Heydon to take part in EU-African agri ministers conference
Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Martin Heydon will participate in a major conference today (Friday, June 27) that brings together agriculture ministers from the EU and the African Union (AU).
The conference takes place in the Italian capital Rome, at the headquarters of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations (UN).
As well as being attended by agriculture ministers from the EU and the 55 member states of the AU, representatives from international organisations will also take part.
Speaking ahead of the conference, Minister Heydon said: "Ireland is committed to supporting enhanced cooperation between the European Union and African Union, particularly in the context of the AU's Kampala Declaration [the bloc's long-term agriculture strategy] and the EU’s Vision for Agriculture and Food.
"Building resilient, sustainable agri-food systems are central to this objective, particularly in addressing the twin challenges of climate change and food security."
At the conference, Minister Heydon will take part in a panel with the theme of "Supporting science-to-policy sustainable agri-food systems across Europe and Africa", which will explore the use of data and research to inform policy and support agri-food systems transformation.
According to the minister, it is important to build stronger bridges between science and policymaking.
He said: "Research, innovation, and access to high-quality data are essential tools in designing smarter policies.
"Through networks like the Pan-African Network for economic Analysis of Policies, we can learn from each other and co-create solutions that serve farmers, rural communities, and consumers on both continents."
Towards the end of the conference, delegates will reflect on the day's discussions and agree next steps to enhance cooperation and partnerships between the African Union and the European Union.
Minister Heydon will also hold bi-lateral meetings with FAO director-general Qu Dongyu, as well as ministers from Senegal and South Africa, the leadership of the African Union, and the Global Network Against Food Crisis.
The minister's participation in the conference comes as a call for applications for funding under the Africa Agri-Food Development Programme (AADP) was announced.
Since 2012, the programme has supported Irish companies to develop commercial ventures through partnerships across the African continent, including in the development of agricultural value-chains; market-testing animal and crop health products; sustainable horticulture; and dairy and cheese production.
The programme offers Irish and African agri-food businesses the opportunity to receive matched grant funding of up to €100,000 for commercial feasibility studies, or €250,000 for joint commercial projects.
The funding call is open until August 15.
