To promote investment, innovation, and climate-resilient solutions for Africa's upcoming food security challenges, world agricultural leaders convene in Nairobi.

Global Agricultural Leaders Meet in Nairobi as policymakers, scientists, farmers, and agripreneurs gather for DialogueNEXT in Africa, a major summit focused on transforming agricultural systems through innovation, investment, and policy reforms. Hosted by the World Food Prize Foundation, the event addresses climate pressures, rising food demand, and Africa’s future role in feeding a projected global population exceeding nine billion by 2050.

The summit, themed “Born to Feed the Future,” brings together representatives from across Africa and beyond to explore technology-based agriculture, resilient food systems, and farmer-led solutions. Senior officials, including Kenya’s Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe and Madagascar’s Minister of Livestock Dr. Riana Nantenaina Randrianomenjanahary, are participating in discussions.

Key focus areas at DialogueNEXT in Africa include:

  • Agricultural innovation supporting sustainable food production growth

  • Climate resilience strategies protecting African farming communities

  • Smallholder farmers are gaining access to modern technologies

  • Policy reforms encouraging agricultural investment across Africa

  • Value chain improvements strengthening regional food security

Africa’s Agricultural Transformation Takes Center Stage

The Nairobi summit highlights Africa’s agricultural potential while addressing challenges such as climate change, limited investment, and fragile supply chains. Delegates are examining how agritech solutions, scientific research, and entrepreneurship can improve productivity and strengthen food security across the continent.

Experts warned that climate impacts could significantly affect crop production. Projections discussed at the conference indicate that sub-Saharan Africa may experience declining yields as global temperatures continue rising, increasing the urgency for climate-smart agriculture and adaptation measures.

Innovation and Investment Shape Future Food Systems

The World Food Prize Foundation’s DialogueNEXT series continues its mission of promoting global agricultural collaboration. Previous editions were held in Mexico in 2024 and India in 2025, building on the legacy of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Dr. Norman E. Borlaug and his efforts to combat hunger through science and farming innovation.

Former African Development Bank President and 2017 World Food Prize Laureate Akinwumi Adesina emphasized that Africa requires stronger investment in agricultural infrastructure, research, and farmer-focused solutions. The summit’s outcomes are expected to contribute to discussions ahead of the Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue in October 2026.

FAQs

What is DialogueNEXT in Africa?

It is an agricultural summit promoting innovation and food security.

Who organized the Nairobi agricultural summit?

The World Food Prize Foundation hosted the event.

Why is Africa important for global agriculture?

Africa has major potential to support future food needs.

What challenges does African agriculture face?

Climate change, investment gaps, and supply chain issues remain.

What solutions were discussed at the summit?

Technology, policy reforms, and farmer-led innovations were highlighted.