New York, New York – September 14, 2023 – The KAILASA Delegation had the distinct privilege of participating in the Agroecology Theme Day during the 78th United Nations General Assembly’s Science Summit on September 14, 2023.
This event, hosted at the Millennium Hilton New York One UN Plaza, brought together world leaders to deliberate on justice and equity in food systems. The conference room buzzed with activity as representatives engaged in profound discussions, including ambassadors from France, Costa Rica, Kenya, and Senegal.
The session was graced by a diverse array of speakers, both in-person and joining remotely, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas and insights. The event featured two separate round table discussions, providing a comprehensive exploration of the vital topic.
Keynote presentations were delivered by distinguished figures in the field:
* Fergus Sinclair, co-convenor of the Agroecology TPP and Chief Scientist at CIFOR-ICRAF.
* Dr. Jemimah Njuki, Chief of Economic Empowerment at UN Women.
The panel discussion included eminent personalities such as:
* H.E. Ambassador Gabriel Ferrero y de Loma-Osorio, Chair of the UN Committee on World Food Security (CFS), representing Spain.
* H.E. Ambassador Mrs. Sophea Eat, Permanent Representative of Cambodia to the United Nations (TBC).
* H.E. Prof. Bitange Ndemo, Kenyan Ambassador to Belgium and the EU.
Including Mr. Arthur Lima e Silva
Technology Specialist – AB InBev | United Nations –
Climate & Circularity Leader
The event’s moderation was expertly handled by Rachel Bezner-Kerr, a Professor in the Department of Global Development at Cornell University.
Additional highlights featured presentations on the implementation of CFS policy recommendations on agroecological approaches by Alex Awiti, Senior Agroecology Policy and Advocacy Advisor at CIFOR-ICRAF, and a reaction by Lany Rabagay, representing the Asian Farmers Association.
Another presentation, “Measuring what matters: Guiding principles for the holistic assessment of agri-food systems,” was delivered by Mary Crossland, a Livelihood Systems Associate Scientist at CIFOR-ICRAF, followed by a reaction from Mariana Wongtchowski, the Director of Caring for the Earth at the Porticus Foundation.
The KAILASA Delegation’s active participation in this event underscores its commitment to contributing to global initiatives focused on sustainability, equity, and food security. This engagement reflects KAILASA’s dedication to fostering positive change on a global scale, transcending geographical boundaries for the betterment of all.
