The session delved into the challenges and implications of accessing nutritious food for individuals and communities. During the session, the speakers and panel explored the multifaceted factors contributing to a healthy diet’s cost, including affordability, availability, and cultural considerations. The speakers explored the intricate relationship between food prices, dietary choices, and public health outcomes. Attendees gained insights into the challenges individuals and communities face in accessing nutritious food, particularly in vulnerable populations. Moreover, the session also examined strategies and interventions to address these challenges, such as policy changes, community initiatives, and innovative food production and distribution approaches. By emphasizing the importance of affordable healthy food options, the session aimed to inspire collective action and foster collaborations that can lead to a more equitable and sustainable food system.

Moderator

• Dr. Susan Kaaria, Director, African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD)

Keynote Speaker

• Mr. Stanlake Samkange, Senior Director, Strategic Partnerships, World Food Programme (WFP)

Framing Remarks

• H.E. Reuben Mtolo Phiri, Minister of Agriculture, Zambia

Panel discussion 1: Access and affordability

Speakers

• Hon. Ummy Ally Mwalimu, Minister, Ministry of Health, Tanzania
• Dr. Obai Khalifa, Deputy Director, Africa, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Director of Agricultural Development, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF)
• Prof. Joachim von Braun, Professor at the Center for Development Research (ZEF), Bonn University & AGRA Board Member
• Ms. Afshan Khan, Assistant Secretary-General, United Nations, Coordinator of Scaling Up Nutrition (SUN) Movement
• Mr. Emmanuel Ampadu, Co-Founder & COO, Pure and Just Co, Ghana

Panel discussion 1: Inclusive Diets

Speakers

• Mr. Ishmael Sunga, CEO, the Southern African Confederation of Agricultural Unions (SACAU)
• Ms. Elizabeth Swai, CEO, AKM Glitters Company Limited, Tanzania
• Ms. Gladys Mugambi, Head, Division of Family Health and SUN Movement Executive Committee Co-Chair
• Ms. Elizabeth Imbo, Country Project Manager – Nutrition in City Ecosystems, Syngenta Foundation
• Dr. Lunna Kyungu, Senior Technical Advisor Organization; Centre for Counselling, Nutrition and Health Care (COUNSENUTH)
• Ms. Betty Kibaara, Director, Food Initiative, Rockefeller Foundation

View photos from the event.