Resilient food systems are not just a goal-they are the lifeline for vulnerable communities facing the brunt of climate change. At COP29, FANRPAN amplified the voices of those on the frontlines while shaping global strategies for sustainable agriculture.

During the Nordic Council panel discussion, “Voices from the Frontlines: How Lived Experiences Inform Bold Decision-Making for Resilience and Climate Justice,” stories of environmental defenders and conservationists inspired a call for policies rooted in lived realities. These narratives underscored how informed decision-making can bridge the gap between local challenges and global solutions, fostering resilience and climate justice for the most vulnerable. A key example was FANRPAN’s advisory note, published in the wake of the El Niño phenomenon that devastated Southern Africa, which offered evidence-based recommendations for mitigating climate impacts on food systems. The note guided policymakers in designing strategies to strengthen food security and climate resilience across affected regions.

At the 3rd Agri-Food Systems Summit, FANRPAN joined leaders to reimagine agri-food systems. The summit catalyzed innovation in addressing water scarcity, enhancing biodiversity, and mobilizing investment. FANRPAN’s contributions highlighted successes from initiatives like the CBA SCALE+ Project and the ClimBeR Initiative, which prioritize community-driven approaches and empower local champions to advocate for inclusive, climate-smart solutions.

FANRPAN’s presence at COP29 was pivotal in forging strategic partnerships with global leaders, researchers, and policymakers. By cultivating collaborations across sectors, FANRPAN is advancing its mission to ensure evidence-based policies drive food systems transformation and build resilience across Africa.