The Gabonese government has officially endorsed the candidacy of Josefa Leonel Correia Sacko for the position of Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). This decision was made during a Council of Ministers meeting held in Port-Gentil, the capital of Gabon's Ogooué-Maritime province. Sacko, who is currently the Commissioner for Rural Economy and Agriculture at the African Union Commission, was nominated by the Republic of Angola for the FAO's top position.
Josefa Leonel Correia Sacko brings extensive experience to her candidacy, having served as Special Advisor to the Angolan Minister of Agriculture on international cooperation. She has also held the position of Secretary-General of the Inter-African Coffee Organization (IAC) in Côte d'Ivoire for 13 years, overseeing the coffee economy of 25 African producing countries. Her expertise in agriculture and rural economy will likely be valuable assets in her bid to lead the FAO.
Sacko's vision for the FAO is centered on leveraging Africa's experience, innovation, and resilience to address global food security challenges. According to the Angolan Press Agency, she aims to provide solutions that draw on the continent's unique strengths. As the FAO prepares for the election of its new Director-General in July 2027, Sacko's candidacy has garnered support from Gabon, a key player in Central African affairs.
The election for the FAO's Director-General will take place in Rome, Italy, in July 2027, as part of the organization's leadership renewal process. The current Director-General, Qu Dongyu of China, is set to complete his second four-year term in 2027. The FAO is a critical global institution focused on defeating hunger and improving agricultural productivity.
As Commissioner for Rural Economy and Agriculture at the African Union Commission, Sacko has been instrumental in shaping the continent's agricultural policies. Her candidacy is seen as a strong bid to lead the FAO, given her deep understanding of African agriculture and her experience in international cooperation.
Gabon's support for Sacko's candidacy underscores the country's commitment to strengthening international partnerships in agriculture and food security. By backing her bid, Gabon aims to contribute to the development of effective solutions to global hunger and malnutrition.
The FAO's Director-General plays a crucial role in shaping global food security policies and strategies. As the organization prepares for new leadership, Sacko's candidacy, supported by Gabon and Angola, will likely be a significant contender in the election.
Key points
- Josefa Leonel Correia Sacko, Commissioner for Rural Economy and Agriculture at the African Union Commission, has been endorsed by Gabon for the position of FAO Director-General.
- Sacko aims to leverage Africa's experience, innovation, and resilience to address global food security challenges if elected as FAO Director-General.
- The election for the FAO's Director-General is scheduled to take place in Rome, Italy, in July 2027.
