Addis ababa: Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed emphasized the need for predictable and concessional financing in Africa to support investments in agriculture, rural transformation, infrastructure, and nutrition. The 2nd United Nations Food Systems Summit Stocktake (UNFSS+4) kicked off this morning in Addis Ababa, in the presence of several heads of state and delegations from international organizations.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Abiy stated that despite progress, the African continent faces mounting challenges. He highlighted that Africa has the potential to feed itself and contribute to global food security, but this requires development finance. Abiy underscored the necessity for Africa to have access to predictable, concessional finance for investments in key areas such as agriculture, rural transformation, infrastructure, and nutrition.
Abiy also pointed out the importance of fair access to technology, stating that Africa needs climate-smart tools, biotechnologies, and digital agriculture solutions tailored to its specific contexts. He emphasized that these technologies must be affordable and accessible, not restricted by high barriers, as this would benefit everyone.
Highlighting Africa's vulnerability to climate change, despite being a minimal contributor to its causes, the Prime Minister called for increased global investment in sustainable agriculture and land use. He expressed enthusiasm for collaboration, stating that Africa is ready and open to investments that would transform the agricultural sector.
In addition to financial and technological support, Prime Minister Abiy stressed the importance of fair trade rules that establish a level playing field and a strong global partnership that empowers local solutions. He envisioned a future without hunger, where rural prosperity is realized, and food systems benefit both people and the planet.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed Ethiopia's commitment to advancing this agenda in collaboration with the African Union, development partners, and the United Nations.