In November 2024, ROAM welcomed an extraordinary gathering of thinkers, doers, and change-makers united around one purpose: transforming Africa’s food systems through agroecology. From November 25 to 27, over 50 participants from across the continent convened in Rwanda’s capital for the African Food Systems Transformation Collective (AFSTC) Gathering, a first of its kind in-person event that championed African-led solutions for sustainable agriculture. Organized by the African Climate Foundation (ACF) in collaboration with the UNESCO Chair on African Food Systems and hosted by the Rwanda Organic Agriculture Movement (ROAM), the gathering brought together researchers, grassroots organizations, philanthropic actors, and government leaders in a powerful show of commitment to building a food future that is not only productive, but just, resilient, and regenerative.

The gathering was a vibrant exchange of knowledge, where 18 issue briefs developed by African scholars were presented and refined through collective dialogue. These briefs spanning themes from agrochemicals to gender equity to indigenous food systems offered deeply rooted insights into the realities shaping African agriculture today. In workshops and world café-style sessions, participants worked collaboratively to strengthen these briefs ahead of their presentation to philanthropic partners, reinforcing the value of evidence-based, context-driven advocacy. Beyond dialogue, participants had the chance to witness agroecology in action. Field visits to exemplary local initiatives like La Ferme du Lac, Dukunde Kawa Musasa Cooperative, Agropy Ltd, and Sina Gerard’s Urwibutso showcased how sustainable farming, youth empowerment, gender inclusion, and value addition are not abstract ideals, but living, thriving realities.

For the Rwanda Organic Agriculture Movement, it was an honour to host this gathering in a country where organic and agroecological principles are steadily gaining ground. From seed to soil, farm to fork, we saw first-hand how Rwandan innovation is contributing to continental resilience. What stood out most was the collective spirit, the recognition that transforming food systems isn’t the task of one actor, one government, or one organization. It’s a shared journey. And the Kigali gathering made it clear: Africa already has the solutions; what’s needed now is collaboration, investment, and political will to scale them.

Heartfelt appreciation goes to the African Climate Foundation, the UNESCO Chair, and all delegates and facilitators who contributed their time, expertise, and passion. Special thanks to our local hosts, funders, and community partners who ensured the success of this milestone event. As we look to the months ahead, ROAM and the broader AFSTC network are more energized than ever to carry forward the momentum. From policy engagement to farmer training, from research to market development, we remain committed to building a food system that is as nourishing as it is sustainable.Together, we are not just growing food we are growing futures. Let us continue to cultivate resilience, celebrate innovation, and shape an Africa where every harvest reflects our shared values of equity, health, and ecological harmony.