World Animal Protection (WAP) has expressed its approval of the G7 Summit Presidency’s decision to prioritize food security and sustainable food systems in Africa through the Apulia Food Systems Initiative.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the organization highlighted that this step offers an opportunity to provide assistance to smallholder farmers, who play a vital role in agriculture across the continent.
The initiative is in line with the UAE declaration on Sustainable Agriculture, Resilient Food Systems, and Climate Action, which was endorsed by 159 countries at COP28. Tennyson Williams, the Director for Africa at WAP, emphasized the importance of addressing the food crisis in Africa concurrently with the pressing challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss.
“These interconnected issues demand a coherent strategy that prioritises sustainable agricultural practices and the preservation of natural ecosystems,” Williams said.
“By integrating climate resilience, animal welfare, and biodiversity conservation into food security initiatives, we can create a food system that not only nourishes populations but also safeguards the environment for future generations,” he said.
Williams emphasized the importance of adopting a holistic approach that supports agroecological methods.
This approach should aim to enhance ecosystem services and mitigate the impacts of climate change, ultimately ensuring a thriving and resilient food system for Africa and the world.
WAP highlighted that policymakers are increasingly recognizing the necessity of transforming food systems to effectively combat climate change during this critical decade.
“Smallholder farmers and their communities are on the front lines of food production and are profoundly affected by the impacts of climate change, which exacerbates food insecurity. While we celebrate this positive move, it is imperative that the Apulia Initiative is implemented with inclusivity and accountability at its core,” they said.
The organization emphasized the importance of ensuring that smallholder farmers are central to the initiative to effectively address their needs and challenges. Consequently, the initiative should aim to improve food security and livelihoods in Africa.
Echoing these sentiments, the Global Director of External Engagement, Kelly Dent, emphasized the need for the G7 to demonstrate political will in addressing food system transformation and climate change, particularly as we approach COP30 in Brazil.
“It is imperative that the G7 sets an example by committing to sustainable and equitable food systems, showing global leadership in tackling these critical issues,” Dent said.
“The Apulia initiative in Africa must therefore prioritize transforming livestock production to reduce industrialization and antimicrobial use. This is to achieve a more sustainable and equitable food system, increasing access to diverse, nutrient-rich diets and build food justice and resilience for smallholder farmers,” he added.
