Kampala (Uganda) 9 January 2025 (SPS)- A Sahrawi delegation led by H.E. Baba Ahmed Mohamed Yahdih Fdeid, Minister of Economic Development and Agriculture of the Sahrawi Republic, actively participated in the first day of the African Union’s Extraordinary Summit on Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programmes (CAADP), held in Kampala, Uganda from the 9 to 11 January 2025.
The delegation also included the Sahrawi Permanent Representative to the AU, Lamine Baali, the Chargé d’Affaires in the Sahrawi Embassy in Uganda, Mohamed Ali Daf, and Agriculture Engineer, Taleb Brahim Khalil, underscoring the Sahrawi Republic’s commitment to advancing agricultural development on the continent.
The summit, which focuses on the adoption of a transformative 10-year strategy for the Comprehensive CAADP, brought together ministers of agriculture from the AU’s 55-member states. The event marks a pivotal moment in the implementation of the Malabo Declaration, with goals to advance agricultural transformation and improve food systems across Africa.
In his address, Minister Fdeid emphasized the remarkable progress achieved across the continent, particularly in enhancing the livelihoods of women and youth involved in agriculture. He highlighted the pivotal role of agriculture in shaping Africa’s future, noting its potential to drive economic growth, improve food security, and create sustainable livelihoods.
However, Minister Fdeid underscored the need to consider the varying levels of development among African nations, advocating for tailored approaches that reflect the unique challenges and opportunities of each country. He drew attention to the specific circumstances of the Sahrawi Republic, calling on AU institutions and member states to support the Sahrawi government in achieving the ambitious goals set by CAADP.
“The Sahrawi Republic remains steadfast in its commitment to the collective vision of an inclusive and prosperous Africa. However, we face unique challenges that require solidarity and targeted support. With the help of the African Union and our partners, we aim to contribute meaningfully to the CAADP goals and improve the lives of our people,” he stated.
The opening session featured remarks by the Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, Prime Minister of Uganda, who highlighted the continent’s agricultural potential and urged concrete action to reduce Africa’s reliance on food imports. Other key speakers included H.E. Ambassador Josefa Sacko, AU Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment, who outlined the CAADP strategy’s focus on inclusivity, climate resilience, and economic growth.
The Sahrawi Republic’s participation reaffirms its active engagement in continental initiatives and its dedication to shared prosperity and sustainable development. As the summit progresses, the delegation is expected to continue advocating for equitable agricultural transformation and collaboration among African states.
The second day of the Summit will witness the participation of African Ministers of Foreign Affairs, with the participation of Sahrawi Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mohamed Sidati, accompanied by the Sahrawi Director of the Department of African Affairs, Amb. Moussa Blal.
The Extraordinary Summit will conclude on January 11, 2025, with the Participation of African Heads of State and Government, with the participation of the Sahrawi President, Brahim Ghali, and an important presidential delegation.
The Summit is set to endorse the Kampala Declaration and the CAADP Ten-Year Strategy and Action Plan (2026–2035), charting a new course for agriculture-led growth and resilience in Africa. (SPS)
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