Africa CSID’s Role in Advancing Agroecological Transitions Through the Africa Food Systems Transformation Collective (AFSTC)

Nine months ago, Africa CSID officially joined the Africa Food Systems Transformation Collective (AFSTC) as a member of its Advisory Council. Read more here. AFSTC is a network of food systems researchers and practitioners from across Africa dedicated to promoting agroecological transitions.

Last month, our Executive Director, Ms. Salome Owuonda, represented Africa CSID at AFSTC’s inaugural in-person stakeholder meeting in Kigali, Rwanda. The event was hosted by the Rwanda Organic Agriculture Movement (ROAM) and supported by various partners including Africa Climate Foundation.

The meeting brought together experienced researchers, the 10 Advisory Committee members, farmers, and philanthropists from across the globe. It provided a platform for participants to share insights, reflect on real-world food systems challenges, and collaboratively develop academic, practitioner, and philanthropist-focused policy briefs. The meeting also outlined strategic directions for AFSTC’s future prospects.

Highlights included researchers presenting their policy briefs, receiving practitioner-focused feedback from the Advisory Committee, and philanthropists offering guidance on improving the briefs. Farmers showcased their agroecological practices and shared lessons from their experiences. The event culminated in field visits to various farms, where participants gained firsthand insights from Rwanda’s agroecological farmers.

Africa CSID remains deeply committed to its role on the Advisory Committee and is excited to contribute to AFSTC’s vision as we plan for the coming year.