Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye declared Monday that Africa possesses the power to feed the entire world. Speaking at the Africa Food Systems Forum in Dakar, Faye argued that the continent has “all it needs” for self-sufficiency.
He highlighted Africa’s 65% share of the world’s arable land, coupled with a creative youth and vast natural resources. Faye urged nations to rely on themselves for food security, advocating a solution-led approach across the continent.
He called for massive investments in water management, agricultural innovation, local processing, and expanded intra-African trade. Rwandan President Paul Kagame echoed the message, insisting Africa must stop depending on the rest of the world.
Kagame stressed the continent has knowledge, resources, and human potential, making reliance on foreign aid unnecessary and limiting. He challenged the youth to match their demands with decisive action rather than remaining passive observers of change.
The Africa Food Systems Forum continues through September 5, gathering stakeholders to shape sustainable and inclusive food systems. Leaders hope the summit will catalyse transformative policies, investment, and collaboration to secure Africa’s agricultural future.