Reaffirming commitments and strengthening relations: ACF 4th members meeting in Baku

The Alliance of Champions for Food Systems Transformation (ACF) convened its fourth in-person meeting on Sunday, November 17, in Baku, bringing together representatives from four of the five member countries, along with ACF Secretariat members from CGIAR and FOLU. Sir David Nabarro also joined the meeting, where participants reviewed progress, defined future priorities, and strategized outreach to additional countries.

Building on the momentum of COP29, the meeting marked a reflective milestone for the Alliance's inaugural year. Members acknowledged the ACF's critical role in supporting national food systems transformation efforts, highlighting its success in enhancing visibility, fostering open dialogue on shared challenges, and facilitating collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Dr. Kaindeh Yumkella, Chairman of Sierra Leone's Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy, and Food Security, chaired the session. He urged members to craft a compelling global food systems narrative and shared insights into Sierra Leone's "Feed Salone" strategy. This initiative aims to bolster local food production sustainably by incentivizing agricultural investments, reducing food imports, and empowering smallholder farmers, especially women and youth.

Paul Gulleik Larsen, Norway's Ambassador and Special Envoy for Food Security, drew attention to the synergies between the ACF and Brazil's G20-proposed Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty. Meanwhile, Sir David Nabarro, Director of 4SD, emphasized the ACF's catalytic potential to unite champions and engage diverse stakeholders in advancing collective action.

Country representatives shared their national priorities and progress. Dr. Silo of Cambodia outlined the integration of green growth principles with food security and nutrition and emphasized investments in development research. Dr. Alexandre Rutikanga from Rwanda detailed the country's commitment to mainstreaming food systems transformation through its 10 Action Areas, spotlighting the RICA Seed Centre as a model for building farm resilience and enhancing productivity by strengthening local seed companies.

As the Alliance evolves, it remains dedicated to fostering a global movement for sustainable, equitable, and resilient food systems. By amplifying shared experiences, leveraging technical expertise, and advocating for transformative policy changes, the ACF continues to inspire and empower nations to achieve a food-secure future for people, nature, and the climate.