Minister Fitsum Assefa Highlights Role of Youth in Tackling Climate Impact on Agroecology

ADDIS ABABA—Ethiopia’s Minister of Planning and Development, Fitsum Assefa, emphasized the critical role of youth in mitigating the impact of climate change on food systems and agroecology across Africa.

According to Ethiopian News Agency, Minister Assefa addressed the opening of the First Thousand African Youth Summit on Food Systems and Agroecology 2024 in Addis Ababa. The event, themed “African Youth Showcasing Agroecological Opportunities in Adapting to the Climate Crisis to Address Food System Challenges in Africa,” gathered young leaders and experts to discuss innovative strategies for sustainable agriculture in the face of climate challenges.

Minister Assefa pointed out that while Africa contributes minimally to global climate change, it suffers disproportionately from its effects, particularly in agriculture, food production, and overall food systems. She highlighted the importance of building a resilient environment with the active involvement of Africa’s youth, who are both the center of current efforts and the architects of future solutions.

The minister detailed the benefits of agroecology, which include the use of environmentally friendly farming methods that incorporate local knowledge and protect biodiversity, leading to enhanced food sovereignty, environmental protection, and social equity. She also mentioned Ethiopia’s reliance on agriculture, which supports almost 80% of its population, and the government’s response through various policies, strategies, and initiatives aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change.

One of the key initiatives discussed was the Green Legacy program, led by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, which has significantly increased Ethiopia’s forest coverage from 17.2% to 23.6% since its inception in 2019. Approximately 40 billion seedlings have been planted, contributing not only to reforestation but also to fostering a culture of environmental responsibility among Ethiopians.

Million Belay, General Coordinator of the Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa (AFSA), also spoke at the summit, underscoring the importance of the event as a platform for African youth to formulate and discuss solutions to continental challenges and to unify their understanding and actions towards common goals.