KAMPALA, Uganda – January 9, 2025: The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Executive Secretary, H.E. Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, leads a top-level delegation at the African Union’s (AU) Extraordinary Summit on the Post-Malabo Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP). The summit, running from January 9–11, 2025, focuses on charting Africa’s agrifood systems agenda for 2026–2035.
Under the theme “Advancing Inclusive Agrifood Systems Transformation for Sustainable Economic Growth and Shared Prosperity,” the summit brings together African heads of state, regional economic communities, and global development partners. Key outcomes expected include the adoption of the Kampala CAADP Declaration and the Ten-Year CAADP Strategy and Action Plan (2026–2035) to guide agricultural development across the continent.
IGAD’s Vision for Resilient Food Systems
Dr. Workneh’s participation reaffirms IGAD’s strategic focus on regional food security, climate resilience, and sustainable agriculture. Discussions will address improving agricultural productivity, mitigating climate change effects, and enhancing cross-border cooperation. IGAD will align its regional priorities with CAADP’s renewed vision, aiming to build resilient livelihoods and ensure sustainable food systems for its member states.
Summit Highlights
- Statements by African Union leaders and the AU Commission Chairperson.
- Review and endorsement of the Kampala Declaration and Ten-Year CAADP Action Plan.
- Plans to establish Centres of Excellence for Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Biodiversity.
- Inclusion of non-state actors, youth, women, and academia in shaping the future of African agriculture.
Towards a Bold Future for Africa
The summit marks a critical juncture as Africa pivots from the 2014–2025 Malabo era, where many goals, including the 6% annual agricultural growth rate, remain unmet. By embracing a new, inclusive strategy, the continent can accelerate sustainable agrifood transformation.
With a commitment to regional integration and sustainable development, IGAD seeks to harness this historic moment, working in unity with AU partners to unlock Africa’s agricultural potential for economic prosperity and shared resilience.
