G7 Summit New Focus on Africa’s Food Systems- World Animal Protection Press Statement

World Animal Protection welcomes the G7 Summit Presidency’s announcement to prioritize food security and sustainable food systems in Africa through the Apulia Food Systems Initiative. This commendable step presents an opportunity, to extend support to smallholder farmers, who are the backbone of agriculture across the continent.

This initiative aligns with the UAE Declaration on Sustainable Agriculture, Resilient Food Systems, and Climate Action signed by 159 countries at COP28, demonstrating a strong commitment to addressing the Food and Climate Nexus. We are encouraged that policymakers are increasingly recognising the need for food systems transformation to combat climate change effectively in this critical decade. As temperatures rise and ecosystems falter, both animals and humans face increasingly dire consequences.

 Smallholder farmers and their communities are on the frontlines of food production and are profoundly affected by the impacts of climate change, which exacerbates food insecurity. Therefore, while we celebrate this positive move, it is imperative that the Apulia Initiative is implemented with inclusivity and accountability at its core. Previous initiatives with similar intentions have fallen short, often leaving those they intended to help without tangible benefits. It is crucial that smallholder farmers are central to this initiative to ensure it addresses their needs and challenges effectively.

It is crucial this initiative improves food security and livelihoods in Africa. Supporting Africa's agroecological practices and protecting its diverse ecosystems from further degradation is vital. Farming should not adopt industrialized models that could worsen health and environmental issues. Instead, sustainable practices must be prioritized to ensure long-term development and ecological balance.

As G7 leaders convene in Italy this week, we are calling for urgent action towards building an equitable, humane, and sustainable food system:

The Director for Africa, Tennyson Williams while commenting on this new development said,

The food crises in Africa must be addressed in tandem with the urgent challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss. These interconnected issues demand a coherent strategy that prioritizes sustainable agricultural practices and the preservation of natural ecosystems. By integrating climate resilience, animal welfare, and biodiversity conservation into food security initiatives, we can create a food system that not only nourishes populations but also safeguards the environment for future generations.

It is essential to adopt a holistic approach that supports agroecological methods, enhances ecosystem services, and mitigates the impacts of climate change, ensuring a thriving and resilient food system for Africa and the world.

Echoing these sentiments the Global Director of External Engagement, Kelly Dent added,

The G7 must demonstrate the political will to address food system transformation and climate change, particularly as we approach COP30 in Brazil—a nation where the footprint of industrial animal agriculture has caused massive devastation. It is imperative that the G7 sets an example by committing to sustainable and equitable food systems, showing global leadership in tackling these critical issues.

The Apulia initiative in Africa must therefore prioritize transforming livestock production to reduce industrialization and antimicrobial use, to achieve a more sustainable and equitable food system, increasing access to diverse, nutrient-rich diets and build food justice and resilience for smallholder farmers.

In conclusion, the Apulia Initiative has the potential to make a significant impact on food security and sustainable agriculture in Africa. By ensuring it is inclusive, transparent, and accountable, we can build a climate resilient, food-secure, and sustainable future.

World Animal Protection stands ready to support this initiative and work collaboratively with the G7 Summit, African governments, African Civil Society Organizations, and other stakeholders to achieve these shared goals.