The 19th edition of the Africa Food Systems Forum (AFSF), slated for August 19-23, 2025, in Dakar, Senegal, is poised to be a pivotal event in shaping the future of food security on the continent. Over 6,000 global leaders, representing a diverse spectrum of stakeholders from heads of state and ministers to investors, agripreneurs, researchers, and development partners, are expected to converge at the Dakar International Conference Centre. The forum, hosted by the Senegalese Ministry of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty, and Livestock, is recognized as the world’s largest gathering focused on agriculture and food systems, and this year’s theme, “Africa’s Youth: Leading Collaboration, Innovation, and Implementation of Africa’s Food Systems Transformation,” underscores the crucial role of young people in driving the continent’s agricultural agenda.
The timing of the forum is particularly significant, as Africa grapples with a complex web of challenges, including the escalating impacts of climate change, persistent infrastructure deficits, the pressing need for job creation, and the ongoing pursuit of resilient food systems. Dr. Mabouba Diagne, Senegal’s Minister of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty, and Livestock, emphasized the importance of youth engagement, noting that with nearly 60% of Africa’s population under the age of 25, they represent the most powerful force shaping the continent’s trajectory. Senegal’s hosting of the forum underscores its commitment to regional leadership in food systems transformation, and the event is anticipated to serve as a catalyst for shaping policy, attracting investment, and fostering innovation in the agricultural sector.
The forum’s expansive reach is evident in the anticipated participation of delegates from over 90 countries, encompassing representatives from the African Union, various United Nations agencies, and prominent development institutions. This diverse assembly will bring together leaders from government, the private sector, academia, non-governmental organizations, media outlets, youth networks, women’s groups, and farming communities, creating a dynamic platform for cross-sector collaboration and knowledge sharing. Amath Pathe, Managing Director of the AFSF, emphasized the forum’s commitment to empowering young people and women as leaders and co-creators in Africa’s food transformation journey. The forum aims to amplify the voices of 6,000 participants from around the globe, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas and collaborative efforts to build a sustainable future for food systems.
Senegal’s selection as the host nation reflects its significant contributions to agricultural development. With agriculture employing nearly 69% of the labor force and contributing approximately 17% to the country’s GDP, Senegal has made substantial investments in irrigation infrastructure, storage facilities, and climate-resilient farming practices. These investments underscore the nation’s dedication to enhancing agricultural productivity and building resilience against environmental challenges. Hosting the AFSF further solidifies Senegal’s position as a regional leader in agricultural transformation.
To ensure the seamless execution of this large-scale event, comprehensive arrangements have been meticulously planned, encompassing robust security protocols, streamlined visa facilitation processes, multilingual interpretation services, and comprehensive logistical support. These measures are designed to facilitate productive engagement among participants and create an environment conducive to achieving the forum’s ambitious goals.
The Africa Food Systems Forum is structured to facilitate high-level discussions, promote knowledge exchange, and develop practical action plans aimed at creating sustainable food systems that can effectively nourish the continent’s growing population. The forum will provide a platform for sharing best practices, showcasing innovative solutions, and forging partnerships that can accelerate the transformation of Africa’s food systems. By bringing together a diverse array of stakeholders, the AFSF aims to generate concrete outcomes that will contribute to enhanced food security, improved livelihoods, and a more resilient and prosperous future for Africa. The focus on youth engagement, coupled with a commitment to inclusive participation, positions the forum as a crucial stepping stone towards achieving sustainable and equitable food systems across the continent.
