IGAD turns to lawmakers in push to fix Africa’s failing food systems

With Africa falling behind on its pledge to end hunger and poverty by 2025, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) is turning to parliaments for solutions.

In Nairobi, IGAD launched a Parliamentary Working Group on Agrifood Systems, aimed at accelerating policy reforms through direct legislative action across member states.

The initiative follows mounting concerns over slow progress under the Malabo Declaration, which set ambitious goals for agricultural transformation nearly a decade ago.

IGAD Head of Mission to Kenya, Dr. Fatuma Adan, said the forum is a turning point.

“Enhanced collaboration between governments and parliaments is key. Lawmakers must lead in prioritizing food systems in national budgets and policies.”

Each member state will nominate two MPs—preferably from agriculture-related committees—to champion agrifood reforms, mobilize investment, and align national efforts with CAADP targets.

In the main, the IGAD Parliamentary Forum on Agrifood Systems will advocate for inclusive and sustainable transformation by influencing policy development, mobilizing investment, and aligning efforts with CAADP targets. 

As echoed by Dr. Senait Regassa, Project Coordinator of the IGAD Food System Resilience Project, the forum will offer expert input into national and regional legislation and budgets, ensuring they reflect priorities for resilience and change.

Through participation in CAADP Biennial Reviews, it will promote accountability and transparency. The Forum will collaborate with regional bodies, national focal points, and multisectoral stakeholders to drive agrifood system goals, while also engaging in high-level continental dialogues on food security and sustainable development as resources permit.

Dr. Mohi Tahomi of IGAD emphasized the lawmakers’ role:

“You hold the power to mobilize resources, support innovation, and drive inclusive food systems. Africa is watching.”

With less than five months to the Malabo deadline, IGAD is placing its bets on lawmakers to help deliver long-delayed progress. Whether this new forum will change Africa’s food future remains to be seen.