Invitation to the Scientific Roundtable Discussion on Advancing Food Processing in Africa: Challenges, Innovations and Opportunities

The Association of African Universities (AAU) and the International Union of Food Science and Technology (IUFoST) invite stakeholders to participate in the Scientific Roundtable Discussion titled Advancing Food Processing in Africa: Challenges, Innovations and Opportunities.

Date & Time: January 21, 2025 – 10.00 to 11.45 GMT / GHANA

Registration Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_xSrRehC5Qne6_WWUJJFhew#/registration

Overview

Food processing is a critical sector for Africa’s economic growth, food security, and sustainable development. As the continent continues to face challenges such as post-harvest losses, limited infrastructure, and inadequate access to modern technologies, there is an urgent need to harness innovations and leverage emerging opportunities.

This webinar aims to provide a platform for stakeholders across the food value chain to discuss pressing issues, share success stories, and explore strategies to drive progress. By addressing these challenges and unlocking potential in areas such as agro-processing, value addition, and digital transformation, the webinar seeks to contribute to building a resilient and competitive food processing sector in Africa.

Topics, Speakers and Facilitators

1. Scaling Up Traditional Food Processing Technologies in Africa: Professor Olusola Oyewole, Secretary-General of the Association of African Universities (AAU)
2. Positioning Processed and Ultra-processed Foods in Food Classification Systems – Policy and Regulatory Implications – Professor Samuel Godefroy, President of the International Union of Food Science and Technology (IUFoST)
3. A First Mile Approach to Building a Resilient and Competitive Food Processing Sector in Africa – Fred Kongongo, Industrial Development Officer/Project Manager at the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO)
4. Refining the Role of Processing in Food Classification Systems: Prof. Erich Windhab, Chair of the IUFoST Task Force on Food Processing for Nutrition, Diet and Health
5. Chair and Facilitator: Dr. Ogugua Charles Aworh, Immediate Past President, International Academy of Food Science and Technology and Fellow, African Academy of Sciences (FAAS)

Access further information on this webinar via this link – https://iufost.org/advancing-food-processing-africa-joint-scientific-roundtable-aau-and-iufost-invited-speakers

We extend our sincerest gratitude to all interested participants and eagerly anticipate your valuable insights and contributions to our upcoming webinar, where we will collectively explore innovative strategies for advancing food processing in Africa, driving sustainable growth, and fostering a brighter future for the continent.

Professor Olusola Oyewole

Secretary General Association of African Universities