Global summit in Nairobi to boost Africa's agri-food financing

More than 1,000 stakeholders from the public and private sectors are set to convene in Nairobi later this month for a global summit focused on unlocking sustainable financing for Africa's agri-food systems.

The Financing Agri-Food Systems Sustainably (FINAS) 2026 summit will take place from June 30 to July 2, bringing together policymakers, investors, development partners, financial institutions, agribusiness leaders, and researchers to explore strategies for transforming agricultural financing across the continent.

According to Paul Kipronoh Ronoh, Principal Secretary in Kenya's State Department for Agriculture, the summit will center on implementation, investment mobilization, and measurable outcomes aimed at reshaping Africa's agri-food financing landscape.

Ronoh said the summit's theme, "Towards Sustainable Financial Architecture for Africa's Food Systems," reflects the urgent need to strengthen agricultural financing mechanisms at a time when food security, climate resilience, and sustainable development remain top priorities for African countries.

"FINAS provides an opportunity to take stock of financing in the sector and assess whether our goals have been achieved. Building on the strong track record of previous editions, this summit will unlock key opportunities for Africa," Ronoh said.

He noted that while Africa has spent years identifying and defining the challenges facing its food systems, FINAS 2026 will focus on accelerating action and delivering practical solutions.

By aligning policy frameworks, financial resources, and strategic partnerships, the initiative seeks to unlock greater investment and generate tangible benefits for farmers, agribusinesses, and regional economies, he added.

Sophia Baumert, project manager for Sustainable Agricultural Systems and Policies at GIZ Kenya, described the summit as a key platform for fostering collaboration among stakeholders working to strengthen Africa's food systems.

She said partnerships between governments, development agencies, financial institutions, and the private sector are essential for building resilient, secure and sustainable agri-food systems capable of withstanding economic and climate-related shocks.

Climate-smart agricultural finance is expected to feature prominently at the summit, reflecting growing efforts to align agricultural investments with climate adaptation and mitigation goals while supporting long-term food security across the continent.

Organizers say the gathering will help advance discussions on innovative financing models, de-risking agricultural investments, and scaling up funding solutions needed to drive sustainable growth in Africa's agricultural sector.