From September 3 to 6, 2024, Rwanda is hosting the Africa Food System Forum (AFS) 2024, with Institut Catholique de Kabgayi (ICK) attending.
The forum, officially inaugurated by Rwanda’s Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente on September 3, is taking place at the Kigali Convention Center.
Africa Food System Forum is the world’s premier forum for African agriculture and food systems, bringing together stakeholders to take practical actions and share lessons that will move African food systems forward.
This year’s theme, “Innovate, Accelerate, and Scale: Delivering Food System Transformation in a Digital and Climate Era,” emphasizes the integration of digital innovations and climate-smart approaches to enhance food production, distribution, and consumption.
The forum underscored the importance of collaborative efforts, bringing together diverse perspectives to drive systemic transformation.
The event has drawn experts from various sectors including academia, industry, policy-making, entrepreneurship, and civil society. The aim is to develop a more sustainable and resilient food system across Africa through collaborative efforts and diverse perspectives.
Ms. Odile Mukeshimana, Head of Rural and Urban Development Department at ICK, highlighted the institution’s ongoing commitment to sustainable development and practical education.
“Participating in the Africa Food System Forum has allowed us to engage with global experts and gain insights crucial for shaping our curriculum and research,” Mukeshimana said.
She emphasized that the discussions on digital and climate-resilient food systems align with ICK’s mission to prepare students for the evolving needs of the food and agriculture sectors.
A focal point of ICK’s involvement is the Business Incubation Center of Kabgayi (BIKA), which is actively fostering innovation within the agro-food sector.
BIKA offers hands-on experience in food production, processing, and safety, bridging theoretical knowledge with practical application.
The center’s work on products, such as “Iyukunda Butunda ya Kabgayi” and “Iyukunda Banana Juice,” reflect ICK’s commitment to quality and sustainability.
The forum’s focus on food safety and sustainable practices aligns closely with BIKA’s mission. Initiatives like “From Waste to Wealth,” which tackles waste management and pest control, demonstrate ICK’s contributions to sustainable business models and community development.
The Africa Food System Forum has also provided ICK with valuable opportunities to deepen its understanding of food security and safety issues.
The insights gained are expected to enhance the institution’s academic programs and community impact.
By engaging with global food system discussions, ICK reaffirms its role as a leader in education and innovation, dedicated to equipping students with the skills necessary to address the complex challenges of food security, sustainability, and community development.