By Staff Reporter
Solidaridad, in partnership with TrustAfrica, the World Resources Institute (WRI), and the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) Partnership, hosted a pivotal session at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, titled “Strengthening Agri-Food Systems: Opportunities to Fast Track NDC Implementation Goals”
As climate change continues to threaten Africa’s food systems, Solidaridad and its partners aim to showcase innovative, locally-led solutions that support small-scale farmers in building resilience. Smallholder farmers produce over 70% of Africa’s food supply but remain some of the most vulnerable to climate impacts. A recent study by Solidaridad revealed that 75% of African farmers lack access to resources needed to adapt effectively to climate change.
“Smallholder farmers are not just victims of climate change—they are central to its solutions. By providing tools, finance, and technology, we can transform their potential into scalable climate action,” said Nonsikelelo Nkomo, Business Development Manager at Solidaridad.
The session did spotlight strategies to unlock climate finance, transfer agri-technologies, and introduce and roll out digital tools to accelerate the achievement of NDCs. Discussions also emphasized on the critical role of women, youth, and marginalized communities in co-creating equitable and climate-resilient food systems.
Speakers at the session were Beatrice Makwenda, Programme Lead, Southern Africa, TrustAfrica/ Denis Jean Sonwa, Research, Data, and Impact Director, Africa, WRI,Sweeny Binsari, Regional Climate Change Lead, Solidaridad East & Central Africa and Nonsikelelo Nkomo, Business Development Manager, Solidaridad
Highlighting the importance of linking local solutions with global goals, said Sweeny Binsari, Regional Climate Change Lead, Solidaridad East & Central Africa: “Innovations like climate adaptation finance and carbon credit systems can inventive and unlock transformative opportunities for smallholder farmers. These tools not only empower communities but also accelerate global climate targets.”
This conversation is particularly relevant for Africa, where agriculture remains a cornerstone of livelihoods and economies. By fostering collaboration and innovation, the continent can transform its agri-food systems into resilient engines of growth that contribute meaningfully to global climate goals.
