The African Seed Summit has opened in Eswatini, with leaders calling for stronger investment and action to build resilient seed systems across the continent….reports Africa Daily News Desk
The African Seed Summit opened in the Kingdom of Eswatini on October 6, bringing together African Union leadership, the Eswatini government and key stakeholders to discuss strengthening the continent’s seed systems and improving food security.
Representing African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, AU Deputy Chairperson Ambassador Selma Malika Haddadi attended the opening ceremony, which was also graced by King Mswati III. The ceremony took place ahead of the summit’s ministerial session.
Held under the theme “Resilient Seed Systems for a Food-Secure Africa,” the summit is focused on increasing engagement and investment in Africa’s seed sector.
The African Union said the meeting reflects its commitment, in line with a decision of the AU Executive Council, to strengthening the continent’s seed systems as a foundation for more resilient agricultural production.
The summit highlighted the importance of quality seeds in improving agricultural productivity and supporting food security across Africa.
Discussions are expected to focus on the need for sustained investment, innovation and stronger institutions to develop more resilient and productive agricultural systems.
The AU stressed that policy commitments must be translated into practical action, particularly by ensuring farmers have access to quality seed.
It said progress should be assessed not only through commitments made by governments and institutions, but also through their impact on farmers, livelihoods and communities.
The summit provides a platform for African countries and other stakeholders to renew their commitment to developing resilient seed systems and to identify concrete measures to strengthen the sector.
The AU said the focus should be on turning commitments into investments and measurable results that can directly benefit farmers and strengthen agricultural resilience across the continent.
The meeting comes as African countries continue to seek ways to strengthen domestic agricultural production and reduce vulnerabilities in food systems.
The summit’s theme places seed systems at the centre of these efforts, highlighting the role of access to quality seed in building productive and sustainable agriculture.
The gathering in Eswatini brings together policymakers and other stakeholders to discuss how greater investment and improved implementation can support farmers and contribute to a more food-secure Africa.
