At the start of the “Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue 2024” (International Dialogue, Norman E. Borlaug), a world-renowned event on food security, several world leaders spoke about hunger in Africa.

At the center of the discussion were Akinwumi Adesina, president of the African Development Bank (AfDB), and Ajay Banga, president of the World Bank (WB), who emphasized the urgency of a joint effort and new financial solutions to combat food insecurity that affects millions in Africa.

The leaders of the continent's two main development banks highlighted the essential role of Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) in creating sustainable solutions to the challenges facing the African continent.

Adesina and Banga were speakers at the opening session, with the theme “Achieving a world without hunger”, where they discussed the impact of their institutions in ending food insecurity and exploring partnerships that can meet Africa's estimated annual development needs of around $1,3 billion.

For Adesina, cooperation between MDBs (MDBs) is crucial in mobilizing resources and creating far-reaching programs.

He advocated for the use of the International Monetary Fund's Special Drawing Rights (SDRs), which could strengthen banks' financial capacity to respond to Africa's challenges, multiplying resources and maximizing the impact of projects.

“This is how you transform capital into real change.”

“This is the way to recycle capital and do what is necessary.”

“Think about it.”

Adesina highlighted the importance of new approaches to raising and multiplying funds for food security.

Banga praised Adesina's leadership and vision and together they highlighted the “mission 300”, an ambitious initiative with the goal of providing access to electricity to 300 million Africans by 2030. This initiative demonstrates the impact that strategic collaboration can have on the continent, reinforcing the MDBs' commitment to essential infrastructure for development.

Adesina, the president of the AfDB, recalled that partnerships like this are fundamental, highlighting that “when you want to solve a problem, you work in partnership”. The leaders recognized that the success of projects such as the “mission 300” depends on inter-institutional cooperation and a unified vision for progress and prosperity in Africa.

One of the two leaders' main concerns was the participation of young Africans in agricultural development. With programs like "Enable Youth," the AfDB has encouraged youth involvement in the agricultural sector, leveraging the demographic dividend to promote rural transformation and food security on the continent.

The World Bank has also prioritized job creation for African youth, investing in initiatives that promote youth employment and increase the continent's economic potential.

Adesina warned of the risk of ignoring young people’s ideas, stating that “If we don't finance young people's ideas, this is the biggest risk.For Adesina, youth are key to the continent's food self-sufficiency. He says that without adequate funding for young people's ideas, there is a risk of wasting enormous potential.

Climate change poses another major challenge to agricultural development in Africa. Banga warned of the impact of climate change on food security, especially considering that only a small percentage of global climate finance is earmarked for African agriculture.

He highlighted the importance of initiatives that improve farmers' access to essential tools such as energy, technology, and credit, building a solid foundation for them to face the impacts of climate change.

“The emphasis must be placed on scale and ecosystems.”

Banga said, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive support that integrates multiple areas to improve the livelihoods of African farmers.

According to Banga, both the AfDB and the World Bank work to create employment opportunities that can strengthen rural communities. The creation of support systems for farmers that integrate education, energy, and technological resources helps them prepare to respond to the challenges that affect food production and security.

Organized by World Food Prize Foundation, the Borlaug Dialogue 2024, brings together experts from around the world to share innovative solutions to combat hunger. With the theme “Seeds of Opportunity, Bridging Generations and Cultivating Diplomacy”, this year's event promotes collaboration between generations and nations, encouraging a legacy of food security and sustainability.

Mashal Husain, Chief Operating Officer of the Foundation, highlighted the symbolism of this year's theme, stating that it represents “hope, innovation and courage to dreamThe idea is that the Borlaug Dialogue discussions will be more than just words and will plant real seeds of change.

During the Dialogue, Adesina focused on the importance and value of global alliances, mentioning the G20 Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty, where the AfDB and the World Bank collaborate to channel financial resources that can help Africa face hunger.

A "mission 300", for example, was cited as an essential project not only for the continent's energy development, but also for boosting local economies, creating a positive effect on communities.

In addition to financial partnerships, Adesina highlighted the impact that education and entrepreneurship programs can have on younger generations, empowering them to take leadership roles in critical sectors such as agriculture and innovation.

Banga reaffirmed his confidence in Adesina's leadership and joint initiatives, stressing that there is a six-year deadline to achieve the objectives of the "mission 300".

The Borlaug Dialogue 2024 provided an in-depth reflection on the steps needed to achieve food security in Africa. The event inspired participants from around the world to consider collaborative and sustainable solutions to ensure Africa can overcome food insecurity.

The presidents of the AfDB and the World Bank emphasized that success will depend on coordinated actions and genuine political and financial will that mobilizes both leaders and local communities. They left a clear message: eradicating hunger in Africa is a possible goal, but it requires coordinated global action, financial innovation, and the direct involvement of young Africans.

The MDBs' commitment to developing scalable and sustainable solutions for agriculture, combined with strategic partnerships, is a decisive step towards achieving food security and strengthening the African continent's resilience.