Hub | Africa Economic Forum International Development

Overview

The Africa Food and Trade Policy Hub is a center that aims to transform Africa’s food and trade sector by promoting effective policies. The hub was launched in 2023 by the Africa Economic Forum International Development, with the support of other partners. The hub provides technical assistance, training, and funding for food and trade policy initiatives in Africa. The hub also facilitates the sharing of knowledge, experience, and best practices among the African food and trade policy stakeholders. The hub covers four main thematic areas: food policy, trade policy, policy advocacy, and policy research. The hub has partnered with several African countries and regions, such as Ethiopia, Nigeria, Rwanda, and the West African Trade Organization.

What We Do

Promote food policy:

The hub promotes food policy, which means that policies that ensure food security and nutrition are enacted and implemented. The hub works with policymakers, researchers, and advocates to develop and promote policies that improve the production, distribution, and consumption of food. The hub also advocates for the right to food and the use of evidence in food policy.

Enhance trade policy:

The hub enhances trade policy, which means that policies that facilitate fair and sustainable trade are enacted and implemented. The hub works with policymakers, researchers, and advocates to develop and promote policies that improve the export, import, and transit of goods and services. The hub also supports the negotiation and implementation of trade agreements and the compliance with trade rules and standards.

Advocate for policy:

The hub advocates for policy, which means that policies that are beneficial for food and trade are brought to the attention of decision-makers and the public. The hub works with policymakers, researchers, and advocates to develop and deliver advocacy campaigns that raise awareness, build support, and influence action on food and trade issues. The hub also supports the participation of stakeholders in policy processes and the accountability of policymakers.

Conduct policy research:

The hub conducts policy research, which means that knowledge about food and trade policies is generated and disseminated. The hub works with researchers, institutions, and networks to develop and conduct research projects that explore the design, implementation, and impact of food and trade policies. The hub also supports the publication and communication of research findings and the use of research in policy and practice.

Why We Do It

The Africa Food and Trade Policy Hub does it because:

Food and trade policy is essential for sustainable development:

Food and trade policy is a critical factor for sustainable development, as it shapes the rules and regulations that govern the food and trade sector. Food and trade policy can help improve food security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability by supporting the production of sufficient, safe, and nutritious food, the operation of fair and efficient markets, and the protection of natural resources. Food and trade policy can also contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, such as ending hunger, reducing poverty, and promoting decent work and economic growth.

Africa Food Trade Policy Hub