The conference, which took place over five days, brought together ten African networks engaged in promoting agroecology. The event aimed to strengthen cooperation among networks and explore new perspectives for collaboration. Participants discussed ways to promote agroecology as a means to achieve food sovereignty and reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. The conference was attended by representatives from 23 countries in Africa and America.
Mamadou Danfakha, coordinator of the pan-African movement "Nous sommes la solution" and program officer at Fahamu Africa, expressed satisfaction with the discussions held during the conference. He emphasized the need for networks to work together and coordinate their actions in support of agroecology. Danfakha highlighted the importance of organizing a continental fair to promote agroecological products and practices. The fair aims to create a platform for producers to showcase their products and share experiences.
The proposed African fair on agroecology is expected to feature exhibition spaces for organic products grown without chemical treatments. The event aims to popularize agroecology and demonstrate its potential as a solution to food sovereignty challenges. Danfakha stressed that the fair will help raise awareness among decision-makers about the benefits of agroecology. The initiative is seen as a way to promote sustainable agriculture practices and reduce reliance on synthetic fertilizers.
Mamadou Goïta, executive director of the Institute for Research and Promotion of Alternative Development in Mali, welcomed the emergence of a permanent cooperation and collective learning space. He believes that the conference marks the beginning of a dynamic process that will facilitate the convergence of ideas, sharing of experiences, and collaboration among networks. Goïta emphasized the importance of supporting initiatives already underway in various countries and regions.
The conference in Niaguis has sparked optimism about the potential for agroecology to address food security challenges in Africa. Participants are committed to working together to promote sustainable agriculture practices and increase the visibility of agroecological products. The proposed African fair is seen as a key step towards achieving these goals. The event is expected to bring together producers, policymakers, and other stakeholders to discuss the future of agroecology in Africa.
Agroecology is gaining recognition as a vital component of sustainable agriculture and food systems. The practice involves using natural methods to control pests and diseases, rather than relying on chemical pesticides and fertilizers. Proponents of agroecology argue that it can help reduce environmental degradation, improve soil health, and promote biodiversity. The Senegal conference highlights the growing interest in agroecology as a solution to food security and environmental challenges.
The organizers of the conference plan to build on the momentum generated during the event. The proposed African fair on agroecology is expected to take place in the near future, although a specific date has not been announced. In the meantime, participants will work to strengthen their networks and coordinate their efforts in support of agroecology. The goal is to create a more robust and effective movement for sustainable agriculture practices in Africa.
Key points
- The conference in Senegal aims to promote agroecology as a means to achieve food sovereignty and reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
