African heads of state gathered in Dakar, Senegal, for the 19th edition of the African Food Systems Forum. The main goal of the meeting was to rethink and strengthen the continent’s food sovereignty and security. During the discussions, leaders explored new mechanisms to enable Africa with its 65% share of the world’s arable land and abundant workforce to overcome food shortages and contribute to feeding the world.
At Dakar, the 19th African Food Systems Forum brought together several heads of state around a shared realization: Africa faces a critical food situation. Yet, the continent holds major assets 65% of the world’s unused arable land, abundant water resources, and a young, ready-to-work population. A vast potential that remains largely untapped.
“In addition to low yields and post-harvest losses that can reach up to 30% of the harvested products, all these factors contribute to the persistence of hunger and undernutrition on our continent. Addressing food systems has therefore become an urgent priority.”
Bachirou DIOMAYE FAYE, President of the Republic – Senegal
In their statements, African leaders called for a structural transformation of the agricultural sector. Climate challenges, lack of investment, and limited access to financing were identified as the main obstacles to productivity. States committed to creating a favorable environment to boost this vital sector, in a context where food sovereignty has become a strategic urgency.
At the continental level, we face predominantly subsistence agriculture that must be modernized and made sustainable. Moreover, major challenges such as climate change deeply affect us. These issues are at the heart of our reflections on the necessary transformation.
Paul Kagame, President of the Republic – Rwanda
However, solutions cannot come from governments alone. On the ground, several NGOs and local organizations have proposed concrete approaches, including the implementation of regional agricultural investment programs tailored to national realities. The goal is to build strong, sustainable, and, above all, inclusive value chains capable of improving food security across the continent.
There have been advances, notably the recognition of the importance of family farming, which largely feeds the continent. Unfortunately, the message often focuses on the quantities of imported food rather than the amounts produced by African farmers. Also overlooked is the number of jobs created by family farming.
Nadjirou Sall, Secretary General of ROPPA – Senegal
This forum could mark a turning point. By relying on its own resources and reducing dependence on imports, Africa can not only feed its population but also become a key player in global food security. A colossal challenge, but one that matches its ambitions.
