World Food Day: More about the Panel Discussion
- Leti Kleyn
- Oct 23
- 3 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
The Future Africa Research Leadership Fellowship II (FAR-LeaF II) Food Security Cluster hosted a virtual panel discussion to commemorate World Food Day on 16 October 2025. This panel brought together experts in agriculture, consumer science, environmental geography, plant breeding, and social science to explore how their combined expertise can lead to improved food production, equitable access, and environmental harmony.
The discussion highlighted how biophysical innovations (such as improved plant varieties and urine fertiliser) and social innovations (including behavioural change, waste prevention, and community empowerment) can work in tandem to achieve sustainable outcomes. The objectives of the panel discussion were to examine cross-disciplinary strategies for transforming agrifood systems toward sustainability and resilience; to highlight scientific and social innovations – from plant breeding to waste recovery — that can strengthen food and nutrition security; to discuss how collaboration among scientists, engineers, and communities can ensure equitable and sustainable food access; and to inspire collective action among policymakers, educators, researchers, and the public.
We asked panel moderator Dr Pearl Lefadola about the event.
What inspired the panel discussion, and how did the cluster work together to get everything in place?
The inspiration behind the panel discussion originated from the 2025 World Food Day theme, Hand in Hand for Better Food and a Better Future. We were motivated by the need to promote collaboration and shared responsibility in the sustainable transformation of Africa’s food systems. As a cluster, we worked closely from concept to execution – brainstorming discussion topics, designing the program flow, developing the event flyer, and coordinating logistics. Each member contributed their unique expertise, ensuring that the event reflected the collaborative spirit of the FAR-LeaF programme.
Who were the Panellists?
Dr Pearl Lefadola (Botswana) – Moderator
Dr Ololade Abdulrahman (Nigeria) is an agricultural extension specialist who works closely with farmers and communities to promote the uptake of new technologies and sustainable farming practices.
Dr Miriam Amewonwor (Ghana) is a fisheries specialist working on sustainable fisheries and the blue economy.
Dr Juliana Cheboi (Kenya) is a plant specialist with expertise in crop science, biodiversity, and plant-based food systems.
Dr Judith Adejoke Falola-Olasunkanmi (Nigeria), an expert in agronomy and resilient cropping systems, is helping to ensure sustainable food production.
Dr Shamala Lubobi (Kenya) is a plant biotechnologist whose work focuses on sustainable crop improvement, resilience to pests and diseases, and climate-smart agriculture.
Dr Gabriel Ndimbo (Tanzania) is a social scientist specialising in food security and the social dimensions of sustainable food systems.
Dr Jabulani Nyengere (Malawi), a geoinformatics and agriculture specialist, is transforming agriculture through spatial technologies and fertiliser management.
Dr Alassan Seidou (Benin) is an animal specialist focusing on pastoral resources and climate-smart livestock systems.
Dr Enoch Tham-Agyekum (Ghana), a media and mass communication expert, explored how effective communication can shape and strengthen our food systems.
Who was the target audience, and how did you reach them?
Our target audience consisted of researchers, students, practitioners, and policymakers interested in food security, sustainability, and the transformation of food systems. We primarily used LinkedIn to reach our target audience, enabling us to engage with a professional network across Africa and beyond.
The Zoom platform proved to be a practical and effective way to deliver our message and engage with participants from diverse regions. The only limitation we experienced was minor internet connectivity issues, which are common in virtual events. Overall, it allowed for broad participation and meaningful interaction. We had nearly 40 participants, representing various countries and diverse professional backgrounds. The diverse attendance contributed to a rich exchange of perspectives and experiences.
What was the overall message, and how was it perceived?
The key message emphasised the importance of collaboration and cross-sector partnerships in achieving sustainable and resilient food systems in Africa. The discussion highlighted the importance of integrating research, policy, and community engagement to achieve impactful and lasting change.
The discussion was insightful, engaging, and well-received by the participants. I would consider organising a similar session in the future, building on this experience to strengthen networks and expand the conversation on food security and sustainability in Africa.
Dr Pearl Lefadola
in discussion with Heidi Sonnekus | FAR-LeaF programme
