Latest news with #PatriceTalla
Zawya
04-07-2025
- Politics
- Zawya
Mauritius: South West Indian Ocean Fisheries Commission (SWIOFC) Member States strengthened regional cooperation for sustainable Tuna fisheries management
The Working Party on Collaboration and Cooperation in Tuna Fisheries (WPCCTF) from the South West Indian Ocean Fisheries Commission (SWIOFC), met in Mauritius to continue its work on strengthening regional cooperation for the effective management of tuna fisheries and other highly migratory fish in the region. The 13th Session of the WPCCTF brought together during two days (17-18 June 2025) 11 from the 12 SWIOFC countries - Comoros, France, Kenya, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, Somalia, South Africa and Tanzania. Partner organizations, namely the World Bank, the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC), the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), the Nairobi Convention - UNEP, the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and the South West Indian Ocean Tuna Forum (SWIOTUNA) attended the meeting as SWIOFC Observers. Other Regional Fishery Bodies – the Southern Indian Ocean Fisheries Agreement (SIOFA) and the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC)- actively participated in the discussion with members, specifically regarding SWIOFC compliance and reporting requirements. Patrice Talla, FAO Subregional Coordinator for Southern Africa, welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of the WPCCTF as a platform for dialogue and collective action, underscoring the need for coastal states to manage tuna stocks responsibly within their Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) and to collaborate regionally to rebuild overexploited stocks, particularly yellowfin tuna. Talla stressed the importance of strengthening national capacities to comply with Conservation and Management Measures (CMMs) and to implement effective Monitoring, Control and Surveillance (MCS) systems. Mbuli Charles Boliko, FAO Representative in Madagascar, Comoros, Mauritius and Seychelles, highlighted the significance of the Indian Ocean as the second-largest tuna-producing region globally, playing a vital role in supporting national economies and livelihoods. Boliko stressed that challenges such as Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, climate-induced migratory shifts, and external competition require a unified regional response grounded in science, cooperation, and shared commitment. The Working Party members acknowledged the progress made in the region, including the adoption and progressive implementation of the SWIOFC-led instrument, the MTC Guidelines, and the regional effort for jointly regulating and managing foreign fishing access for the best interest of the region. The MTC Guidelines (the Guidelines for Minimum Terms and Conditions for foreign fishing access) were officially adopted by all SWIOFC member countries in February 2019. WWF, a long-standing partner of the WPCCTF, presented recent work conducted on this subject, which was led by the Minimum Terms and Conditions Task Force (MTCTF) of the SWIOFC. This work received technical support from NFDS and focused on the joint and concerted actions required for the implementation of the priority provisions of the SWIOFC instrument, such as the provisions regulating licensing requirements, the use of Vessel Monitoring Systems (VMS), transshipments and compensations and access fees. Other subject thoroughly discussed was the cooperation between SWIOFC, SADC and IOC on regional Monitoring, Control and Surveillance (MCS) initiatives. The new workplan for 2025–2026 was adopted, and the WP formulated joint recommendations for the upcoming plenary session of the SWIOFC, scheduled to take place in November 2025. The event was supported by the SWIOFish5 TRANSFORM project, funded by the World Bank and implemented by IOC with technical assistance from FAO. The project, ending in 2030, has the objective of strengthening regional, evidence-based fisheries management in the region. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO): Regional Office for Africa.
