G7 must show political will to address food system transformation and climate change

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The food crises in Africa must be addressed in tandem with the urgent challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss.

The World Animal Protection Director for Africa, Tennyson Williams says these interconnected issues demand a coherent strategy that prioritizes sustainable agricultural practices and the preservation of natural ecosystems.

“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 says.

Williams made the remarks after leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) countries pledged to prioritize food security and sustainable food systems in Africa through the Apulia Food Systems Initiative (AFSI).

Reports show AFSI named after the Southern Italian region where the summit was held from June 13 to 15, 2024, is purposed to overcome structural barriers to food security.

Williams says the initiative presents an opportunity, to extend support to smallholder farmers, who are the backbone of agriculture across the continent.

However, it is essential to adopt a holistic approach that supports agroecological methods, enhances ecosystem services, and mitigates the impacts of climate change, ensuring a thriving and resilient food system for Africa and the world.

The initiative aligns with the UAE Declaration on Sustainable Agriculture, Resilient Food Systems, and Climate Action signed by 159 countries at COP28, demonstrating a strong commitment to addressing the Food and Climate Link.

“We are encouraged that policymakers are increasingly recognizing the need for food systems transformation to combat climate change effectively in this critical decade. As temperatures rise and ecosystems falter, both animals and humans face increasingly dire consequences,” said World Animal Protection in a statement.

“It says smallholder farmers and their communities are on the frontlines of food production and are profoundly affected by the impacts of climate change, which exacerbates food insecurity.

“While we celebrate this positive move, the Apulia Initiative must be implemented with inclusivity and accountability at its core,” says the organisation

It says previous initiatives with similar intentions have fallen short, often leaving those they intended to help without tangible benefits.

Adding that smallholder farmers must be central to this initiative to ensure it addresses their needs and challenges effectively.

“It is crucial this initiative improves food security and livelihoods in Africa. Supporting Africa's agroecological practices and protecting its diverse ecosystems from further degradation is vital.

“Farming should not adopt industrialized models that could worsen health and environmental issues. Instead, sustainable practices must be prioritized to ensure long-term development and ecological balance. We are calling for urgent action towards building an equitable, humane, and sustainable food system,” it said.

Echoing these sentiments, World Animal Protection Global Director of External Engagement, Kelly Dent said that the G7 must demonstrate the political will to address food system transformation and climate change, particularly as COP30 in Brazil draws closer.

The G7 must set an example by committing to sustainable and equitable food systems, showing global leadership in tackling these critical issues.

The Apulia initiative in Africa must therefore prioritize transforming livestock production to reduce industrialization and antimicrobial use, 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.”

Dent says the Apulia Initiative has the potential to make a significant impact on food security and sustainable agriculture in Africa.

“By ensuring it is inclusive, transparent, and accountable, we can build a climate resilient, food-secure, and sustainable future.”