Tropentag 2023, September 20 - 22, Berlin, Germany "Competing pathways for equitable food systems transformation: trade-offs and synergies."

Rethinking agriculture and food systems strategies for Africa: Moving beyond the green revolution to embrace agroecology

Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa (AFSA), Uganda

Abstract

This presentation advocates for a fundamental shift in African agriculture and food systems strategies, urging a departure from the conventional Green Revolution approach and a move towards embracing agroecology. The limitations of the Green Revolution, including environmental degradation, high production costs, and vulnerability to pests and diseases, are discussed, highlighting the need for a more sustainable and inclusive alternative. Agroecology, grounded in ecological principles and local knowledge, offers a context-specific and climate-resilient pathway to transform African agriculture. By prioritising biodiversity, sustainable resource management, and farmer empowerment, agroecology can address food security challenges while promoting environmental sustainability and social equity.
The presentation makes the case for agroecology, presenting the positive impacts of agroecology on food security, biodiversity conservation, climate adaptation, and rural livelihoods in diverse African contexts. Embracing agroecology enables Africa to create resilient and equitable agricultural systems that tackle climate change and resource constraints while safeguarding community well-being and ecological integrity.

Contact Address: Bridget Mugambe, Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa (AFSA), Kampala, Uganda, e-mail: bridget.mugambeafsafrica.org