Zawya
30-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Advancing agrifood systems transformation through effective digital technologies in Zimbabwe
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is advancing agrifood systems through integration of effective digital technologies in Zimbabwe. Through the Fostering Digital Villages Initiative (FDiVi), FAO hosted a Digital Fair in the Masvingo province. The digital fair brought together digital service providers, farmers, agri-entrepreneurs, and other stakeholders, creating a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange and real-time onboarding to digital agriculture solutions. The digital fair is part of the broader Fostering Digital Villages through innovative advisory and profitable market services project, which aims to transform agrifood systems in rural Malawi, Rwanda, and Zimbabwe using effective digital technologies, including artificial intelligence. 'This project facilitates delivery of innovative agricultural extension services for increased productivity, enhanced market access, and advance inclusive rural transformation. It will also support local farmers, extension officers, agro-dealers, and processors, particularly the youth and women,' said Patrice Talla, FAO Subregional Coordinator for Southern Africa and Representative to Zimbabwe. The digital fair held in the Bikita district is part of a series of the ongoing campaign by FAO targeting digital service providers, rural farmers, agri-entrepreneurs and other stakeholders to interact and integrate digital technologies in agriculture. The digital fair sparked renewed enthusiasm for digital transformation in agriculture among local communities. Speaking during the digital fair, Bernard Hadzirambwi, the District Development Coordinator, praised the initiative and encouraged farmers to adopt digital technologies to enhance productivity and resilience. 'Rural innovation thrives when communities connect and interact with digital technology,' said Hadzirambwi. 'During the digital fair, our farmers explored AI-powered advisory tools, mobile market platforms, and digital extension services. I am truly encouraged by how quickly the community is embracing these innovations. Digital technologies are not just tools, they are enablers of climate-smart agriculture and inclusive rural development in our district,' said Nobert Chiduza, District Agricultural Extension Officer in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development. The FDiVi is one of FAO's corporate initiatives and flagship programmes. It is an integrated development vision that enshrines digitalization at the core of rural transformation and prosperity, addressing on-farm and off-farm socio-economic elements. The project is being implemented in the Mhondoro-Ngezi and Bikita districts where digital hubs will be equipped with digital tools and services including free internet, computers and digital literacy training materials. The project supports local farmers, extension officers, agro-dealers, and processors through facilitating access to innovative agricultural extension services, improving market access, and promoting inclusive rural transformation. 'Before the digital fair, I didn't know how much technology could change the way I farm. Now, I've learned about AI tools that help me plan better, and I can connect directly with buyers through my phone. As a young farmer, this gives me confidence in exploring new opportunities posed through digital technologies,' said Sheunesu Njeke, a 26-year-old farmer after the digital fair. Going forward, FAO will integrate Digital Fairs in the annual District and Ward level Agriculture Shows. The project will continue to support digital innovators and entrepreneurs in breaking into the rural market and will also support farmers and other rural stakeholders to safely onboard onto digital platforms and services. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO): Regional Office for Africa.
Zawya
21-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) exhibits at the 2025 Zimbabwe International Trade Fair
The Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) is one of the largest inter-regional annual trade fairs in sub-Saharan Africa. The ZITF provides governments, private sector, development partners, research, academia and the public a multi-international expo platform for trade exchange opportunities in the region. Themed, "Industrialisation: Crafting an Integrated Economic Landscape," this 65th blue sapphire edition of ZITF will be held from 21 - 26, April 2025 in Bulawayo. As a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN) leading international efforts to defeat hunger, the Food and Agriculture Organization joins the Government of Zimbabwe, UN Country Team, Team Europe and other development partners in exhibiting and participating at this year's ZITF. 'This year, FAO will be hosting a series of side events and networking dialogues that complement the main exhibition, offering deeper insights, and discussions surrounding key themes and innovations implemented under the FAO Country Programming Framework 2022 – 2026. These events will go a long way in increasing knowledge and understanding the role of FAO in Zimbabwe,' said Patrice Talla, FAO Subregional Coordinator for Southern Africa and Representative to Zimbabwe.' Through participation at the ZITF, FAO will offer in-depth discussions and interactive sessions that align with the core mandate of FAO in Zimbabwe in alignment with national agrifood systems priorities. The dialogues and networking sessions on various thematic issues framed under FAO's key programme priorities will enhance stakeholder experience and provide a platform for interaction, learning, and collaboration. All side events and networking dialogues are structured through expert-led discussions and participatory conversations around project thematic focus areas, challenges, and opportunities. Participants will have the opportunity to share their thoughts and experiences to align FAO programming through expert-led and realistic interventions. The main objective of these side events is to enhancing FAO visibility while fostering networking and promoting knowledge sharing through presentations of project best practices to strategic key stakeholders, development partners and the public attending the ZITF,' said Tendai Munyokoveri, Assistant FAO Representative – Programmes. At this international platform, FAO will also join the UN country team in exhibiting under the One UN umbrella with the objective to increase knowledge and understanding of UN Zimbabwe agency contribution to the development