From December 12–15, 2023, the city of Kigali welcomed around 400 delegates from across the continent and beyond for the 5th African Organic Conference (AOC), some attended the conference physically and others attended virtually. a powerful convening focused on strengthening resilient and sustainable food systems in Africa through organic agriculture. The event, co-hosted by the African Organic Network (AfrONet) and the Rwanda Organic Agriculture Movement (ROAM), marked a defining moment for the organic sector in Africa. It gathered smallholder farmers, policymakers, researchers, entrepreneurs, youth, and global partners around a shared commitment: to accelerate the transition toward ecologically sound, farmer-centered, and economically viable food systems. Participants engaged in lively panel discussions, regional roundtables, and technical sessions across four core tracks: Farmers and Seed, Research, Policy, and Trade/Exhibition. From the exhibit floors to the seed-sharing circles, every conversation underscored the urgent need to reimagine agriculture in Africa moving away from chemical dependence and toward systems that respect biodiversity, enhance soil fertility, and empower communities. Key voices at the conference, including the Rwandan Ministry of Agriculture Representative from the Rwanda Agriculture Board (RAB), African Union (AU) representative, the IFOAM World Board, research institutions and farmer leaders, called for decisive policy action and greater investment in organic and agroecological solutions. There was consensus: Africa must embrace organic farming not as an alternative, but as a strategic response to climate vulnerability, economic instability, and malnutrition.

One of the most impactful outcomes of the conference was the strong push for inclusive certification systems especially Participatory Guarantee Systems (PGS) that ensure access and integrity for smallholder producers. These grassroots-led approaches are not only more affordable but also foster transparency, community trust, and stronger local markets. Special attention was given to the pivotal role of youth and women in organic agriculture. Sessions and workshops explored ways to reduce systemic barriers like access to land, finance, and training and to elevate their leadership in transforming food systems. Farmer stories from Ghana, Zambia, and Rwanda reminded everyone that innovation often begins at the grassroots. During the conference, it was an opportunity for different stakeholders to showcase their achievements through a side event where organic products from across Africa were exhibited to show that organic agriculture can not only be a source of safe and nutritious foods but also can be a mode of business to different entrepreneurs from consumed products to organic inputs.

The exhibition served as a marketplace for organic products and services, connecting producers, processors, traders, and consumers where the key features of this track likely included: Exhibition booths showcasing a diverse range of organic products, including food, textiles, cosmetics, and inputs. Networking opportunities for businesses and investors interested in the organic sector, Workshops and presentations on market trends, value chain development, and export opportunities. With an aim of promoting the commercial viability of organic agriculture, showcasing the diversity and quality of organic products while fostering market linkages and investment opportunities. ROAM’s leadership in hosting this continental event highlighted Rwanda’s growing stature in the organic movement. From supporting organic certification to advocating for climate-resilient farming, Rwanda is stepping forward as a regional champion of sustainable agriculture.

The conference concluded with a bold declaration of an actionable roadmap calling for stronger policies, inclusive markets, youth engagement, investment in research, and the protection of Africa’s rich seed heritage. It wasn’t just a list of goals. It was a shared promise. As ROAM, we are proud to have facilitated this milestone gathering. Our heartfelt thanks go to the Government of Rwanda, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources, AfrONet, our fellow organizers, and every farmer and partner who made this conference possible. Together, we are shaping a future where food production restores rather than depletes, where communities are nourished in every sense of the word. Looking ahead, the momentum from Kigali must not slow. The next AOC will carry this torch forward, but the work begins now in our fields, in our schools, in our policies. The 5th African Organic Conference reminded us that change is possible when it is collective. Let’s continue to sow the seeds of resilience, equity, and sustainability for Africa, and for the planet.