African Island Nations Unite to shape a stronger agrifood future

African Small Island Developing States are stepping forward with renewed ambition to reshape their agrifood systems, strengthen climate resilience and unlock the promise of the blue economy.

From 3 to 5 March 2026, under the theme “Big Ocean States leading the wave of agrifood systems transformation.”, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations will host the African SIDS Solutions and Investment Forum 2026.

The gathering will bring together ministers, parliamentarians, regional institutions, investors, private sector leaders and research bodies to mobilise partnerships and finance for sustainable growth across Cabo Verde, Comoros, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritius, São Tomé & Príncipe and Seychelles.

African island states face distinct pressures. Their distance from major markets drives dependence on imported food and raises transport and energy costs. Fragile ecosystems are increasingly exposed to rising sea levels, erratic rainfall and powerful storms. Global disruptions in trade, health and geopolitics have added further strain. Yet these nations are also centres of creativity and opportunity. Fisheries, aquaculture, tourism, youth enterprise and digital innovation all offer room for resilient growth.

The Forum will launch a new Ministerial and Parliamentarian Network for African SIDS and present the second phase of the Regional Hand in Hand Investment Initiative. It will also showcase solutions shaped by the Interregional Technical Network. The aim is clear: strengthen cooperation, improve the design of climate smart agrifood and blue economy investments, and attract public and private capital.

Built on detailed technical analysis and wide consultation, the FAO African SIDS Programme focuses on governance, sustainable agrifood systems, blue transformation, stronger value chains, empowerment of women and young people, and innovation. These priorities align with global and African development agendas while reflecting growing regional political momentum.

By connecting credible projects with investors and decision makers, the 2026 Forum seeks to turn evidence into action and ensure that Africa’s island states lead their own sustainable transformation.