The just concluded 7th African Diaspora Agrofood Forum provided inspiration, knowledge, and collaborative potentials for participants and partners. The event brought together diverse stakeholders including development agencies, government officials, entrepreneurs, who are playing vital roles in shaping the future of African Diaspora Agrofood entrepreneurship ecosystem.

Reflecting on the discussions and shared expertise, we extend our thanks to all participants who contributed to the success of this forum. The discussions held at the forum further reinforced the need for a multistakeholder input in the agrofood sector, thus opening up opportunities for the African Diaspora entrepreneurs active in the sector. Moreover investing in the agrofood sector, not only boosts food security but  can also help drive economic growth, reduce poverty, and promote inclusive development in different countries. These keypoints were also noted in the contributions of the panelists from FAO, IOM, ENABEL and others.

The forum also highlighted the importance of creating an enabling environments for African diaspora entrepreneurs, to grant them access to financial support for their businesses. By having access to funds,more entrepreneurs will be empowered  to scale their operations, thereby contributing to the growth of the agricultural sector. 

Participants at the ADAF23 also recognized the importance of having access to local, regional, and international markets for African produce. Creating these avenues for profitable  trade can enormously boost the income of entrepreneurs. if the major challenges creating barriers to market entry are removed, it will pave the way for sustainable growth and economic empowerment.

The  participants of the 7th African Diaspora Agrofood Forum, have the collective responsibility to bring the positive change needed  in Africa's agrofood sector, which is the key to achieving the SDGs. The insights, commitments, and collaborative spirit  showed during the forum, provides a solid foundation to build future partnerships. Together, we have the power to change the narrative about the African Diaspora entrepreneurship ecosystem. 

A full report of the event will be published soon. 

Here are links to other publications about the event - https://ethiopianembassy.be/the-embassy-partakes-in-the-7th-africa-diaspora-agro-food-forum-exhibition/

 https://paepard.blogspot.com/2023/10/7th-african-diaspora-agrofood-forum.html

For many African nations achieving the Sustainable Development Goals especially number 2 ,Zero Hunger, is still a major challenge. Thus a multi- stakeholder approach is needed to address this and other development challenges in Africa. For the 2023 African Diaspora Agrofood Forum, we will start the opening session with a panel focusing on policymaking and diaspora Engagement. The aim is to highlight the importance of having the right policies and the role of policymakers in facilitating the input of African dasporas in the development of Africa. 

This will be an informative, inspirational and interactive opening session of the 2023 African Diaspora Agrofood forum. Among the panelists of this opening session are ;

As part of this opening session , Mr Ralph Genetzke, Director at International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) Brussels, will also present the 2023 Compendium Of African Diaspora Agrofood Entrepreneurs, published by the Food Bridge in partnership with EUDIF, a program of ICMPD.

Registration is still open via - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/7th-african-diaspora-agrofood-forum-tickets-662976680097