All Protocols Observed;

It is with the greatest pleasure and honor and on behalf of all member states of the Union that I proceed to introduce the theme of the year; that will focus on the extremely important subject of nutrition. Let me begin by first recognizing and commending President of Republic H.E. Alassane Ouattara, President of the Republic of Cote Ivoire for the proposal that nutrition is endorsed, as the theme of the African Union for 2022.

The commemoration of 2022 as the year of nutrition, is welcome given that the Assembly of the Union has been seized with the subject of nutrition since the days of its parent organization the OAU. The progress that has been over the years in addressing malnutrition and improving food security across the continent is duly recognized. Further the exceptional leadership of His Majesty King Letsie III of the Kingdom of Lesotho, and AU Champion for that has kept nutrition high on the policy agenda of member states.

The decision of the Assembly on the choice of nutrition, as the theme of the year is taking place in a difficult context as member states remain challenged by the COVID-19 Pandemic that is affecting our populations and their livelihoods, especially in the areas of nutrition and food security. 

AU theme of year for 2022 aims to maintain a strong political momentum on nutrition across the African continent. It is a unique opportunity to strengthen continental commitment to end malnutrition in all its forms and to further improve food and security through the implementation of Malabo Commitments and the goals and objectives of the Africa Regional Nutrition Strategy (2016-2025).

Human capital is key for development as it leads to improved lives for individuals, higher earnings and improved incomes for countries. On behalf of the African Union, let me reiterate our commitment to promote, human capital development in line with all the aspirations of agenda 2063.

This is a great opportunity for all the stakeholders including all Member States, Regional Economic Communities, Civil Society Organizations: the private sectors, UN and partners, to use the opportunity, to secure greater political commitment and investment in nutrition and to address the ongoing nutrition and food security challenges.

Let me take this opportunity to recognize the good work of the Commission in preparation of the theme of the year for 2022 and also the great partnership and collaboration with all stakeholders, especially the Africa

Development Bank that has made significant investments through the Africa Leaders Initiative in support of the continents policy agenda on nutrition and food security. It is my hope that all stakeholders and partners shall be sustained during the implementation of the roadmap for theme during 2022 and beyond.

I therefore humbly invite our leaders to launch the African Union theme for 2022 as “Strengthening Resilience in Nutrition and Food Security on The African Continent: Strengthening Agro-Food Systems, Health and Social Protection Systems for the Acceleration of Human, Social and Economic Capital Development”;

I thank you