By: Benjamin Abugri & Bridget Kakuwa
Nairobi, Kenya – March 28, 2025
The Second Eastern Africa Agroecology Conference (EAAC25) concluded in Nairobi with resounding momentum, signaling a continental shift toward more sustainable, equitable, and climate-resilient food systems. Held under the theme “Strengthening Resilience and Sustainability of Agri-Food Systems in Eastern Africa Through Agroecology,” the three-day event drew over 800 participants from 42 countries across Africa and beyond.
Delegates from 42 countries gathered in Nairobi for the Second Eastern Africa Agroecology Conference
Hosted from March 25–27, 2025, the conference brought together an impressive mix of policymakers, farmers, researchers, youth, civil society, and private sector actors. High-level dignitaries included Cabinet Secretaries, Members of Parliament, and Ministers of Agriculture, with technical sessions led by leading agroecologists, development partners, and grassroots organizations.
Conference Objectives and Activities
The conference aimed to:
- Showcase successful agroecological practices and innovations across Eastern Africa.
- Foster policy dialogue for integrating agroecology into national strategies and investment frameworks.
- Promote youth and women participation in agroecological transformation.
- Strengthen regional collaboration and knowledge exchange platforms.
Activities included high-level plenary sessions, field visits, exhibitions of agroecological innovations, side events, and technical panels.
Publications and products promoting climate-smart agriculture and agroecological practices on display
Five Bold Calls to Action
Key financing mechanisms presented in the conference’s Draft Call to Action
- Allocate Dedicated Funding for Agroecology Programs: Targeting women, youth, and marginalized communities.
- Commit 20% of Agriculture Budgets to Agroecology: Recognizing agroecology’s critical role in soil health, food security, and climate adaptation.
- Enhance Development Partner Support: To increase resources for agroecological interventions in Africa.
- Innovative Financing Models: Encouraging blended financing and new investment approaches.
- Invest in Agroecological Innovation and Mechanization: To reduce labor burden and drive scalable adoption.
CAADP-XP4 Consortium’s Role in Shaping the Agroecology Agenda
Regional leaders from CAADP-XP4 convene at an ASARECA-led roundtable to influence post-Malabo policy integration
The conference also showcased the pivotal role of the CAADP-XP4 consortium, including FARA, ASARECA, RUFORUM, CORAF, and CCARDESA. A key highlight was the ASARECA-led side event, “Regional Policy Roundtable on Enhancing Integration of Agroecology into the Post-Malabo CAADP Process.”
This policy-focused session emphasized embedding agroecology into post-Malabo frameworks, and spotlighted data-informed decision-making. The Regional Multi-Actor Network on Agroecology, led by FARA and RUFORUM, and the regional Centres of Excellence spearheaded by CCARDESA, CORAF, and ASARECA, were applauded as trailblazers in evidence-based advocacy.
Powerful Remarks from High-Level Leaders
MP Gladys emphasized continued efforts to eliminate harmful pesticides across Africa
In a series of powerful closing remarks, Kenyan officials committed to mainstreaming agroecology in budgets and farmer training. Uganda’s Minister likened the movement to a mustard seed—poised to grow into a powerful revolution. MP Gladys received a standing ovation for her role in banning eight hazardous chemicals and reaffirmed her fight for safer agriculture. Echoing the sentiment, one expert challenged, “If pesticides are banned elsewhere due to cancer risks, why should Africa accept them?”
Voices of Youth and Innovation
Youth delegates shared their passion for food heritage and sustainability
The conference also gave center stage to youth voices and agroecological innovators. Their commitment to cultural heritage, local food systems, and regenerative practices proved that the future of African agriculture is in dynamic and capable hands.
Conclusion: Sowing Seeds for a Greener Africa
The conference concluded with a collective resolve to carry forward the movement through advocacy, investment, and collaboration. With clear direction and cross-sector momentum, Eastern Africa is poised to lead the continent in agroecological transformation.
“Agroecology is not about going back in time—it’s about stepping forward with science, culture, and nature working together,” one youth speaker declared.
Participants and partners from across the continent commit to agroecology action
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