Dakar, Senegal will host the highly anticipated Africa Food Systems Forum (AFS Forum) this August, marking a major milestone in the continent’s agricultural transformation. Under the theme “Africa’s Youth: Leading Collaboration, Innovation, and Implementation of Africa’s Food Systems Transformation,” the summit will spotlight the role of young Africans in reshaping the future of food and agriculture.
The summit is expected to draw Heads of State, Ministers, investors, youth and women agripreneurs, researchers, donors, and other stakeholders from over 90 countries. It is being hailed as Africa’s most significant agriculture and food systems event of the year.
Making the announcement, Senegal’s Minister of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty and Livestock, Dr. Mabouba Diagne, emphasized the country’s commitment to placing young people at the forefront of food systems innovation.
“With nearly 60 percent of Africa’s population under 25, youth are the most potent force shaping the continent’s future,” Dr. Diagne said. “Senegal is honoured to convene Africa’s most influential agriculture leaders and hopes this year’s Forum will shape policy, investment, and innovation. We welcome the world to Dakar and reinforce our belief that Africa can achieve food resilience and sustainable systems.”
Senegal’s selection as host underscores its growing leadership in regional food security. As a Sahel nation, the country has made significant strides in investing in resilient farming systems, irrigation, and storage infrastructure. Agriculture remains a critical part of Senegal’s economy, employing nearly 69 percent of the labour force and contributing around 17 percent to the GDP.
The 2025 AFS Forum will be a platform for forging cross-sector partnerships, aligning policies, and boosting access to resources for youth-led agricultural ventures. Key institutions such as the African Union, UN agencies, and major development organizations will participate, alongside representatives from academia, NGOs, the private sector, and farming communities.
By amplifying youth voices and innovations, the summit aims to drive a new era of inclusive and sustainable food systems across Africa. Dakar is poised to become a hub of transformative dialogue and action this August, setting the tone for the continent’s agricultural future.
