov — Director, Center for Agroanalytics
Joseph Siaw Agyepong — Founder and Executive Chairman, Jospong Group of Companies, Ghana
Dmitry Antonov — Senior Vice President, Resource
Lebo Diale — Head of Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, North West Provincial Government, South Africa
Ingenesia Inge Zaamwani — Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform, Namibia
Salis Karakotov — General Director, Schelkovo Agrohim
Mikhail Sterkin — Deputy General Director for Marketing, PhosAgro
Mohammed Umaru Bago — Governor of Niger State, Nigeria
Alexander Yakuba — Adviser to the Head, Agroexport Federal Center

36. Scientific Partnership Between Russia and Africa: From Joint Research to Technological Leadership

The session explored opportunities to deepen scientific cooperation between Russian and African research institutions through joint research programmes, researcher mobility, shared scientific infrastructure and technology development. Discussions considered how international research partnerships could contribute to technological innovation, strengthen national scientific capacities and support Africa's participation in emerging research fields. The session emphasised the importance of moving beyond traditional academic exchanges towards long-term institutional collaboration, joint innovation initiatives and the practical application of research results to development challenges.

Moderator: Irek Suleymanov — Deputy Head of International Cooperation, Joint Institute for Nuclear Research.
Roman Gorbunov — Director, Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences
Anton Maximov — Director, A.V. Topchiev Institute of Petrochemical Synthesis, Russian Academy of Sciences
Vladislav Panchenko — Vice President, Russian Academy of Sciences; Vice President, Kurchatov Institute
Natalia Solovyeva — Director, Rescue Archaeology Center
Alexander Terentyev — Director, N.D. Zelinsky Institute of Organic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences
Haja Ramatulai Wurie — Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Sierra Leone

Financing the Agroecological Transition: Practical Pathways for Agricultural Public Development Banks

28 October 2026 | 15:00–16:00 CET | Online

The Agricultural Public Development Bank (Agri-PDB) Platform organised a webinar on 28 October 2026 entitled “Financing the Agroecological Transition: Practical Pathways for Agricultural PDBs.” The event brought together public development banks, agroecology specialists and technical partners to explore practical approaches for financing sustainable, resilient and inclusive agrifood systems.

Building on previous discussions of the Agri-PDB Platform's Agroecology Working Group, peer-to-peer exchanges and specialised training programmes, the webinar focused on translating agroecological principles into concrete financing strategies. Particular attention was given to the experiences of agricultural development banks in adapting financial instruments, assessing agroecological investments and addressing the risks and challenges faced by farmers transitioning towards more sustainable production systems.

Speakers and institutional perspectives

Oliver Oliveros, Executive Coordinator of the Agroecology Coalition, bringing a global perspective on financing agroecological transformation.
Peter Chipeta, Head of Enterprise Development at the Malawi Agricultural and Industrial Investment Corporation (MAIIC), representing the experience of an African development finance institution.
Charuwan Satthakun, Director of the Office of Foreign Affairs at Thailand's Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC), contributing an Asian perspective on agricultural finance.
Olivier Claude Pierard, Agroecology Expert and Agri-PDB Platform Consultant, providing technical expertise on assessing and financing agroecological investments.

From agroecological principles to investment decisions

The webinar formed part of the Agri-PDB Platform's efforts to strengthen the capacity of financial institutions to support agroecological transitions. These efforts included practical training on financing instruments, risk management and tools for assessing agroecological performance, such as FAO's Tool for Agroecological Performance Evaluation (TAPE), Biovision's agroecology assessment tools and the Agroecology Coalition's assessment framework.

The event followed the April 2026 agroecology and climate finance training in Morocco, which brought together representatives of public development banks and financial institutions from several African countries. This training combined technical sessions, field visits and exchanges on financing sustainable agricultural enterprises and cooperatives.

Further information

Advancing Underutilized Legumes for Food Security, Nutrition and Climate Resilience in Africa

21–22 October 2026 | Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria

The Society for Underutilized Legumes (SUL) organised its 9th International Scientific Conference and Annual General Meeting, alongside its 8th National Stakeholders Summit. The events highlighted the potential of neglected and underutilized legumes to strengthen food and nutrition security, agricultural biodiversity, climate resilience and sustainable livelihoods across Africa.

