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05/11/2007 - How can African agriculture contribute more effectively to economic development and poverty reduction? Experts and government officials will be addressing such challenges at a meeting in Rome organised by the OECD, the World Bank, and the UN’s International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) on 12-13 November 2007. (see agenda)
Hosted by the Italian Ministry of Economics and Finance, the Global Forum on Agricultural Development and Poverty Reduction in Africa will look at the role of agriculture in economic development and poverty reduction, at future market prospects and at the impact of domestic reforms and international aid.
A news conference will take place at 12:15 on Monday 12 November at the Sala Biblioteca of the CNEL, viale David Lubin, 2, Rome, on the latest analysis of African agriculture and on the key issues being discussed at the Forum.
Speakers will include Pier Paolo Cento, Italy’s Undersecretary of state for economy and finance and representatives of the World Bank, OECD, FAO and IFAD. African experts as well as representatives of farm organisations, the private sector and development NGOs will also be available to respond to questions.
The Forum follows the release of the World Bank’s latest World Development Report which called for greater investment in agriculture in developing countries. It said providing incentives for farmers to diversify into high value horticulture, poultry fish and diary products could help reduce rural poverty. Other recommendations included greater investment in soil and water management in order to increase productivity of staple crops and so improve the livelihoods of subsistence farmers.
For further information about the Forum or to register for the press conference, journalists are invited to contact the OECD’s Media Division (tel: + 33 1 4524 9700).
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