Toward sustainable food systems through Europe–Africa collaboration

Climate change, biodiversity loss, population growth, and urbanization are putting increasing pressure on food systems worldwide—particularly in Africa. There, food system challenges are especially concentrated in primary production but extend all the way to consumption. We are working to build sustainable local food systems.

We lead two international research projects focused on developing solutions for the sustainable production, processing, and consumption of nutritious, diverse, and affordable food in Africa. The HealthyFoodAfrica and SustInAfrica projects involve a wide network of partners from both Europe and Africa.

The HealthyFoodAfrica project, ending in spring 2025, has focused on improving nutrition in ten African cities. In the Food System Labs established within these cities, various methods have been developed and implemented, including urban farming techniques, school gardens, aquaculture facilities, improved hygiene training for street vendors, and awareness-raising around nutrition and the use of traditional crop varieties.

The SustInAfrica project focuses on the sustainable intensification of agriculture using both modern and traditional methods developed locally and in Europe. Techniques to combat pests, erosion, and drought are being tested by smallholder farmers and businesses in field trials across five countries in North and West Africa. Information is also being disseminated through creative approaches, such as educational theater.

The aim of both projects is to develop a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and potential solutions in food systems, and to widely disseminate knowledge and innovations to areas where change is needed most. By supporting local practices, we can enhance the sustainability of food systems. These projects contribute to the implementation of both the EU’s and Finland’s Africa strategies.