Under the theme “Promoting Underutilized Legumes for Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security: Advances in Biotechnology, Value Chain Development and Climate-Smart Practices,” the conference brought together researchers, plant breeders, policymakers, farmers and agribusiness stakeholders. It was organised with the involvement of the National Agricultural Extension Research and Liaison Services (NAERLS), Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) and the Genetic Resources Center of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA).

Opening the conference on behalf of ABU Vice-Chancellor Professor Adamu Ahmed, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Raymond B. Bako emphasised the importance of interdisciplinary partnerships connecting scientific discoveries with farmers' needs, consumer preferences and commercial opportunities.

The keynote speaker, Dr Juliana Cheboi, Senior Lecturer in Plant Breeding and Biotechnology at the University of Nairobi, Kenya, highlighted the importance of combining genetic diversity, farmers' traditional knowledge, nutrition, entrepreneurship and climate resilience. She advocated identifying priority species and varieties together with farming communities, taking into account local ecological conditions and market demand.

Particular attention was given to Bambara groundnut, African yam bean and other indigenous legumes, which offer valuable nutritional benefits, contribute to soil fertility through biological nitrogen fixation and provide opportunities for diversifying African farming systems. However, their wider adoption remains constrained by insufficient research investment, limited access to quality seeds, inadequate processing facilities and weak market linkages.

The conference also provided an opportunity for the Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR) to showcase agricultural technologies and research innovations, while encouraging stronger collaboration between scientists, farmers, entrepreneurs and policymakers.

The discussions were highly relevant to GFAiR's Collective Action on Forgotten Foods, which promotes neglected and underutilized species through research partnerships, market development, youth entrepreneurship and stronger links between science and farming communities. The Society for Underutilized Legumes, established in 2016 at IITA, represents a valuable scientific network for advancing these objectives and expanding research collaboration across Africa.

The central message was that unlocking the potential of underutilized legumes required more than crop improvement alone. It called for integrated investments in research, seed systems, processing, market development and farmer-led innovation to transform these overlooked crops into viable contributors to sustainable African agrifood systems.

References

16th Indigenous and Traditional Seed and Food Festival

29–30 October 2026 at the People's Square, Hotel Africana in Kampala, Uganda. 16th Indigenous and Traditional Seed and Food Festival.

This prominent farmer-hosted dialogue and exhibition is the anchor event wrapping up the 2026 National Agroecology Week of Action, organized by PELUM Uganda.

Theme: "Our Seeds, Our Food, Our Heritage: Cultivating Climate Resilience through Culture and Tradition."
Host & Participants: Convened by PELUM Uganda alongside an alliance of smallholder farmers, ecological researchers, indigenous seed keepers, and academic institutions like the Uganda Martyrs University Faculty of Agriculture.
Primary Objective: Bridging the gap between agricultural research and the practical realities of smallholder fields. The dialogue centers on how farmer-managed seed systems, regenerative innovations, and traditional agroecological knowledge can build food security and climate-resilient livelihoods.

Research, Differently: African Farmers Call for a New Partnership in Agricultural Research and Innovation

29–30 October 2026 | Johannesburg, South Africa

The Southern African Confederation of Agricultural Unions (SACAU), in collaboration with AgriCord, organised an African farmer-hosted dialogue on agricultural research and innovation on 29–30 October 2026 at the Southern Sun OR Tambo International Airport Hotel in Johannesburg, South Africa. Under the theme “Research, Differently: From Research on Farmers to Research with Farmers,” the two-day dialogue brought together farmers' organisations, agricultural researchers and development partners to explore how African farmers could play a more decisive role in shaping agricultural research agendas, generating knowledge and influencing innovation systems.

The dialogue was guided by a fundamental question: “Who defines the agrifood research we want, and for whom?” It challenged conventional approaches in which research institutions and funders largely determine research priorities, budgets and success indicators, while farmers are frequently consulted without exercising meaningful decision-making authority.

