AU Commission Chair, IFRC Chief Spotlight Climate-Resilient Agriculture, Intra-African Trade to Tackle Hunger

Addis Ababa, November 3, 2026 (FMC) — Chairperson of the African Union Commission Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has held discussions with Secretary-General of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) Jagan Chapagain on strengthening Africa’s food systems through climate-resilient agriculture and expanded intra-African trade.

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the AU–IFRC High-Level Convening on Advancing Durable Solutions Towards Zero Hunger in Africa.

The discussions focused on strengthening agricultural value chains, improving connectivity, expanding strategic partnerships and enhancing intra-African trade as part of efforts to address food insecurity across the continent.

Mahmoud underscored the importance of harnessing modern technologies, including artificial intelligence, to improve agricultural productivity, health surveillance and humanitarian response.

He also emphasized Africa’s potential to achieve greater food sovereignty and self-reliance through effective governance and strong political commitment.

For his part, Chapagain highlighted the importance of translating regular Africa–Asia political engagement into practical exchanges and collaborative projects, particularly those promoting sustainable and innovative approaches to food security amid the growing impact of climate change on agricultural practices.

The meeting also reaffirmed the importance of the AU–IFRC partnership in strengthening community health systems, supporting the establishment of the African Humanitarian Agency, and enhancing preparedness and response to climate-related risks and humanitarian emergencies.