The StEPPFOS project hosted its Virtual Knowledge Forum on Sustainable Food Systems from 20^th to 22^nd of May 2026, aiming to bridge the gap between research evidence and policy implementation across Africa’s agrifood systems. Under the theme “Linking Evidence, Policy, and Action,” the online forum convened policymakers, researchers, development partners, private sector actors, and civil society organizations to address the continent’s food and nutrition security challenges. Discussions centered on strengthening evidence-based policymaking and fostering regional collaboration to drive sustainable, inclusive food systems. Key thematic highlights included digital innovation, climate adaptation, nutrition, food safety, continental trade, agricultural financing, and youth and gender inclusion.

Innovation Spotlight 2: Food Safety Systems & Data Platforms

The FS4Africa project on May 21^st, 2026, took center stage during Day 2 of the event. This segment of the forum focused on “Nutrition, Food Safety, Value Addition & Sustainable Food Systems Transformation,” where the FS4Africa team led the “Innovation Spotlight 2: Food Safety Systems & Data Platforms” session. The full Day 2 broadcast is available on YouTube, and the specific FS4Africa session can be viewed from the 40:00 onwards.

During the session, our team presented FS4Africa’s innovative food safety solutions, demonstrating how digital platforms, data systems, and multi-stakeholder approaches can bridge the gap between policy and implementation while strengthening food safety across African markets.

The session was structured to showcase FS4Africa’s mission, core use cases, and technical breakthroughs to participants:

• Welcome and Introduction: The session began with a welcome note and introductory remarks from Olumodupe Banwo (IITA), setting the stage for the discussions to come.
• FS4Africa Project Introduction: Following this, FS4Africa Project Coordinator Dr. Titilayo Falade (IITA) provided an essential baseline overview of the FS4Africa project

 

Roundtable Session: Use Cases, Stakeholder Mapping, and Open Calls

Facilitated by Mrs. Olumodupe Banwo (IITA), this roundtable featured three distinct pillars of the project:

• Stakeholder Mapping: Dr. Rose Omari (CSIR) shared insights from a comprehensive analysis, visualizing the complex network of Africa’s informal food sector.
• Use Cases: Dr. Sabine Desczka (WR) introduced the project’s four dedicated use cases focusing on the informal sector.
• Open Calls: Ms. Natasa Koufaki (RFF) talked about the project’s financial support mechanisms through open calls.

Technical Exhibitions

Following the panel discussion, technical exhibitions took place. This segment showcased the FS4Africa data platforms for traceability, networks and knowledge sharing.

• Benjamin Emmanuel (UniBw M) showcased the Digital Platform for food safety and traceability.
• Dorra Fiani (KEF) presented the Africa Food Safety Operators Network, a valuable resource for African union member states and operators.
• Fabiola Rezende (Ubuntoo) presented the FS4Africa digital knowledge platform.