From farmer participation to farmer leadership

The opening session featured contributions from Ishmael Sunga, Chief Executive Officer of SACAU, and Benito Eliasi (SACAU), who facilitated the introductions. The programme included a presentation by Professor Oluwole Fatunbi of the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) and a message from Professor Joachim von Braun of the University of Bonn.

The programme also provided opportunities for reflections from representatives of the African Forum for Agricultural Advisory Services (AFAAS), Centre for Coordination of Agricultural Research and Development for Southern Africa (CCARDESA), Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources Policy Analysis Network (FANRPAN), International Water Management Institute (IWMI), University of the Free State, and African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF). Their participation was listed as provisional in the workshop programme.

A central theme was the need to move beyond conventional participatory research towards genuine co-research, in which farmers' organisations helped define research questions, govern partnerships, allocate resources and determine how findings were applied.

The dialogue built on three complementary principles: researchers possessed knowledge that farmers did not; farmers possessed knowledge that researchers did not; and important challenges existed that neither group could resolve independently.

Building on the FORI programme and lessons from farmer-led research

The discussions drew on the experience of the Farmers' Organisations Leading Research and Innovation in Agroecology for Sustainable Food Systems (FORI) programme, financed by the European Union and the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS).

Implemented between 2022 and 2026 across 17 countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Pacific, FORI supported 13 farmer organisation-led action research projects, accompanied by AgriCord's member agri-agencies, with advocacy and knowledge exchange supported by the Pan-African Farmers' Organization (PAFO) and regional farmers' organisations.

The dialogue also drew on the findings of the 2025 SACAU–AgriCord webinar series, synthesised in the September 2026 publication Research, Differently: Rebalancing Knowledge and Power for Agroecological Innovation.

The publication identified five important lessons for transforming agricultural research partnerships:

Start with farmers' questions: Farmers and their organisations should participate in defining research priorities before methodologies and funding arrangements were established.
Combine scientific and experiential knowledge: Research should recognise farmers' practical knowledge alongside scientific expertise.
Invest in relationships and capabilities: Trust, communication, facilitation and organisational capacities were essential for effective collaboration.
Bring decisions and resources closer to farmers: Farmers' organisations needed greater influence over research governance, coordination, budgets and data rights.
Measure impact beyond scientific publications: Research success should also reflect practical relevance, adoption, farmer empowerment and wider institutional and societal change.

Experiences documented through FORI, including farmer-led experimentation, collaborative variety trials and farmer-to-farmer learning, illustrated how research could become more relevant when farmers exercised greater ownership of the innovation process.

Rethinking research priorities, institutions and financing

The Johannesburg dialogue examined six interconnected challenges: building trust between farmers and researchers; expanding research beyond agronomy to markets, value chains, finance and equity; recognising farmers' knowledge and data rights; scaling innovations beyond individual projects; transforming agricultural extension into continuous co-learning; and establishing financing arrangements that enabled farmers' organisations to lead research.

Particular attention was given to the institutional changes required to make farmer-led research sustainable. Traditional research systems often rewarded scientific publications and short-term project deliverables, while co-research required longer-term relationships, flexible financing and shared accountability.

The discussions also provided an opportunity to consider how farmers' organisations could become recognised research and innovation actors rather than remaining primarily beneficiaries, consultation partners or channels for technology adoption.

These questions were closely aligned with GFAiR's Partnership Principles, which emphasised equitable collaboration, shared decision-making, mutual accountability and the recognition of diverse knowledge systems in agricultural research and innovation.

From dialogue to action

The second day was structured around presentations from four breakout groups, followed by plenary discussions on commitments and the way forward.

Participants were invited to share examples of successful research collaborations, identify institutional or financial obstacles and propose practical changes that their organisations could undertake to strengthen farmer-led research.

The dialogue was designed to move beyond exchanging experiences towards developing a practical agenda for more equitable partnerships among farmers, research institutions and development partners.

The overarching message was that transforming agricultural research required more than introducing participatory methodologies. It required rebalancing power over research priorities, knowledge, financing and decision-making. Recognising farmers and their organisations as genuine research partners offered a pathway towards agricultural innovation that was more responsive to local needs, socially inclusive and capable of supporting sustainable agrifood systems.

