European Commission continental seminar on food security - Africa

After a series of 5 regional seminars in the past 3 years, the European Commission launched a continental approach with the main objective for exchanging on food security lessons learned, opening to representatives of regional organisations, UNs, and NGOs among the main regions of Africa. The objectives of the seminar are:

• To promote the policy dialogue on Food Security in Africa and consolidate EC food security strategies, approaches and practices in the context of the CSPs, RSPs and the Food Security Thematic Programme 2007-2010 (Session 1)

• To analyse the required conditions for disseminating 'good' food security practices from one region to others based on case studies (Session 2);

• To discuss how to effectively implement the link between relief, rehabilitation and development (LRRD), as well as cross-cutting LRRD issues specific to the 3 regions of the continent, which may affect EC cooperation in the field of Food Security (Sessions 2 &3);

• To discuss with key partners and stakeholders pragmatically how to improve the strategic dialogue and use of information for a better, more appropriate response in Food Security. Emphasis will be given to food security information system and Early Warning, Needs assessment, Nutrition, food aid and non food aid responses, institutional strengthening and innovative support;

• To discuss the need for thematic support provided by EC to countries and regional bodies.