African tapestry: Climate, crops, and culture - A Moroccan perspective
Channel: SOAS University of London
Date: 12/02/2024

The event organised in collaboration with Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland brings together scholars, practitioners, policy makers, students, and enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds. 

Africa is often considered as the world’s breadbasket with an estimated 60% of the world's uncultivated arable land located on the continent. The agriculture sector accounts for 35% of Africa's GDP and employs more Africans than any other sector. However, the continent remains a net importer of food and still faces a multifaceted challenge in eradicating hunger.

Global supply disruptions have exacerbated existing pressures on African food systems, with a disproportionate impact on the most vulnerable communities. Also, despite being the least responsible for the global climate crisis, African countries are facing significant consequential economic challenges, potentially reducing their GDP growth rate by up to 64% by the end of the century.  

In this session, the speakers will explore Africa’s potential to tackle the interconnected effects of climate change and food systems transformation to achieve two crucial Sustainable Development Goals: zero hunger and climate action. This panel will also shine a spotlight on Morocco’s approach in driving sustainable food system transformation while taking decisive climate action at the continental level.