AFSA’s Reflection on COP16: Holding the Line for Agroecology and Food Sovereignty
As the 16th Conference of Parties on the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) wraps up here in Cali, Colombia, we at AFSA find ourselves reflecting on what has been a whirlwind of highs and lows. Together with our partners—ZAAB, SKI, Friends of the Earth Africa, ABN, BIBA Kenya, PINGOs Forum, and the Pastoral Women’s Council—we’ve shared stories, strategies, and dreams for Africa’s food systems. But as the summit closes, one thing is certain: the work ahead is daunting, but our resolve is unbreakable.
What’s Hot: A Spark of Hope for Agroecology
Against all odds, agroecology is gaining momentum, not just in niche discussions but across the global biodiversity stage. Its formally referenced in Target 10 of the Global Biodiversity Framework, but increasingly being recognised as a holistic response cutting across all 23 targets. It’s a key step that has put our demands on the table. We affirm what farmers, Indigenous communities, and food sovereignty activists have known all along—agroecology is not only a way to grow food but a way to heal ecosystems, reclaim food sovereignty, and create resilient communities.
The Global Alliance for the Future of Food launched a new guide at COP 16, titled Boosting Biodiversity Action Through Agroecology. It’s a comprehensive toolkit to help countries integrate agroecology into National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs). The big question is how: will farmers and local communities be at the centre of policy development and ongoing implementation? What agroecology principles will be maintained; what red lines will not be crossed? The work now lies in country level negotiations and ensuring agroecology implementation and financing, across historically siloed policy making processes[1].