KEYIR NEWS - Ethiopia is working to transform Africa’s food challenges into opportunities. The country aims to build a resilient and sustainable food system. This effort was highlighted at the African Chefs Summit and Food Policy Forum in Addis Ababa.
The summit was launched by the Ministry of Planning and Development. It was held in partnership with the African Food Sovereignty Alliance. The event brought together participants from across Africa. These included food experts, producers, policymakers, and development partners.
The focus of the forum is broad. It includes Africa’s food heritage, agroecology, and policy change. Food sovereignty and system reform are key themes. The forum promotes collaboration across sectors and countries.
Hana Abebe represented the Planning Ministry at the forum. She noted Ethiopia’s great agricultural potential. The country has diverse ecosystems and rich farming traditions. This positions it well to lead regional food system reforms.
Hana outlined Africa’s key food challenges. These include rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns. Land degradation and climate change also threaten food systems. These factors reduce productivity and food security.
She said solutions must be timely and rooted in African realities. Agroecology and traditional practices are vital. They support sustainable farming and rural livelihoods. Hana called for a shift from industrial models to ecological ones.
“Food systems must reflect Africa’s needs and culture,” she said. “We must act together to protect our future.”
The summit stressed the role of policy in transformation. Governments were urged to support farmers and agroecological methods. Participants also called for better land use and investment in local food chains.
Speakers highlighted the importance of food heritage. They said African cuisines are part of the solution. Preserving traditional knowledge strengthens identity and sovereignty.
Climate change remains a major threat. It affects soil, water, and weather patterns. This makes farming harder and less predictable. Experts urged stronger action on adaptation and resilience.
The forum’s discussions will inform policy recommendations. These will support regional and continental food strategies. Organisers hope the outcomes will influence decision-making at all levels.
Africa imports much of its food. This creates dependency and economic risk. Speakers said local food production must rise. Supporting small farmers is essential to this goal.
The forum also touched on urban food needs. Cities face rapid growth and rising demand. Urban agriculture and food planning are key tools. These can improve access and reduce waste.
Participants praised Ethiopia’s leadership. The country’s efforts were seen as a model for others. They noted its growing focus on sustainability and inclusion.
The event concluded with a call to action. Governments, civil society, and partners must work together. Building resilient systems will take time and commitment.
The summit showed Africa’s growing will to lead its own future. Food systems are central to health, economy, and dignity. Ethiopia is choosing a path of sovereignty, sustainability, and solidarity.