References

SACAU and AgriCord (2026). Research, Differently: Rebalancing Knowledge and Power for Agroecological Innovation
African Farmer-Hosted Dialogue, Johannesburg, 29–30 October 2026 — workshop programme and dialogue agenda.

Africa Science and Innovation Forum 2026: Scaling Agricultural Innovation and Strengthening Africa–Europe Research Partnerships

27 October 2026 | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The Africa Science and Innovation Forum (ASIF 2026) was convened by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with the African Union Commission (AUC), the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA), the Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM), Ethiopia's Agricultural Transformation Institute (ATI) and other partners, the three-day forum focused on harnessing science, technology and innovation to accelerate Africa's agrifood systems transformation.

The Forum brought together policymakers, agricultural researchers, innovators, development partners, investors, farmers' organisations and private sector representatives to address a central challenge: how to translate Africa's scientific knowledge and innovations into practical solutions that improved agricultural productivity, strengthened climate resilience, created economic opportunities and contributed to food and nutrition security.

Connecting African innovation priorities with AU–EU research cooperation

The AU–EU High-Level Policy Dialogue on Science, Technology and Innovation (HLPD) and the second AU–EU Research and Innovation Ministerial Meeting provided a broader framework for strengthening cooperation between the two continents. The ministerial discussions addressed emerging priorities, including science diplomacy and artificial intelligence, as cross-cutting enablers of research and innovation cooperation.

For agricultural research, these policy developments reinforced the importance of aligning European investment with African-defined priorities and strengthening the capacity of African research and innovation institutions.

Initiatives such as DeSIRA+ and MAINSTREAM illustrated how AU–EU cooperation could move from high-level policy commitments towards practical investments in agroecology, institutional development, research partnerships and innovation scaling.

Extracts of the programme

27/10 Morning Plenary 1: Closing Africa’s productivity gap: scaling science, innovation and inclusive value-chain solutions

Moderator: Mandefro Nigussie, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Ethiopian Agricultural Transformation Institute
Charles Spillane, Chief Scientist, FAO
Tahirou Abdoulaye, Deputy Director General, Partnerships for Delivery and Scaling, International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA)
Dongxin Feng, Director, Joint FAO/IAEA Centre for Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture

27/10 Parallel Session 4: Nutrition, food safety and healthy diets through science and innovation

Francis Zotor, Vice President, International Union of Nutritional Sciences (IUNS)
John Oppong-Otoo, Food Safety Officer, African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources
Ildephonse Habinshuti,University of Rwanda, College of Agriculture, Forestry and Food Science, Department of Food Science and Technology Musanze-Rwanda
Luke Metelerkamp, Head: African City Food Centre, ICLEI
Francis John Sesay, Cassavity (SL) Ltd.

27/10 Parallel Session 6: Inclusive innovation ecosystems for women, youth, SMEs and small-scale producers

Nanko Madu, AfriLabs Director of Programmes
Esther Watts, Associate Vice President for Program Strategy and Partnerships, CARE, USA
Odile Mukeshimana, Assistant Lecturer and Researcher, Africa Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Cooling and Cold Chains (ACES)
Esther Kimani, Farmer Lifeline Technologies, Kenya

28/10 Morning Plenary 2: Science and innovation for resilience: managing multiple risks and stewarding Africa’s natural resources sustainably

Presenter: Aggrey Agumya, Executive Director, Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA)
Daher Elmi, Director of the Agriculture and Environment Division, ICPAC/IGAD
Jean-Chrysostome Ngabitsinze, Director General, African Risk Capacity (ARC) Group
Lavender Birike, Chief Executive Officer, Klima360

28/10 Parallel Session 10: Biodiversity, bioeconomy and nature-positive agrifood systems

Patrick Yawo Kpai, Founder & Lead Agronomist, BOF BioGrow Solutions Ltd
Tunde Adeyemi, D-Olivette Labs, Nigeria
Scott Newman, Senior Animal Production and Health Officer, FAO RAP
Oluwole Abiodun Fatunbi, Director of Research and Innovation, FARA

