Challenges and solutions for food systems transformation in East and Southern Africa

Time: 15:00-16:30 EAT | Registration | English and French interpretation available

As part of IFAD’s Rural Development Report Policy Dialogue Series, this event will explore using food systems for inclusive rural transformation in the East and Southern Africa region. The event will focus on:

• Low-income rural producers, particularly women and youth
• Achieving other key objectives of food systems transformation, such as sustainability and nutrition
• Practical ways stakeholders can strengthen food systems to benefit small-scale producers
• Mitigating the impacts of COVID-19, the Ukraine conflict, and other ongoing food systems challenges.

Moderator: Sara Mbago-Bhunu, Regional Director, East and Southern Africa, IFAD

Opening remarks: Dr. Janet Edeme, Director, Rural Economy and Agriculture, African Union Commission

Presentation: Romina Cavatassi, Lead Economist, IFAD

Speakers:

• Gina Bonne, Director of Sustainable Environment and Climate Change, Indian Ocean Commission
• Domingos Gove, Director, Food Agriculture and Natural Resources, Southern Africa Development Community
• Dr. Dereje Wakjira, Director of the Centre for Pastoral Areas and Livestock Development, Intergovernmental Authority on Development
• Ishmael Sunga, CEO of the Southern African Confederation of Agricultural Unions