African Union Moves to Strengthen Food Safety with New Agency
The African Union has taken a decisive step in addressing food safety challenges across the continent by adopting the statute for the establishment of the Africa Food Safety Agency. This significant move was made during the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The decision marks a major milestone in strengthening food safety regulations, consumer protection, and trade facilitation under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), foodborne diseases affect 91 million people annually, resulting in 137,000 deaths, with Africa bearing a significant portion of the burden. The economic toll is also high, with the World Bank estimating losses of US$110 billion annually in sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia due to lost productivity and medical expenses. By creating the Africa Food Safety Agency, the African Union aims to coordinate and harmonize food safety policies, regulations, and risk assessment frameworks across its Member States.
African Union’s Commitment to Consumer Health and Trade
The establishment of the Africa Food Safety Agency aligns with the African Union’s goal of improving food safety governance while facilitating trade. It will serve as a Specialized Technical Institution dedicated to enhancing food safety standards across the continent. Harmonizing food safety regulations will not only protect public health but also create a conducive environment for intra-African trade.
H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, praised the decision, emphasizing that this step is crucial for building a more integrated and prosperous Africa. He noted that the agency would enhance food control systems, benefiting both consumers and traders. Similarly, H.E. Amb. Josefa Sacko, the outgoing Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment, reiterated the agency’s role in transforming Africa’s agri-food systems and increasing trade competitiveness.
The Africa Food Safety Agency will establish a continental food safety data hub and a rapid alert system to help Member States manage food safety risks effectively. It will work in collaboration with national food control agencies, Regional Economic Communities (RECs), research institutions, and international partners to ensure compliance with international food safety standards.
The Role of the Africa Food Safety Agency in Enhancing Food Security
The African Union recognizes that ensuring food safety is fundamental to achieving food security. The agency will play a key role in strengthening Africa’s food control systems by harmonizing policies, developing risk assessment frameworks, and coordinating food safety initiatives. This effort is expected to reduce the prevalence of foodborne diseases and enhance consumer confidence in African food products.
By working closely with the private sector, research institutions, and regional bodies, the agency will also help Member States adopt modern food safety technologies and best practices. This collaborative approach will contribute to building resilient food systems capable of withstanding emerging threats such as climate change and supply chain disruptions.
Boosting Africa’s Food and Agricultural Trade Competitiveness
The Africa Food Safety Agency is expected to enhance the competitiveness of African food products in both regional and international markets. By ensuring compliance with global food safety standards, the agency will help African exporters access new market opportunities while reducing trade barriers. This will be particularly beneficial under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aims to boost intra-African trade.
A unified food safety framework will encourage investment in the agricultural sector by providing a stable regulatory environment. It will also promote the adoption of good agricultural and manufacturing practices, thereby improving the overall quality of food products.
African Union’s Strategy for Fast-Tracking the Agency’s Operationalization
To ensure the successful implementation of the Africa Food Safety Agency, the African Union Commission has been tasked with fast-tracking its operationalization. This includes establishing the necessary governance structures, mobilizing resources, and engaging stakeholders at both the national and international levels.
The AU is calling on all relevant stakeholders, including governments, development partners, and the private sector, to support the agency’s establishment. This collective effort will ensure that food safety becomes a priority across Africa, reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses and enhancing public health outcomes.
A Historic Step Towards Food Safety and Public Health Protection
The adoption of the statute for the Africa Food Safety Agency represents a transformative moment in Africa’s journey towards improved food safety governance. With foodborne diseases affecting millions of Africans annually, the establishment of this agency will play a critical role in reducing health risks and economic losses.
By coordinating food safety policies, enhancing regulatory frameworks, and promoting best practices, the African Union is demonstrating its commitment to building a healthier and more prosperous continent. As Africa moves forward with this initiative, collaboration among governments, regulatory bodies, and private sector players will be key to its success.
The African Union’s decision to create the Africa Food Safety Agency is a game-changer in the region’s food safety landscape. By ensuring compliance with international standards and enhancing trade opportunities, the agency will help shape a future where African consumers can access safe and high-quality food products. As the continent embarks on this new chapter, the AU remains dedicated to protecting public health, fostering economic growth, and strengthening Africa’s position in the global food market.
African Union’s Vision for a Safer and Healthier Future
The African Union’s decision to establish the Africa Food Safety Agency is a crucial step towards strengthening food safety and trade across the continent. By harmonizing food safety standards and supporting Member States in building robust food control systems, the agency will significantly reduce foodborne disease outbreaks and enhance consumer confidence in African food products.
As the AU works towards operationalizing this landmark institution, it calls on all stakeholders to support its mission. Through collaboration and commitment, Africa can achieve its goal of ensuring safe food for all its citizens while unlocking economic opportunities in the agri-food sector.
The Africa Food Safety Agency will play a key role in transforming Africa’s food safety landscape, boosting trade, and ensuring a healthier future for millions of people across the continent.
