IGAD Launches Program to Strengthen Food Systems in East Africa

The Inter-governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has embarked on the first phase of the Food Systems Resilience Program for Eastern and Southern Africa. This initiative aims to combat the adverse effects of climate change, locust infestation, and the Covid-19 pandemic.

Mohyeldeen EltohamiTaha, the Head of Agriculture and Food Security at IGAD, emphasized the necessity of innovative approaches to address the region’s escalating climate challenges at the program’s launch event. The focus of the program lies in enhancing agricultural production resilience, sustainable land use, natural resource management, and fostering efficient policymaking and market systems.

During the launch, JosefaSacko, the African Union Commissioner for Rural Economy and Agriculture, underscored the program’s potential in addressing chronic food insecurity, exacerbated by the mounting impact of climate change and socio-economic obstacles in both Eastern and Southern Africa. She emphasized the significance of poverty reduction and food security initiatives like the IGAD’s food system resilience program as crucial components of the solution.

The inaugural event welcomed high-ranking officials from Southern and Eastern African nations, who engaged in discussions concerning the prevailing challenges and opportunities in fortifying food systems resilience. Notably, the World Bank has pledged a substantial $25 million in support over the seven-year project implementation period, as reported by IGAD.

With a population exceeding 230 million, the IGAD region grapples with acute food insecurity. The program’s launch serves as a pivotal step towards mitigating this pressing issue.

By Staff Reporter

The Ethiopian Herald – Tuesday 6 February 2024