of the country and its contribution to fulfilling the SDG targets through implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework and the Common Agenda for peace, people, planet and prosperity. FAO will exhibit under the PLANET PILLAR which focuses on environmental protection, climate resilience and natural resources management. At the 65th edition of the ZITF, Mr. Edward Kallon, the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, highlighted the transformative potential of businesses in agricultural development and food systems. He emphasized that food systems encompass crucial public policy decisions influencing dietary habits and the sustainability of local communities. Mr. Kallon stressed the importance of engaging businesses, youth, and communities in the food security and agriculture sector. He noted this area as vital, available, and opportune sector for growth that are critical for strengthening local food systems, sustaining community nutrition, and offering rewarding employment opportunities to Zimbabwe's vibrant youth population. Addressing the challenges faced by developing nations, including Zimbabwe, Mr. Kallon said, "A lot is weighed against developing countries' ability to shape food systems. In many cases, the essential financial and value chain systems are absent and must be constructed from the ground up." This highlights the urgent need for cohesive efforts in building resilient food systems that can drive economic growth and lift entire communities out of recurrent hunger and poverty. As Zimbabwe moves forward, the collaborative efforts of businesses, policymakers, youth, women and local communities will be pivotal in transforming food systems, fostering climate resilience, and achieving sustainable development goals. At the end of the ZITF, FAO will pull together resources to follow up on commitments and pathways of collaboration based on emerging issues from these dialogues while pushing the FAO development agenda with strategic partners in Zimbabwe. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of FAO Regional Office for Africa.
Zawya
16-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), European Union (EU) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) launch EUR 10 million initiative to accelerate the implementation of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Regional Agricultural Policy
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in partnership with the Southern African Development Community (SADC), has launched the second phase of the European Union (EU)-funded project Support Towards the Operationalization of the SADC Regional Agricultural Policy (STOSAR II). The launch, held in Gaborone, Botswana, marked a renewed commitment to advancing food and nutrition security, strengthening food security systems, enhancing climate resilience, and boosting regional agricultural value chains and market access across in the SADC region. The second phase builds on the achievements of STOSAR I, which was implemented from December 2018 to February 2024. Supporting the transformation of food systems STOSAR II aims to support the implementation of the SADC Regional Agricultural Policy (RAP) by enhancing institutional capacities, promoting regional integration, and supporting the transformation of food systems. Through this programme, countries will be better equipped to address key challenges affecting agriculture, including pests and diseases, climate change, under resourced value chains and limited market access. 'The STOSAR Project plays a pivotal role in operationalizing the SADC Regional Agricultural Policy (RAP), by enhancing agricultural productivity, inclusive value chains, and ensuring sustainable food systems that leave no one behind,' said Patrice Talla, FAO Subregional Coordinator for Southern Africa, during the launch. EU support for regional resilience and innovation The European Union is financing STOSAR II under its 'Development Smart Innovation through Research in Agriculture' (DeSIRA) initiative. This support underscores the EU's commitment to enhancing agricultural transformation and resilience in the region. 'The EU and SADC agreed to sign the STOSAR II programme for EUR 10 million, the goal of which is to contribute to a climate-relevant, productive, inclusive and sustainable transformation of agriculture and food systems,' said Clement Boutillier, Head of Development Cooperation, EU Delegation to Botswana and SADC. He added that 'By supporting regional integration through RAP, particularly in building regional value chains in the context of the global food crisis, the EU supports SADC countries to reduce dependency on external food imports and build resilient local systems.' Regional call for action Also speaking at the launch, the Acting Minister of Lands and Agriculture for Botswana, Edwin Gorataone Dikoloti, emphasized the need for collective action across the region. 'We must all join hands to build resilience and drive the transformation of our agrifood systems, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for agriculture in our region,' he said. 'STOSAR II is being launched in a time that the new CAADP process, guided by the Kampala Declaration, and approved by the African Heads of State and Government in January 2025, will also start to be operationalized. This process has shifted from pure agriculture focus to a wider agri-foods systems approach,' said Domingos Gove, Director of the SADC Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources (FANR) Directorate. Key components of STOSAR II to drive impact STOSAR II will focus on four strategic components which are: Enhancing agricultural information systems to support evidence-based decision-making and facilitate regional trade; Strengthening strategies for the management of plant and animal pests and diseases, with improved compliance with international Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) measures; Improving food and nutrition security monitoring and implementation capacity in SADC Member States; and Increasing the operational capacity of agricultural institutions and value chain actors to promote innovation and sustainability, including agro-ecological approaches. A collaborative start to implementation The launch took place during a four-day inception workshop attended by over 120 participants from all 16 SADC Member States. The workshop provided a platform to review the project's implementation framework and initiate the development of country-level work plans to ensure effective implementation. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of FAO Regional Office for Africa.
