The Centre for African Leaders in Agriculture (CALA) hosted a pivotal Leadership Forum during the African Food Systems Forum 2024, drawing 40 influential delegates from across the continent. The forum, themed “From Local Fields to Global Impact: Leading Food System Innovation in a Digital and Climate Era,” offered participants actionable strategies and insights to navigate the complexities of modern food systems.
The event gathered key figures from governments, civil society, and the private sector, emphasizing the urgent need for innovation in Africa’s food systems amid the challenges posed by digital advancements and climate change. Delegates were introduced to the principles of Action Learning, a powerful tool for designing impactful projects that address real-world food system challenges.
Empowering the Next Generation of Innovators
Dr. Agnes Kalibata, President of the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), highlighted the importance of nurturing young leaders in her remarks at the forum. “Young people need to push themselves harder to do more and be problem solvers. That is what CALA is about—nurturing the next generation of problem solvers. Use us as your platform to do more. We look forward to seeing your projects and being part of your success,” she urged.
The forum also marked the inaugural meeting for the incoming CALA Cohort 4 delegates, inspiring them to embark on relevant and impactful projects aimed at transforming Africa’s food systems. These new leaders are expected to play a critical role in driving sustainable practices that enhance local food production, bolster resilience to climate change, and uplift the livelihoods of African farmers.
Addressing the Leadership Gap
Jonathan Said, Vice President of the Centre for Technical Expertise at AGRA, emphasized the need to address the leadership gap in Africa’s agricultural and food systems transformation. “Empowering key actors in the continent with practical insights and strategies to lead innovation and implement transformative food systems solutions is essential to achieving Africa’s food security agenda,” he noted.
The forum reaffirmed CALA’s commitment to supporting African leaders in this crucial mission. Participants left the event equipped with new connections to leading innovators and thought leaders, ready to collaborate on cutting-edge technologies and developments in agriculture.
A Call to Action
CALA called upon all leaders, stakeholders, and partners in the agricultural sector to take bold and immediate actions towards transforming Africa’s food systems. The forum’s success underscores the vital role of leadership in driving the continent’s food security agenda forward.
As Africa faces mounting challenges in food production and sustainability, the CALA Leadership Forum stands out as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change, empowering the next generation of leaders to make a lasting impact on the continent’s future.