28/10 Parallel Session 12: Innovative financing models for agrifood science, technology and innovation
Moderator: Hua Yang, Director of the South-South and Triangular Cooperation Division, FAO
Hon. Robert Migadde Ndugwa, Minister of State for Fisheries, Uganda
Tara Nathan, Executive Vice President for Growth Segments and founder of Community Pass, Mastercard Inc.
George Theuri, CGIAR Independent Advisory and Evaluation Service (IAES), Nairobi, Kenya
Shinjiro Amameishi, General Coordinator, Coalition for African Rice Development (CARD)

28/10 Launch event MAINSTREAM – Mission-oriented agrifood innovation systems for sustainability transition through agroecology,

This is a project implemented by FAO and funded by the European Union under the DeSIRA+ initiative, within the framework of the EU Global Gateway strategy.

Running from September 2025 to September 2030, MAINSTREAM aimed to strengthen mission-oriented agrifood innovation systems in sub-Saharan Africa and beyond. Rather than focusing exclusively on individual technologies, the project supported governments and innovation partners in developing coordinated approaches to implementing national agroecology strategies.
A distinctive feature of MAINSTREAM was its establishment of regional innovation scaling hubs and innovation policy labs in Senegal, Kenya and Zimbabwe. These mechanisms were designed to strengthen collaboration between research institutions, policymakers, farmers, entrepreneurs and other innovation actors, while supporting the scaling of inclusive, gender- and youth-responsive agroecological innovations.
With MAINSTREAM, the FAO Office of Innovation turns that decade of experimentation with many partners in ecosystem strengthening into something operational: three regional innovation scaling hubs for West, East and Southern Africa, anchored in national innovation policy labs.

Wednesday, October 28, 2026

Bringing Forgotten Foods Back to the Table: Wageningen Symposium on Neglected and Underutilized Species

6 October 2026 | Wageningen University & Research, the Netherlands

On 26 October 2026, Wageningen University & Research (WUR) organized a symposium on Neglected and Underutilized Species (NUS) at the Omnia conference centre in Wageningen, the Netherlands. The event brought together researchers, chefs, nutrition specialists, ethnobotanists and food-system experts to explore the potential of indigenous and traditionally cultivated crops, trees and animal species to contribute to healthier diets, agricultural biodiversity and more sustainable food systems.

The symposium addressed a fundamental challenge: despite their importance in local food cultures and traditional agricultural systems, many species remain overlooked in research, agricultural policies and commercial markets. The programme examined how scientific research, culinary innovation, indigenous knowledge and consumer engagement can help bring these foods back into mainstream food systems.

From forgotten crops to culinary innovation

The symposium opened with remarks by Professor Alida Melse, Chairholder of Global Nutrition at Wageningen University & Research, followed by a panel discussion entitled

Getting NUS on the Table: Chefs' Perspective.

The panel featured Wisdom Abiro, Head Chef at the Ghana Food Movement; Emile van der Staak, chef at the Michelin-starred restaurant De Nieuwe Winkel in Nijmegen; and Wouter van Eck, a Dutch food forest pioneer.

The session explored the role of chefs and culinary innovation in making neglected species attractive and accessible to consumers. Restaurants and food entrepreneurs can help create demand for unfamiliar ingredients by introducing new recipes, demonstrating their culinary qualities and connecting traditional foods with contemporary dietary preferences.

Indigenous knowledge, markets and the politics of forgotten foods

Dr. Emma McDonell, University of Tennessee and author of The Quinoa Bust: The Making and Unmaking of an Andean Miracle Crop, presented a session on the cultural and economic politics of neglected species, drawing lessons from the international commercialization of quinoa.

The presentation raised important questions about how global demand for traditional crops can create economic opportunities while also generating challenges concerning equity, cultural heritage and the distribution of benefits along value chains.

Dr. Patrick Maundu, ethnobotanist at the National Museums of Kenya and the Kenya Resource Centre for Indigenous Knowledge (KENRIK), addressed the revitalization of botanical and cultural heritage. His contribution highlighted the importance of traditional knowledge, local communities and cultural identity in conserving and promoting indigenous food species.

Diversifying diets for better nutrition and biodiversity

The afternoon programme focused on the relationship between agricultural biodiversity and healthy diets.

Professor Baukje de Roos, University of Aberdeen, and Dr. Corné van Dooren, Wageningen University & Research, addressed the biodiversity of diets and its implications for sustainable nutrition.

