DAKAR, July 21 (NNN-AGENCIES) — Senegal is set to host over 6,000 food systems leaders from over 90 countries during the 19th edition of the Africa Food Systems Forum (AFSF) in August in Dakar.
Among leaders expected include: Heads of State, Ministers, Investors, Youth and Women agripreneurs, Researchers and Donors.
Themed “Africa’s Youth: Leading Collaboration, Innovation, and Implementation of Africa’s Food Systems Transformation”, this will mark Africa’s most significant agriculture and food-systems moment, hosted by a nation that is budding with youthful innovation.
Africa’s young people are driving food systems transformation now and this year’s AFS Forum will amplify their leadership, connect them to resources and ensure they’re at the center of Africa’s food future.
Making the announcement, Senegal’s Minister of Agriculture Food Sovereignty and Livestock, Dr. Mabouba Diagne said the forum reflects the country’s deep commitment to transforming food systems and empowering its young population.
“With nearly 60pc of Africa’s population under 25, youth are the most potent force shaping the continent’s future. Senegal is therefore honoured to convene Africa’s most influential agriculture leaders and hope that this year’s Forum will shape policy, investment, and innovation. We welcome the world to Dakar and reinforce our belief that Africa can achieve food resilience and sustainable systems.” Dr. Diagne noted.
Delegates from more than 90 countries are expected to arrive in Dakar, with participation from key international institutions including the Africa Union, UN agencies and major development institutions. Representation will span public and private sectors, academia, NGOs, media, youth, women and farming communities.
Agriculture employs nearly 69pc of Senegal’s labour force, contributing roughly 17pc of GDP.
As a Sahel nation, Senegal has invested aggressively in irrigation, storage infrastructure, and resilient farming systems. Hosting this forum reinforces Senegal’s leadership in regional food systems transformation. — NNN-AGENCIES
