By: GOSHU MELISEW
Ethiopia is set to host the First Thousand African Youth Summit on Food Systems and Agroecology from October 14-16, 2024.
The upcoming summit, jointly organized by the Ministry of Planning and Development alongside the Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa (AFSA), aims to unite 1,000 young leaders from 50 different African nations. Out of these participants, 250 will be present in person, while the remainder will connect virtually, all with the goal of addressing the continent's most pressing food security issues.
This event is designed to empower the youth of Africa, encouraging them to take the reins of their own futures and build a cohesive pan-African network. It presents a unique opportunity for these young leaders to exchange innovative ideas and strategies to tackle the escalating challenges posed by climate change, ensuring that everyone has access to food.
According to Milion Belay (PhD), General Coordinator of Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa (AFSA), the event is designed to highlight the critical role of African youth and natural resources in shaping the continent’s future.
Mensur Dessie, Executive Director of Environment, Climate Change, and Strategic Partnerships at the Ministry of Planning and Development, emphasizes that the summit aims to offer a platform for African youth to present innovative solutions to food security challenges intensified by climate change.
The summit will feature discussions on agroecology, a farming method that harmonizes with nature, will be a cornerstone of the summit. Young leaders will exchange experiences and insights on addressing food security challenges, fostering a powerful network for future collaboration.
Ethiopia will showcase its successes in sustainable agriculture, including the Green Legacy initiative and the "Bounty of the Basket" program, inspiring others to adopt similar approaches.
The summit will coincide with World Food Day, highlighting the importance of food security for everyone. The theme, "African Youth Showcasing Agroecological Opportunities in Adapting to the Climate Crisis to Address Food System Challenges in Africa," emphasizes the crucial role the youth play in shaping a sustainable future for the continent.