Your Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of the Republic of Uganda,
Your Excellency Joao Manuel Lourenco, President of the Republic of Angola and Vice Chair of the African Union,
Excellences, Heads of State and Government,
Your Excellency Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission,
Your Excellency Hailemariam Dessalegn, Former Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and AGRA Board Chair,
Distinguished Colleagues, Esteemed guests,
Ladies and gentlemen,
I am deeply grateful to the government and people of Uganda for the warm hospitality extended to us since our arrival in this beautiful country and breathtaking resort. Hosting this Extra-Ordinary Summit reflects Uganda’s steadfast commitment to advancing Africa's agrifood systems; and we are truly honored by such generosity and support.
It is indeed a distinct honor to address this august Assembly on behalf of H.E Dr. Abiy Ahmed, Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and Champion of the Comprehensive African Agriculture Development Program (CAADP). I stand before you, today, to call upon the urgent need for a renewed collective commitment and concerted action to achieve our shared vision for an African that is food-sovereign and prosperous.
This summit marks a defining moment for Africa where we will be able to chart out the course of the continent’s agrifood systems. The Kampala CAADP Declaration, which follows the crucial Malabo Declaration; signifies a renewed commitment to best propel progress and delivering tangible outcomes for our people. It underscores our resolve to address emerging challenges, harness new opportunities, and build a resilient, inclusive and prosperous agri-food systems in Africa.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
As we discussed post Malabo CAADP Strategy, Africa’s agrifood systems are undergoing transformative changes driven by a complex interplay of economic, demographic, technological, environmental and climate factors. Over the next decade, understanding these dynamics will be crucial for stakeholders. I would, therefore, like to emphasize on the following four essential elements which I believe would transform our agrifood system, fostering economic growth and improving livelihoods across the continent;
First, rapid urbanization: The impact of urbanization in Africa particularly the growing demand for freshly processed foods and ready-to-eat meals significantly reshapes consumption patterns in urban areas. This shift creates vital linkages between small-holder farmers and expanding domestic markets, driven by sustained economic growth and a growing middle class. Nonetheless, we have to know that in view of Africa's rapid population growth, meeting the increasing demand for diverse and high-quality food products will present challenges.
Secondly, the huge potential of technological innovation such as digital agriculture, precision farming, and other advancements are pivotal to transform our agrifood systems. These technologies can enhance productivity, improve efficiency, and increase access to information and markets for farmers. This indeed is attainable as Rwanda effectively employed Digital Soil Mapping and used drones to monitoring crop health and assessing damage from pests and diseases. Though few in number, African countries such as Egypt and Morrocco have also improved traceability of agricultural products, ensuring food safety, and improving supply chain efficiency. Ethiopia’s collaboration with the African Development Bank brought forth climate-smart and heat-resistant wheat varieties; making the country as one of the leading wheat producers in Africa.
Thirdly, empowering women and engaging the youth will unlock the full potential of the sector as they are the drivers of innovation and resilience in our food systems. Angola and Uganda recognize the crucial role of women and the youth in transforming its agriculture particularly in expanding access to resources, developing agribusiness incubators, mentorship programs, and enhancing market linkages.
Fourth, fostering regional policies such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is essential for expanding market access, improving food security, and creating more resilient food systems across the continent. Ghana's achievement in reducing poverty by half through agriculture by 2025 serves as an inspiring example of the transformative potential of improved food security. The full realization of the African Continental Free Trade Area promises to amplify the success of many African countries who are determined to be on track in building a resilient system in food security.
Excellencies,
This Summit is the culmination of an inclusive and collaborative process that has brought together a diverse range of key players and stakeholders. Continental and Regional bodies such as the African Union Commission, AUDA-NEPAD and Regional Economic Communities (RECs) have played crucial role in facilitating cross-border collaboration and monitoring progress towards the CAADP goals. Moreover, through extensive consultations and workshops with Member States and development partners, we have ensured that all key actors have meaningfully contributed. This participatory approach underscores our collective commitment to addressing Africa’s agrifood challenges and opportunities through a lens of inclusivity and shared responsibility. Incorporating these diverse perspectives has enriched the Summit's discussions and strengthened the foundation for actionable outcomes.
The technical groundwork for this Summit has been equally rigorous and comprehensive. The draft CAADP Strategy and Action Plan for 2026 to 2035 was prepared with meticulous attention, guided by the African Union Specialized Technical Committee, whose endorsement has been invaluable. Contributions from experts and researchers have provided critical, evidence-based insights that ensure the Strategy is both impactful and achievable. These efforts highlight the importance of leveraging technical expertise to build robust frameworks for Africa’s agrifood systems transformation.
I call on the Permanent Representatives’ Committee (PRC) to actively engage in reviewing the CAADP Kampala Declaration and the 10-year Strategy and Action Plan. As an advisory body to the Executive Council, the PRC holds a critical responsibility to ensure these frameworks address Africa’s priorities for sustainable agrifood systems and align with the aspirations of Member States.
Excellencies;
The African basket, whether we call Ekibbo or Ekisero here in Uganda, or Agbo in Nigeria, or Kenten in Ghana, Kikapu in Swahili, or Sala in Northern Africa, or Lemat in Ethiopia; the African basket, a powerful symbol of bountiful harvests, embodies the heart of Africa’s livelihoods and our food system. As we embark on the transformative journey towards a modern agri-food system, let this African basket symbolize our unwavering commitment to ensuring that every African has access to safe, nutritious, and affordable food.
As I conclude, let us reaffirm the significance of this Summit and the Kampala Declaration in guiding our journey toward sustainable agricultural transformation.
I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the African Union Specialized Technical Committee, led by its Chair, Hon. Frank Tumwebaze and the AU Commissioner, Amb. Josefa Sacko for their exceptional efforts in leading the development of the CAADP Kampala Declaration, Strategy, and Action Plan (2026-2035). Together, let us move forward with determination and purpose, committed to realizing our shared vision for Africa’s agrifood systems.
I Thank you!
