By: Goshu Melisew
Despite Africa’s rich biodiversity and vast agricultural potential, hunger and malnutrition continue to affect millions across the continent. Climate change, land degradation, and dependency on imports and chemical-intensive farming have further exposed the vulnerabilities in Africa’s food systems.
In response, the Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa (AFSA) has called for a bold transformation one rooted in agroecology, indigenous knowledge, and farmer-led solutions. The call is grounded in the principle of food sovereignty: the right of communities to define their own food systems and protect indigenous seeds.
“Africa needs to transform its food system to secure food sovereignty,” said Million Belay, General Coordinator of AFSA.
This call was made during the opening of the African Chefs Gathering and Policy Convening on African Food Systems, held in Addis Ababa under the theme “My Food is African: Chefs and Changemakers Shaping Food Futures.” The event brought together chefs, policymakers, and grassroots leaders from across the continent to promote dialogue on food heritage, sustainability, and inclusive policy reform.
Representing the Government of Ethiopia, Hana Abebe, Chief of Staff and Special Advisor at the Ministry of Planning and Development, highlighted Ethiopia’s strong commitment to climate action and sustainable food systems. She cited national strategies such as the Climate Resilient Green Economy Strategy, the National Adaptation Plan, and the flagship Green Legacy Initiative, which seeks to restore degraded landscapes, create green jobs, and conserve biodiversity.
“We are investing in climate-smart agriculture, empowering smallholder farmers especially women and youth and promoting sustainable consumption. Our policies aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while supporting livelihoods,” she said.
Million Belay also emphasized the key role African chefs can play in championing indigenous foods and advancing food sovereignty, noting that culinary leaders are powerful agents of cultural preservation and food system change.
He commended Ethiopia’s efforts to align its food system with development goals, particularly through initiatives like the Green Legacy, which reflect the country’s growing commitment to environmental sustainability and local food systems.
The three-day event is expected to produce actionable recommendations for reshaping Africa’s food systems through agroecology, traditional knowledge, and inclusive governance.
