Non-state actors gather in Nairobi to strengthen CAADP biennial review report

Kenya — Non-state actors from various African communities have convened in Nairobi to strengthen and utilize the results of the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) biennial review report, writes Charles Mkoka.

The goal of the meeting is to build a shared vision and identify practical next steps toward agricultural transformation in Africa by 2025.

The biennial review report is a powerful advocacy tool at the continental, regional, and national levels for triggering policy actions for agricultural transformation.

The report is not only a reporting exercise for the heads of state and government summit but also a learning exercise that countries use to adjust their national agriculture investment plans.

Panduleni Elago, a senior CAADP adviser at the African Union, called for a more coordinated approach during the learning process among non-state actors present to ensure that CAADP is mainstreamed in developing planning at both national and regional levels.

Constance Okeke, a strong CAADP advocate from ActionAid International under ECOWAS non-state actors, underscored the need for more inclusivity to ensure diversity of participation with a view to mobilizing civil society groups on the entire African continent through their regional economic blocs.

Henry Augustus Roberts, Chairperson for the ECOWAS NSAs Platform, highlighted the importance of data collection, which is a crucial aspect when measuring progress on the indicators on the biennial review scorecard as a key component of the agriculture transformative agenda.

African governments adopted the Malabo declaration on accelerated agriculture growth and transformation. They set 2025 as the vision for agriculture, implemented with the CAADP framework as a vehicle to implement and achieve the first ten-year plan implementation plan of Africa Agenda 2063.

Members states are committed to mutual accountability for results and actions. This and other commitments are met by conducting a biennial agriculture review process.

The review involves tracking, monitoring, and reporting on implementation progress in achieving the provisions of the Malabo Declaration.

Mutual accountability within the biennial context translates to stronger political will.

“It is a concern to note that some members of parliament are saying they are not aware of the CAADP issues and BR issues," explained Elago during the one-day session.

"Almost close to a decade after the launch, issues to do with the biennial review are still elusive among some key policymakers in most countries, as per the feedback received from some of the parliamentarians.”

Okeke sounded the alarm to ensure a more unified approach.

“We must be prepared that we all walk together in this process. If we want to walk alone, then be prepared to walk quietly away from this room.”

The meeting has gathered participants from the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC), the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), and the East African Community (EAC).