The 33rd Session of the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) Regional Ministerial Conference for Africa (ARC33) commenced with a sobering acknowledgment of the rising hunger levels across the continent.
QU Dongyu, director-general of FAO, highlighted the multifaceted challenges exacerbating this crisis, including the lingering impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic, ongoing conflicts, the climate crisis, and economic shocks.
Addressing delegates, Qu emphasised Africa’s vast potential, boasting the largest area of arable land globally and abundant natural resources. He expressed optimism about the continent’s future, particularly the potential of its young population.
Strategic partnerships are key
To tackle these challenges and capitalise on opportunities, Qu stressed the importance of strategic partnerships, increased investments, and the harnessing of digital technologies to drive efficiency and productivity in Africa’s agriculture sectors.
According to FAO data, hunger levels in Africa reached 19.7% in 2022, twice the global rate, with 868 million Africans lacking access to adequate food. However, prime minister Aziz Akhannouch of Morocco offered a glimmer of hope in his opening remarks, highlighting the Kingdom’s substantial investments in agrifood initiatives aimed at improving rural incomes.
The ARC33 serves as a platform for high-level consultations to identify key priorities in the region, shaping FAO’s Programme of Work and Budget for the next biennium.
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FAO’s strategic framework for 2022 to 2031 revolves around the concept of “Four Betters” – better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life. Qu emphasised that these are not just aspirations but a call to action.
Despite challenges posed by conflicts and climate change, Africa remains home to some of the world’s fastest-growing economies. The emerging shift towards a continental free trade area presents opportunities for increased investment in the region.
Qu highlighted FAO’s innovative initiatives in Africa, including projects utilising drones for livestock reproduction in Rwanda and larvae of black flies to convert food waste into organic fertilizer in Côte d’Ivoire.
Ministers attending ARC33 are encouraged to exchange knowledge and best practices to enable each country to lead its agrifood system transformation. FAO stands ready to support these endeavours.
The regional conference will feature special events focusing on emerging technologies, climate resilience, market dynamics, aquatic foods, agricultural mechanisation, digitalisation, inclusive policies, biodiversity, desertification, and livestock development strategies.
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