CIP and partners launch root and tuber crops initiative at Africa Food Systems Forum
AFRICA – The International Potato Center (CIP) and partners launched the Partnership for Root and Tuber Crops in Africa during the Africa Food Systems Forum in Dakar.
This step promises stronger farmer incomes, improved nutrition, and more resilient food systems.
The Africa Food Systems Forum is currently ongoing from August 31 to September 5, 2025, in Dakar, Senegal. Experts, policymakers, development partners, youth, and private sector leaders joined the summit to focus on Africa’s food future. It holds the title of the continent’s premier event in this space.
The forum featured more than 350 speakers and hosted over 6,000 attendees from 113 countries, including presidents and ministers. It included an agri-food investment marketplace and an exhibition of innovations.
Side events covered topics like food systems financing, school meals, and artificial intelligence for agriculture.
CIP highlighted root and tuber crops like cassava, yam, potato, and sweet potato. These crops already make up more than 40 percent of Africa’s food production, yet they remain underused.
At the launch, the initiative’s leaders said: “This Partnership brings together evidence, partnerships, and investment that can make root and tuber crops central to Africa’s food systems.”
One panelist added, “Root and tuber crops are uniquely positioned to help Africa respond to climate challenges and meet nutritional needs, given their adaptability and role in local diets.”
Building momentum through collaboration
The launch featured national and regional development players, the private sector, development partners, and CGIAR leaders. The event stressed innovation, value chain investment, and strategic food system integration.
Organizers pledged to align with national strategies to ensure farmers gain directly from improved crop varieties, better storage, and stronger market access.
The event has also launched IFPRI’s Global Food Policy Report alongside a ministerial panel discussion.
Attendees have debated African food systems financing, the Kampala CAADP Strategy, and school meal programs that support local growers.
The Partnership joins wider efforts at the forum that highlight youth and women in agribusiness, and climate-smart smallholder agriculture.
Those sessions moved ideas into action. They aimed to shift food systems toward greater equity, resilience, and opportunity for nations and communities.
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