Dr. Mathieu Ayenan, vegetable breeder at the World Vegetable Center in Benin, presented Diversifying Healthy Diets through Neglected and Underutilized Species, focusing on the potential of lesser-known vegetables and crops to improve dietary diversity and strengthen food systems.

Together, these sessions explored the opportunities for integrating a wider range of species into agricultural production, food environments and dietary recommendations.

Interactive discussions on six priorities

The symposium included six thematic roundtables, each addressing a specific dimension of NUS promotion:

Culinary Perspectives on NUS – facilitated by Wisdom Abiro.
Climate, Youth and Biodiversity – facilitated by Erica Galanti, FAO.
Diversifying Crop Production – facilitated by Mathieu Ayenan and Wouter van Eck.
Governance and Indigenous Knowledge – facilitated by Emma McDonell.
Food Biodiversity and Health – facilitated by Baukje de Roos and Carl Lachat, Ghent University.
Storytelling and Consumer Acceptance of NUS – facilitated by Dan Saladino and Patrick Maundu.

These discussions provided opportunities to examine how research, policy, entrepreneurship and communication can contribute to greater recognition and use of neglected species.

Eating to Extinction: Why biodiversity matters

The symposium concluded with a keynote presentation by Dan Saladino, BBC journalist and author of Eating to Extinction: The World's Rarest Foods and Why We Need to Save Them.

His presentation, Eating to Extinction: Why Biodiversity Matters, placed the symposium's discussions within the wider challenge of declining diversity in global food systems. The keynote focused on the importance of safeguarding disappearing foods, agricultural knowledge and culinary traditions as part of efforts to build more resilient and sustainable food systems.

Further information: Wageningen University & Research – Symposium on Neglected and Underutilized Species, 26 October 2026

Organizers: Dr. Kim Maasen, Dr. Corné van Dooren and Heleen Broekkamp, Division of Human Nutrition and Health; and Dr. Siera Vercillo, Public Administration and Policy Group, Wageningen University & Research.

Brewing for Impact: How an Ancient African Grain Is Transforming the Global Beer Industry

An innovative international collaboration led by Garrett Oliver, brewmaster at Brooklyn Brewery in New York, is demonstrating how fonio, an ancient and drought-resistant West African grain, can create new opportunities for sustainable brewing, agricultural biodiversity and smallholder farmers.

Launched in April 2024, Brewing for Impact brings together leading breweries from Africa, Europe, Asia and North America to develop beers using fonio, while promoting a more diverse and climate-resilient agricultural future.

Rediscovering fonio: Africa's climate-resilient grain

Fonio (Digitaria exilis) is one of Africa's oldest cultivated cereals, grown for more than 5,000 years across West Africa, particularly in Senegal, Guinea, Mali and Burkina Faso. Sometimes referred to as the "seed of the universe," this traditional grain can grow in nutrient-poor soils under relatively dry conditions, often with few agricultural inputs.

Despite its nutritional value, cultural significance and resilience, fonio remains underutilized in international food markets. Its small grain size, labour-intensive processing and limited industrial infrastructure have historically constrained commercialization.

However, increasing interest in sustainable foods and climate-resilient crops is creating new opportunities. Fonio can be used in porridge, couscous-like dishes, bakery products and increasingly in beverages, including beer.

Garrett Oliver brings fonio to international brewing

Garrett Oliver's interest in fonio began in 2019 after meeting Pierre Thiam, the Senegalese chef and founder of Yolélé, a company promoting African ingredients in international markets. Inspired by Thiam's efforts to connect West African farmers with global consumers, Oliver began experimenting with fonio as a brewing ingredient.

His early experiments demonstrated that fonio could produce beers with distinctive flavours and aromas, while offering an alternative to conventional brewing grains.

In April 2024, to celebrate his 30th anniversary at Brooklyn Brewery, Oliver launched Brewing for Impact, mobilizing an international coalition of breweries to explore fonio's commercial potential.

