Science, research, and innovation are essential to accelerate the transformation to healthier, more sustainable, more equitable, and more resilient food systems. What scientific innovations are needed and how they can inform related policies were among the issues discussed at the recent Science Days, a virtual conference organized by the Scientific Group as a prelude to the UN Food Systems Summit.
On 7 July, the Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT) organized one of several conference side events, themed “Scaling Up Innovations and Partnerships to Modernize African Food Systems”. Moderator and IITA Director for Advocacy and Country Alignment Function, Kwesi Atta-Krah, highlighted the need for urgent and pragmatic steps to solve shaky food systems and put Africa on the path of self-sustenance and prosperity.
IITA Director of Development and Delivery Office Alfred Dixon commended the organizers for bringing the community together to address food challenges in Africa. He stated that the impact of COVID-19 had demonstrated the need for Africa to fortify its food systems, and TAAT is a classic example of the path that Africa needs to take to address its food challenge. “I urge you to identify partnership models that are effective for the modernization of Africa’s food system,” he advised.