Zawya
15-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
New FAO project to boost agriculture trade between Zimbabwe and Mozambique
HARARE: In a move poised to strengthen agricultural trade and empower farmers, the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) is funding a EUR 3.5 million, Zimbabwe Mozambique Agricultural Value Chain and Trade Development Project (Zim-Moza ATDP), Zimbabwe will receive EUR 1.166 million of the total budget. In Zimbabwe, the Zim-Moza ATDP is implemented by FAO in close collaboration with the Department of Economics, Markets, and International Trade under the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development (MLAFWRD) and other key stakeholders across the agricultural production and trade sectors. The project's core mission is to accelerate the agrifood transformation process within and between Zimbabwe and Mozambique. By focusing on strengthening agriculture value chains, the Zim-Moza ATDP seeks to create opportunities for farmers and other players in the agriculture sector to actively participate in global value chains. Speaking at the project inception meeting in Harare, the FAO Subregional Coordinator for Southern Africa and FAO Representative in Zimbabwe, Patrice Talla, emphasized the transformative potential of the project. 'The Zim-Moza ATDP is a crucial step towards unlocking the immense potential of the agricultural sector in both Zimbabwe and Mozambique. By empowering smallholder farmers and fostering collaboration between public and private sector actors, we can create a more resilient and inclusive agricultural landscape.' The project will focus on assisting value chain actors, in both the public and private sectors, in implementing sound and favorable trade policies. This support will enable economic agents to capitalize on the concrete advantages offered by bilateral, regional, and international trade facilitating frameworks, particularly at a time when regional integration is gaining momentum across the African continent. 'This project is incredibly timely,' stated Obert Jiri the Permanent Secretary, in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, in a speech read on his behalf by Gamuchirai Kapembeza. 'The project is a key enabler in accelerating agrifood transformation processes in and between the two countries. In addition, this project aligns seamlessly with Zimbabwe's Agriculture and Food Systems Transformation Strategy as well as the National Development Strategies (NDS1 & NDS2), which prioritize productivity growth, value chain development and sustainable farming practices,' added Obert Jiri. The specific interventions under the Zim-Moza ATDP are expected to include: Capacity Building: Providing training and technical assistance to farmers, traders, and other stakeholders in the agricultural value chain to improve production techniques, post-harvest management, and marketing strategies. Market Access: Facilitating access to domestic and international markets through improved infrastructure, market information systems, and trade promotion activities. Policy Support: Supporting the development and implementation of trade-friendly policies that create a level playing field for all actors in the agricultural sector. Value Chain Development: Strengthening specific value chains, such as horticulture, livestock, and grains, by addressing bottlenecks and promoting innovation. FAO expressed its commitment to working closely with the Government of Zimbabwe, the Government of Mozambique, and the AICS to ensure the successful implementation of the Zim-Moza ATDP. 'FAO remains dedicated to supporting Zimbabwe and Mozambique by improving agriculture value chains and trade to ensure healthy nations free of hunger and malnutrition,' said Patrice Talla. The Zim-Moza ATDP marks a significant step forward in promoting regional agricultural development and trade. It is a testament to the commitment of Zimbabwe, Mozambique, the FAO, and the AICS to working together to achieve sustainable and inclusive agricultural growth. This project hopes to become a model for future collaborative efforts across the African continent. © Copyright The Zimbabwean. All rights reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( Staff Reporter
