Senegal to Host AFS Forum 2025: A Catalyst for Transforming African Food Systems

The Africa Food Systems Forum (AFS Forum) is on the verge of embarking on an exciting and transformative journey as Senegal gears up to host the AFS Forum 2025. This event is poised to be a pivotal moment, addressing some of the most critical and pressing issues currently facing the agricultural and food systems across the continent of Africa. 

Central to this forum is a commitment to enabling country Legacy Programs, which aim to implement sustainable practices and policies that will bolster food security, enhance nutrition, and stimulate economic growth in African nations. Furthermore, the summit will place a strong emphasis on promoting the growth of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) within the food sector. Recognizing the vital role that these enterprises play in local economies, the forum aims to provide them with the necessary support, resources, and networks to thrive and innovate.

In addition to these focuses, fostering strategic partnerships will be another key element of the summit. The collaboration between various stakeholders—governments, the private sector, civil society, and international organizations—will be crucial to driving investments that can lead to significant advancements in Africa’s agrarian agenda. This collaborative approach is not only intended to deliver immediate results but also to lay the groundwork for long-term sustainable development in the food systems of the continent.

As the AFS Forum 2025 approaches, anticipation is building around its potential to generate actionable insights and foster meaningful dialogue. The forum will ultimately work towards improving food systems that are resilient, inclusive, and equipped to meet the challenges of the future.

A Platform for Diverse Stakeholders.

The AFS Forum 2025 will bring together top government officials, private sector players, academic representatives, and civil society organizations. This varied assembly is designed to promote impactful discussions focused on developing resilient food systems in Africa. The summit seeks to foster a cooperative atmosphere where innovative solutions can thrive by uniting diverse voices and viewpoints.

Senegal's Ministry of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty, and Livestock is dedicated to making the AFS Forum 2025 impactful through a collaborative effort with the AFSF Secretariat and various partners. This partnership aims to create meaningful outcomes that will enhance food security and agricultural sustainability in Senegal and beyond.

About the AFS Forum

The Africa Food Systems Forum is the largest worldwide platform dedicated to agriculture and food systems. Its goal is to bring together stakeholders—such as policymakers, farmers, youth, women, and researchers—to implement actionable solutions and exchange essential insights that will drive the transformation of Africa’s food systems.

Key Objectives of the AFS Forum

The primary goals of the AFS Forum include:

Agenda Setting: Identifying critical agricultural issues that demand immediate focus and action.

Evidence-Based Policy Reform: Implementing reforms grounded in solid data to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability.

Investment Facilitation: Encouraging investments in agriculture to back innovative projects and initiatives.

Knowledge Exchange and Learning: Promoting the sharing of best practices and effective strategies throughout the continent.

Partnership Development and Coordination: Establishing robust networks and collaborations across different sectors to amplify collective impact.

Launched in 2010, the AFS Forum has become an essential annual gathering platform, offering investment facilities (deal rooms) and technical support via its thematic platforms.

Expanding Focus and Scope

Demonstrating its dedication to a comprehensive food systems strategy, the AFS Forum has completely rebranded to highlight aspects such as agricultural production, nutrition, inclusion of gender and youth, climate resilience, market dynamics, trade, infrastructure, and energy. This holistic approach seeks to activate private sector involvement and improve government accountability and reporting.

Looking Ahead to AFS Forum 2025

As the AFS Forum 2025 preparations intensify, stakeholders are hopeful about the partnerships and investments that may arise from the summit. Senegal is set to become a leader in agricultural transformation by tackling key issues and promoting collaboration among various participants.

The forum will offer a vital platform for attendees to engage with the continental agenda, capitalize on investment opportunities, share knowledge, and develop robust partnerships. The impact of the AFS Forum 2025 is expected to last well beyond the event, establishing a foundation for ongoing efforts to transform food systems across Africa.