In all our years of organizing the African Diaspora Agrofood Forum, never have we witnessed such instant and dynamic connections among participants as in this 8th edition. The event not only fostered meaningful collaborations but also spurred initiatives that exemplify the power of like-minded individuals coming together.

We extend our deepest gratitude to all attendees for their active engagement. Your enthusiasm, particularly during the breakout discussions on the three top priorities for Africa’s agrofood sector, made the event truly impactful. These discussions underscored the immense potential of the African diaspora to shape and transform the agrofood sector.

Your contributions highlighted the pivotal role of diasporas as catalysts for development—preserving and promoting indigenous food systems for the benefit of African communities while creating immense opportunities for innovation and growth.

Key Highlights from the Forum
This year’s forum tackled critical topics, including:

• Policy planning with sustainability at its core: Exploring strategies to ensure a resilient and inclusive agrofood future.
• Pathways to accessing support and partnerships: Identifying key components for entrepreneurial success and long-term impact.

A resounding message emerged from all discussions: despite challenges, African diaspora entrepreneurs must remain focused on their goals. By fostering collaborative partnerships, they can unlock new opportunities, build resilient networks, and drive impactful growth not just in Africa but also in their places of residence.

Side Activities That Made an Impact
The two days of side activities enriched the forum’s program, offering participants deeper insights and practical tools:

1. EU Global Diaspora Facility (EUDiF): An interactive info session on developing strong project applications.
2. ENABEL’s PEM Nzassa Program: This initiative in Côte d’Ivoire strengthens entrepreneurial ecosystems by linking Ivorian entrepreneurs with Belgian counterparts, including the diaspora.
3. Vyakuani Africa Project: Highlighting the need for more diaspora collaboration in documenting African food culture and legacy in Belgium.
4. Nourishing Roots Project: A discussion on African diaspora climate action, which will continue with a panel on November 28, 2024, at Soliris.be.
5. Mushroom Cultivation Workshop: Led by the inspirational Chido Govera, this hands-on session introduced participants to the role of mushroom farming in food security and economic development. The enthusiasm was palpable, and a dedicated WhatsApp group was created to keep the momentum alive.

Looking Ahead
As we set our sights on the 2025 edition, we are inspired by the passion and commitment of this community. Together, we will continue driving meaningful change, fostering growth, and building a thriving agrofood ecosystem.

Thank you once again for your dedication and energy. Let’s keep the momentum going!