African solutions for sustainable land use take center stage in regional forum

Addis Ababa, February 27, 2026 (FMC) — African countries agreed to strengthen cooperation on sustainable land use and deforestation-free agricultural systems during a regional exchange aimed at addressing the structural drivers of forest loss and promoting agroforestry-based solutions.

The four-day forum, co-organized with the Africa Sustainable Commodities Initiative this week, brought together government representatives, development partners, and experts to explore practical pathways for balancing agricultural productivity with environmental protection. Participants emphasized that deforestation in Africa is largely driven by systemic pressures such as food security needs, limited finance, and insecure land tenure rather than deliberate forest destruction.

Speakers argued that systemic solutions—rather than isolated interventions—are required to decouple agricultural expansion from forest loss. Discussions highlighted agroforestry, sustainable land management, and improved access to climate finance as critical components of a regional strategy that enhances productivity while safeguarding ecosystems.

Representatives of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations stressed the interdependence of agriculture and forestry, noting that agroforestry systems improve soil fertility, water retention, and biodiversity. Officials described deforestation linked to agriculture as a reflection of structural constraints and called for institutional reforms and investment to support sustainable transitions.

Delegates from the Government of Kenya underscored the complementary nature of food security and forest conservation, citing national efforts to restore degraded landscapes and strengthen monitoring systems. Participants agreed that sustainable agricultural transformation must be economically viable and inclusive, particularly for smallholder farmers.

The workshop is expected to culminate in a priority action roadmap outlining shared policy pathways and investment strategies for sustainable agroforestry systems in Africa. Organizers stated that the roadmap will guide regional cooperation and inform national strategies aimed at aligning food security objectives with environmental sustainability.

Delegates reiterated that African solutions must reflect local realities and development priorities. The exchange highlighted growing momentum toward coordinated action on land-use transformation, with participants expressing optimism that the resulting roadmap will strengthen partnerships and advance concrete measures to address deforestation.

The forum underscored Africa’s role in shaping sustainable development pathways that integrate agricultural growth with climate resilience and ecosystem protection. Participants emphasized that effective solutions require collaboration across governments, private sector actors, and communities to ensure inclusive and sustainable outcomes.

Reporting by Solomon Yitayew