‘Neglecting food system challenges could lead to hunger in Africa by 2030’

African leaders have stressed the urgency of taking concrete steps to address food system challenges, warning that neglecting this could lead to hunger in the continent by 2030.

He said the crucial role of smallholder farmers in African agriculture, highlighting the counterproductive nature of ignoring their needs. Chairman of Nigeria’s Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and Tetfund, Sen. Dandutse Muntari Mohamme, passionately called for collaboration among countries, harnessing innovation and technology for progress, and advocating for concrete solutions to address resource constraints and attract international involvement.
 
The Speaker of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament, Sidie Mohamed Tunis, highlighted the accomplishments of the private sector in agriculture as a model for potential success.   He urged policymakers to partner with the private sector to foster agricultural growth, underscoring the vast opportunities present in Africa.
  
In one of the sessions tagged: Generation Africa Opening Ceremony, the panel discussion revolved around making careers in agriculture appealing to young people, fostering comprehensive support systems for youth, and emphasising the importance of forming extensive partnerships. 
 
The Co-founder and Executive Chair of Sahel Consulting and AGRA Board Member, Ms. Ndidi Okonkwo Nwuneli, highlighted the impact of showcasing success stories of young individuals thriving in the food ecosystem, with a special focus on the role of partnerships in supporting and promoting the work of women.
 
The President and CEO of Yara International, Mr. Svein Tore Holsether, stressed the significance of bringing businesses and communities together to provide mentorship opportunities and emphasised that effective communication and storytelling are crucial in creating business opportunities across the entire food system.