Global Panel side event at the African Food Systems Forum 2024

The Global Panel on Agriculture and Food Systems for Nutrition convened a side event Gender Responsive Approaches Driving Food Transformation with partners African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD), CABI and the Global Solutions Initiative at the AFS Forum 2024 on September 2 in Kigali to highlight the critical need for gender-sensitive strategies to accelerate food systems transformation, especially in the light of climate change and the digital age.  

The session focused on the importance of addressing women’s roles in food systems, their access to innovation, climate resilience, and decision-making processes as persistent socio-cultural, economic, and political barriers continue to widen the gender gap despite numerous political commitments. 

Evidence from FAO suggests that closing the gender gap in agriculture could contribute nearly USD 1 trillion to the global economy and reduce the risk of food insecurity for 45 million people. The session presented best practices, strategies, and policy frameworks that foster women’s meaningful engagement in food systems while addressing current gaps in gender equity and inclusiveness. 

As the Chief of Economic Empowerment at UN Women, Dr Jemimah Njuki framed a scene-setting keynote, framing the discussion on gender-responsive approaches in food system transformation. This followed the Panel discussion which was moderated by Dorine Odongo, Senior Manager of Communications at AWARD, and Mr. Deogratius J. Magero, Youth Engagement Manager at CABI. 

The Panel discussions spotlighted lessons and strategies from speakers, including Dr Edidah Ampaire, Senior Programs Specialist at IDRC, Dr. Monica Kansiime, Deputy Director of Development and Outreach Africa at CABI, Dr Susan Kaaria, the Director of AWARD, Prof Amos Laar, Professor of Public Health Nutrition at the University of Ghana, Dr Patrick Kormawa, Director of the Climate Change and Food Security, Office of the President, Government of Sierra Leone, and Ms Nana Amoah, the Director of Gender, Youth and Inclusion at AGRA. Key topics included policy priorities for food systems, women’s leadership, and fostering sustainable access to resources. 

Overall the side event successfully highlighted the critical role of gender-responsive policies in driving food transformation. It showcased the value of inclusive approaches and the need for strategic investments to close the gender gap in agrifood systems. By fostering women’s leadership and ensuring equitable access to resources, food systems transformation can be accelerated, ultimately contributing to global food security, economic growth and improved nutrition.