The Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNESA), Vera Songwene, called for greater cooperation with the region at the UN Food Systems Summit. 

The expectation is that there will be a "great debate about viable solutions for Food Systems around the world," contributing to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda, said Vera Songwe.

African countries want "participation that results in mobilizing support to implement Agenda 2063 priorities for the region's development," he added. 

It is hoped that the meeting, can support a "prosperous Africa, based on inclusive growth and sustainable development."  

For the UNECA representative, food security requires investment in research to improve food production, especially of nutritious foods.

Another regional challenge is to promote modern technologies, digitalization, and mechanization.

Songwe stressed the need for a common vision, strong political leadership, and effective cross-sector collaboration involving the private sector. According to her, it will contribute to transforming food systems into healthy diets. 

Abel Kagwanja, head of the Agriculture and Business Environment section, says the meeting represents an opportunity for Africans to jointly address issues related to climate change and food insecurity on the continent. 

According to Kagwanja, more than half of Africa's population does not have an adequate diet of nutrients. This is due to food systems that cannot produce food at affordable prices. 

The UN Food Systems meeting will be held virtually during the UN General Assembly that kicks off today in New York.

Source: UN News