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Chidi Ugwu
The Africa Food Systems Forum (AFSF) called on youths across the globe to lead Agricultural Revolution in order to transform food systems and drive economic growth.
Amath Pathé Sène, Managing Director of AFSF, during the opening ceremony of the 2025 Africa Food Systems Forum (AFSF) recently.
Held under the theme Africa’s Youth: Leading Collaboration, Innovation, and the Implementation of Agri-Food Systems Transformation, the forum convened leaders, innovators, and stakeholders from 97 countries to chart the future of African agriculture.
Sène described the forum as more than a gathering—it is a rallying point for a new generation of African leaders poised to spearhead a global agricultural renaissance.
Highlighting Africa’s vast potential, he noted that the continent holds over 60% of the world’s uncultivated arable land, a “secret weapon” that positions Africa’s youth to transform food systems and drive economic growth.
“Africa’s young people are not waiting for opportunities; they are creating them,” Sène declared, emphasizing the ingenuity and determination of the continent’s youth.
He celebrated Senegal, the host nation, as the “Land of Teranga”—a beacon of warmth, respect, and community—and a rising force in global agriculture.
The presence of Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye underscored the high-level commitment to advancing Africa’s agri-food agenda.
Sène called for increased innovation, stronger partnerships, and investment-ready ideas to unlock Africa’s agricultural potential.
He urged attendees to immerse themselves in Senegal’s rich culture and engage in discussions that will shape the continent’s food security and economic future.
“This is a shared journey,” he said, emphasizing collaboration as the cornerstone of transformation.
The forum, which runs over several days, promises to be a catalyst for actionable solutions and lasting change.
Sène’s address was a clarion call to action, reminding attendees that while challenges remain, the resilience and collective vision of Africa’s people—led by its dynamic youth—are even greater.
As the continent stands at a pivotal moment, AFSF 2025 is set to turn potential into reality, with Africa’s youth leading the charge.