The world's attention will turn to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from July 27-29, 2025, as the city co-hosts the pivotal Second United Nations Food Systems Summit Stocktaking Moment (UNFSS+4). This significant event, held in partnership with the United Nations (UN) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), will bring together global leaders, experts, farmers, youth representatives, and private sector stakeholders to accelerate the transformation of our global food systems.
The summit's location in Ethiopia is no coincidence. The UN and FAO have recognized and commended Ethiopia's remarkable journey and significant strides in transforming its own food systems. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has reinforced this national vision, reaffirming the country's unwavering commitment to developing inclusive, sustainable, and resilient agri-food complexes that can serve as a model for the region and the world.
Why This Summit Matters: The Global Context
Our global food systems are at a critical juncture. They are under immense pressure from a "perfect storm" of challenges:
- Climate Change: Erratic weather patterns, droughts, and floods threaten crop yields and livestock.
- Population Growth: A growing global population demands more food, produced more sustainably.
- Geopolitical Instability: Conflicts and supply chain disruptions impact food availability and affordability.
- Economic Shocks: Inflation and economic downturns strain the ability of families to access nutritious food.
The UNFSS+4 summit is a crucial "stocktaking moment" to assess progress made since the first summit in 2021 and to ramp up collective action. The goal is to get the world back on track to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger by 2030, and to make progress on related goals concerning poverty, health, and climate action.
Ethiopia's Leadership: A Blueprint for Transformation
Ethiopia's role as a co-host is a testament to its proactive and innovative agricultural policies. The nation is actively shifting the narrative from one of food insecurity to one of self-sufficiency and resilience. Key initiatives include:
- The Green Legacy Initiative: A massive national afforestation program aimed at combating desertification, improving soil health, and building climate resilience. This directly supports the foundation of a healthy food system.
- Wheat Self-Sufficiency Program: Through extensive investment in irrigation, modern farming techniques, and heat-tolerant seed varieties, Ethiopia has dramatically increased its wheat production, reducing its reliance on imports and becoming a net exporter.
- Agri-Food Complexes: The government is championing the development of large-scale, integrated agricultural hubs. These complexes connect smallholder farmers to processing facilities, storage, and markets, creating value along the entire chain—from farm to fork—and generating employment.
These efforts showcase a holistic approach that connects environmental health with economic prosperity and food security, providing valuable lessons for other nations.
Core Themes of the Summit
Discussions at UNFSS+4 in Addis Ababa will revolve around several urgent priorities:
1. The Urgency of Transformation in Africa and Beyond
Africa holds immense potential to become a global breadbasket, yet it faces some of the most severe food system challenges. The summit will spotlight African-led solutions, promoting investment in infrastructure, technology, and trade policies that can unlock this potential. The focus will be on sharing what works, from drought-resistant crops to digital tools that provide farmers with market information.
2. Building Inclusive and Resilient Agri-Food Complexes
The concept of "inclusive" is central. This means ensuring that the benefits of agricultural growth reach everyone, especially smallholder farmers, women, and rural communities who form the backbone of the food system. "Resilience" refers to creating systems that can withstand shocks be they climatic, economic, or health-related ensuring a steady supply of nutritious food for all.
3. Youth at the Center of the Agri-Food Revolution
With one of the youngest populations in the world, Africa's future is inextricably linked to its youth. The summit will feature a strong emphasis on engaging and empowering young people. The goal is to make agriculture and the broader food sector an attractive and viable career path. This involves promoting "agri-preneurship," investing in digital agricultural education, and ensuring young people have a seat at the decision-making table. Their energy, innovation, and tech-savviness are seen as essential drivers of the transformation.
The UNFSS+4 is more than just a meeting; it's a global movement for a better food future. Stay informed and engage with the discussions as we work towards a world where everyone has access to safe, nutritious, and affordable food.
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https://www.unfoodsystems.org/
https://www.fao.org/Ethiopia/en/