By Abu Hassan
Accra, Ghana – The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) commenced its 14th Regional Management Team meeting in Accra, Ghana, this week, bringing together over 150 leaders and technical experts from across the African continent and FAO headquarters. The three-day event aims to tackle the urgent issues shaping the future of Africa’s agri-food systems.
Under the theme “Partnership. Innovation. Action. Learning,” the meeting emphasizes the importance of strengthening collaborations, fostering innovation, scaling up impactful actions, and enhancing knowledge exchange within FAO’s activities in Africa. Discussions are aligned with FAO’s Strategic Framework 2022–31 and its “Four Betters” approach: better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life, leaving no one behind.
The meeting is particularly timely as Africa faces increasing food insecurity, the exacerbating effects of climate change, persistent economic pressures, and the need for evolving partnerships.
“Partnership, innovation, action, learning – these are deeply connected concepts,” said FAO Deputy Director-General Maurizio Martina during the opening ceremony. “As we mark 80 years of FAO, this event enhances our efforts to tackle food security and nutrition challenges globally.”
FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for Africa, Abebe Haile-Gabriel, challenged participants to build upon the momentum FAO has generated across the continent. He acknowledged the complex challenges facing the region, but also highlighted the significant progress made through stronger partnerships, increased resource mobilization, and growing regional influence. He specifically mentioned the expansion of the Hand-in-Hand Initiative to 37 African countries, reinforced collaboration with the African Union, and impactful knowledge leadership initiatives in areas such as digital agriculture, social protection, and sustainable trade.
The Deputy Minister of Food and Agriculture of Ghana, John Dumelo, underscored Ghana’s commitment to working with FAO. “Ghana is honored to serve as the host of the FAO Regional Office for Africa in our dynamic capital, Accra – a testament to the deep and enduring partnership between Ghana and FAO,” he stated. “Ghana is ready to walk side by side with FAO and all partners. Ready to lead and to learn. Ready to drive the transformation that will secure a resilient, inclusive, and prosperous agricultural future for our nation and for Africa.”
The 14th Regional Management Team meeting promises to be a crucial forum for collaboration and strategic planning as the FAO strengthens its efforts to support sustainable and resilient agri-food systems across Africa.
