I recently had the privilege of attending the Africa Food Systems (AFS) Forum Annual Summit in Kigali, Rwanda, alongside my colleagues from the International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC). It was a powerful gathering of thought leaders, policymakers, farmers, and development practitioners, each with the same vision: to transform Africa’s food systems in ways that benefit the people who rely on them the most.
Amid the vibrant discussions, I was reminded of the tremendous resilience of smallholder farmers across Africa, especially the women and youth who make up the backbone of our agricultural systems. These individuals work tirelessly, often with minimal resources, to ensure that our continent and beyond have food on their plates. And yet, despite their dedication, they continue to face a myriad of challenges – challenges that are only growing more complex by the day.
To begin at the most basic level, the price of food across the continent has risen significantly, spurred by external global shocks that range from geopolitical conflicts to disruptions in supply chains. At the same time, farmers are grappling with poor-quality inputs, such as seeds that fail to germinate and fertilizers that do not boost yields. As if this were not enough, we are now witnessing, in real time, the impact of climate change.
In southern Africa, for example, the region is experiencing one of the worst droughts in recorded history. Zimbabwe, one of the hardest-hit countries, has lost 70% of its crop yield due to a scorching heatwave, the worst in 40 years. Farmers in West Africa are dealing with a delayed rainy season, further complicating their planting cycles. At every turn, farmers in Africa are being asked to do more with less.
The reality is sobering: one in every five people in Africa is projected to be facing chronic hunger. Additionally, agricultural land is being lost at an alarming rate due to unsustainable farming practices and degradation. In Uganda, for instance, much of the land in highland farming regions is degrading faster than it can be restored. This is a clear sign that we need to act, and act quickly.
Despite the clear evidence and urgency of the situation, the pace of food systems transformation in Africa is not advancing at the speed or scale required.
The conversations at the summit made one thing abundantly clear: we need to go beyond talking. Action must now be our focus.
In Uganda, IFDC is addressing some of these challenges through initiatives such as Building Resilience and Inclusive Growth of Highland farming systems for rural Transformation (BRIGHT). This initiative is building resilience among 100,000 highland farm households, specifically focusing on helping them navigate the economic and climate-related shocks they face. By promoting inclusive farm planning, supporting climate-smart agriculture, and strengthening local farming systems, BRIGHT aims to foster sustainable food production while conserving natural resources. This initiative goes beyond simply responding to immediate needs; it strategically positions farmers for long-term success by integrating them into well-developed value chains.
The lessons we are learning through BRIGHT are applicable not only to Uganda, but to the entire continent. We know that transforming Africa’s food systems will not only ensure food and nutrition security for millions but also generate sustainable jobs, particularly for youth and women. The potential is there, but we must be intentional about creating systems that are both inclusive and resilient.
The summit’s theme of accountability echoed in every session. We need stronger inter-sectoral and inter-ministerial coordination. No single institution, government, or organization can drive transformation alone. Development and technical partners must not only align their support but also harmonize their efforts. We cannot afford to have fragmented initiatives that address parts of the problem while neglecting the whole.
Equally important is the inclusion of youth and women in every part of the agri-food value chain. Their participation can no longer be viewed as an afterthought. Their contributions are central to Africa’s food security future. Attracting investments – whether through public, private, philanthropic, or producer partnerships – is key.
The challenges are daunting, yes. But they are not insurmountable…Africa can build a food system that is resilient and capable of feeding its people and the world.
Samuel Ssempala
The power of partnership was a recurring theme throughout the AFS Forum Summit. And while we have seen progress, it is clear that more needs to be done. Governments must commit to reforms that foster growth and inclusivity and address the policy bottlenecks that are stifling innovation and slowing progress.
We need to create spaces for businesses to thrive, exchange knowledge on successful strategies, and make a concerted effort to scale these endeavors.
During the summit, I was pleased to see Uganda’s government delegation, led by Uganda Minister of State for Animal Industry Dr. Bright Rwamirama, actively engage in discussions. On the sidelines, we agreed that Uganda must move beyond summit rhetoric and proactively work toward implementing the discussed recommendations. The government has already shown a commitment to food systems transformation by supporting youth and women in agriculture and through ongoing reforms aimed at fostering a more resilient food system. Dr. Rwamirama reaffirmed that Uganda is prepared to take concrete actions, not only in policy but also in driving real, impactful change on the ground.
The challenges are daunting, yes. But they are not insurmountable. With concerted effort and genuine partnerships, Africa can build a food system that is resilient and capable of feeding its people and the world. We must be accountable to ourselves and to those who depend on us.
At IFDC, we are ready to continue playing our part, with over 50 years of experience working alongside governments and partners to make meaningful strides in transforming food systems. The time for action is now, and together, we can chart a path that ensures food security, creates jobs, and safeguards the future for the next generation.
