Rwanda to Host Africa Food Systems Forum 2024, Focus on Innovation and Youth

News in Brief: - The annual Africa Food Systems Forum 2024 will be held in the Rwandan capital of Kigali. - It will spotlight innovation, youth engagement, and widespread adoption of solutions to achieve food security in Africa. Rwanda will be the host of the 2024 Africa Food Systems Forum (AFS Forum), according to a statement obtained by the press. The forum is a major annual event focused on transforming African agriculture and food systems. Rwandan Prime Minister, Dr Èdouard Ngirente officially launched the summit. He stated that embracing innovation and making policies based on evidence are crucial in transforming the agricultural sector into a 'powerful engine for economic development.' The event is themed 'Innovate, Accelerate and Scale: Delivering food systems transformation in a digital and climate era,' and it will stress the need for radical changes to ensure food security, while empowering African communities. Additionally, the forum will highlight advancements in policy, financing, research, and business models to drive food system transformation. Technological solutions for climate change adaptation, managing food loss, and bridging the digital divide will also be showcased. Furthermore, Ngirente reiterated the crucial role of youth in achieving a sustainable and prosperous food system. The forum aims to connect young innovators with investors and policymakers to unlock financial opportunities for youth-led businesses. High-level participation from government officials, business leaders, and farmers is expected to facilitate these connections. The AFS Forum is a leading platform dedicated to African agriculture. It brings together stakeholders for knowledge sharing and collaborative action. It also prioritises placing farmers at the center of Africa's economic growth strategy. The forum will take place from September 2nd to 6th, 2024, in Kigali, Rwanda. An estimated 5,000 delegates from across the food system ecosystem are expected to participate.