First High-Learning Event for Food Systems Resilience in Eastern & Southern Africa Commences in Addis

Addis Ababa, March 4, 2025 (FMC) – The first High-Learning Event for the Food Systems Resilience Program (FSRP) for Eastern and Southern Africa has commenced in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

The three-day event, running from March 4 to 6, is hosted by the African Union Commission, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), and the Centre for Coordination of Agricultural Research and Development for Southern Africa (CCARDESA), with support from the World Bank.

Senior government officials, representatives from international organizations, policymakers, agricultural experts, and private sector stakeholders have gathered at Skylight Hotel to assess FSRP’s progress, exchange knowledge, and strengthen regional collaboration on food system resilience.

Discussions will focus on achievements at national and regional levels, best practices, and the role of digital technologies and trade integration in food security.

Speaking on behalf of IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu, IGAD’s Head of Mission to Ethiopia, Abebaw Bihonegn, highlighted the growing challenges of food insecurity in Africa due to climate change, conflicts, and economic shocks.

He emphasized that addressing these issues requires a shift from traditional approaches to a food systems-focused strategy. He noted that the FSRP, implemented with World Bank support, provides a unique opportunity for regional collaboration and integration.

Abebaw also underscored IGAD’s new role as chair of the Inter-RECs platform, which will enhance coordination among regional economic communities to shape AU policies, including those related to food security.

In his opening remarks, Ethiopia’s State Minister for Agriculture, Ifa Muleta, reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to strengthening food systems resilience. He noted that while Ethiopia has made progress in food security and nutrition, challenges such as climate change, droughts, and conflicts persist.

He emphasized Ethiopia’s focus on nutrition-sensitive agriculture, policy reforms, and digital innovations like Amifarm and Hello Tractor to enhance productivity and market access. He also reiterated Ethiopia’s support for the AU’s Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Program (CAADP) and Agenda 2063, which aim to transform agriculture and ensure long-term food security across the continent.

According to him, the event serves as a platform for fostering collaboration and refining strategies to build resilient food systems capable of withstanding climate, economic, and political disruptions.

Participants of this event are expected to share insights and align efforts to drive sustainable food security in Eastern and Southern Africa.

By Mesafint Brlie