The initiative brought together:

Maison Kalao (Senegal) – developed Brooklyn A Dakar, a fonio-based pilsner.
Thornbridge Brewery (United Kingdom) – introduced a fonio cask pale ale.
Omnipollo (Sweden) – created a fonio version of Black Chocolate Stout.
Carlsberg (Denmark) – developed an experimental lager replacing barley entirely with fonio.
Russian River Brewing Company (United States) – joined the collaborative brewing programme.
Jing-A Brewing (China) – explored fonio in contemporary Chinese craft brewing.
Guinness (Ireland) – collaborated with Oliver on a limited-edition Guinness Fonio Stout, released in November 2024.
Brooklyn Brewery (United States) – developed Fonio Rising Pale Ale, which expanded to nationwide distribution in the United States in February 2025.

Each collaboration demonstrated how a traditional African grain could be incorporated into different brewing traditions, from pilsners and pale ales to stouts.

Creating new markets for West African smallholder farmers

Beyond brewing innovation, the initiative aims to generate new demand for fonio and strengthen commercial opportunities for West African farmers, including women smallholders.

Through its partnership with Yolélé and its sourcing networks, the initiative connects the international brewing industry with African agricultural value chains. A 2025 presentation by Brooklyn Brewery reported that its fonio projects had sourced more than 12 tonnes of grain directly from West African smallholder farmers.

However, expanding this market also presents challenges. Increased international demand requires investment in processing facilities, quality standards, traceability, reliable supply chains and fair commercial arrangements that ensure farmers benefit from higher-value markets.

The initiative also supports the Michael James Jackson Foundation for Brewing and Distilling, established by Garrett Oliver to increase opportunities for Black, Indigenous and other underrepresented professionals in the brewing and distilling industries.

Relevance to GFAiR's Collective Action on Forgotten Foods

Brewing for Impact offers a compelling example of the opportunities promoted by the GFAiR Collective Action on Forgotten Foods, which seeks to revive neglected and underutilized species (NUS) through research, entrepreneurship, market development and recognition of indigenous agricultural knowledge.

Fonio illustrates how a crop historically overlooked by mainstream agricultural research and international markets can attract commercial interest when connected with innovative processing technologies, product development and strategic partnerships.

Three lessons are particularly relevant to GFAiR and its partners.

First, creating demand is essential. Reviving forgotten crops requires more than improving agricultural production. Innovative applications, such as brewing, can create new markets that encourage farmers to maintain or expand cultivation.
Second, international partnerships can accelerate innovation. The collaboration between Pierre Thiam, Garrett Oliver, African farmers and breweries across several continents demonstrates how entrepreneurs, food processors and international companies can work together to develop new value chains.
Third, market expansion must benefit local producers. For the commercial success of fonio to contribute to inclusive agrifood systems, investments are needed in local processing, farmer organizations, research, quality assurance and equitable value-chain partnerships.

These priorities closely reflect the objectives of GFAiR's Collective Action on Forgotten Foods, including its engagement with African diaspora entrepreneurs, research institutions and agrifood SMEs to develop markets for indigenous African crops.

The experience also provides an interesting model for other forgotten foods, such as Bambara groundnut, finger millet and sorghum, whose potential for innovative food and beverage products remains insufficiently explored.

From forgotten grain to global innovation

The expansion of fonio into international brewing demonstrates that Africa's agricultural biodiversity is not merely a heritage to preserve but also a resource for innovation, entrepreneurship and economic development.

By connecting traditional crops with modern industries, Brewing for Impact offers an example of how commercial innovation can generate new demand for climate-resilient agricultural products while drawing attention to the farmers and communities that have maintained these crops for generations.

For GFAiR's Collective Action on Forgotten Foods, the central lesson is clear: transforming neglected crops into commercially successful products requires connecting agricultural research, local processing, entrepreneurial innovation and international markets, while ensuring that African farmers share in the benefits.

References and further information

Brooklyn Brewery – Launch of Brewing for Impact (25 April 2024)
Brewing for Impact: Garrett Oliver and the potential of fonio – Hop Culture (15 July 2024)
Carlsberg and Brooklyn Brewery develop a barley-free fonio lager (25 July 2024)
Guinness Fonio Stout collaboration (13 November 2024)
GFAiR – Collective Action on Forgotten Foods