Addis Ababa – The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and the African Union (AU) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration in agricultural development across Africa, building on the foundation of the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP).

In a high-level meeting held in Addis Ababa, stakeholders emphasized the importance of aligning regional and national efforts to accelerate progress in Africa’s agricultural sector and food security. The discussions focused on enhancing cooperation between regional institutions and national governments to support sustainable agricultural growth.

Daher Elmi, Director of Agriculture and Environment at IGAD, met with the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, to discuss priority actions needed to advance the agricultural agenda across the continent. The talks centered on the implementation of CAADP goals, particularly the Kampala Declaration endorsed in January 2024.

IGAD is also advancing a Regional Agricultural Investment Plan, which involves innovative financing mechanisms and project-based support tailored to the needs of IGAD member states. These efforts are aimed at strengthening national strategies for food security and agricultural productivity.

The newly adopted measures reflect Africa’s growing determination to achieve food sovereignty by utilizing its vast natural resources. This approach underscores a unified continental effort to reduce dependency on food imports and promote resilience through local solutions.