Africa stands as the linchpin in the global quest to eradicate hunger and poverty. Here, monumental strides can be achieved, with agrifood systems transformation serving as the cornerstone for sustainable development and modernization.
In the upcoming 33rd Session of the FAO Regional Ministerial Conference for Africa (ARC33) in Morocco from April 18-20, Ministers of Agriculture from across the continent will convene. This gathering presents a crucial opportunity for unified action.
I implore African nations to seize the momentum of agrifood systems transformation to unlock a multitude of benefits spanning food security and nutrition, economic prosperity, social equity, environmental sustainability, and resilience.
At FAO, our strategic vision for the years ahead is encapsulated in the FAO Strategic Framework 2022-2031, which revolves around the concept of the Four Betters: enhancing production, nutrition, environment, and quality of life for all, ensuring that no one is left behind.
The Four Betters serve not only as a vision but also as a rallying call to action. They provide the roadmap through which countries can revolutionize agrifood systems, making them more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. This transformation is essential for fulfilling the commitments of the Sustainable Development Goals and the post-Malabo agenda.
By promoting better production through initiatives like mechanization, digitalization, agrifood industrialization, and green-powered irrigation, African nations can significantly increase productivity and efficiency while bolstering resilience against the challenges posed by the climate crisis.
The fact that more than 1 billion Africans cannot afford a healthy diet is simply unacceptable. FAO is committed to promoting better nutrition by collaborating with countries and partners to make healthy diets affordable and accessible for all.
Improving the environment is crucial for Africa’s well-being and long-term prosperity. Initiatives like the Great Green Wall and FAO’s Green Cities Initiative are reclaiming degraded land, promoting sustainable land use, addressing climate change, and supporting urban food systems.
Creating a better life for everyone entails addressing forced migration, fostering inclusive rural development, empowering women, and providing meaningful employment opportunities for African youth. By ensuring no one is left behind, we can build a more equitable and prosperous Africa.
Africa’s potential is immense. With the continent dominating the list of the world’s fastest-growing economies and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) promising to boost intra-African trade, economic growth is on the horizon. Africa’s abundant natural resources and vast arable land, coupled with its youthful population, present untapped opportunities for innovation and progress.
However, conflict poses a significant obstacle to development. FAO is committed to supporting efforts to reduce conflicts, particularly those arising from competition over natural resources, and building resilience in the face of adversity. Peace and stability are essential for sustainable development and food security.
Addressing the climate crisis is also imperative. Agrifood systems transformation not only mitigates the impacts of climate change but also reverses some of the damage already inflicted. FAO’s Regional Ministerial Conference for Africa provides a vital platform for governments to discuss agrifood systems transformation and capacity building.
Morocco serves as an inspiration in agricultural development, demonstrating progress in modernizing and diversifying agricultural production. Strategic partnerships and increased investments are crucial for success, as exemplified by FAO’s Hand-in-Hand Initiative, which mobilized over USD 900 million for agrifood systems in Africa in the last biennium.
Africa’s narrative is evolving, moving beyond stereotypes of poverty to embrace its diversity and vibrancy. Through science, technology, and responsible investment, African nations can unlock their true potential. Let us work together on agrifood systems transformation to realize better production, nutrition, environment, and quality of life for all, leaving no one behind.
