Adesina and Banga Rally Global Action Against Hunger at 2024 Borlaug Dialogue

In an impactful start to the 2024 Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank Group, and Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank, underscored the urgent need for enhanced global efforts to combat hunger in Africa. Their remarks came during the opening plenary session, titled "Achieving a Hunger-Free World," on October 29, where they highlighted the detrimental impact of conflict, economic instability, and climate change on food security.

Both leaders reaffirmed their organizations' dedication to eliminating food insecurity in Africa, showcasing innovative partnerships and financial strategies. Adesina emphasized the crucial role of Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) in this endeavor, stating, "There is nothing more important than feeding the world." He pointed out that international financial institutions are vital for advancing these goals.

In a discussion facilitated by Roger Thurow, a senior fellow for global agriculture at the Chicago Council on Global Affairs, Adesina and Banga explored the transformative potential of MDBs to meet Africa's annual development needs of $1.3 trillion. Adesina introduced the concept of leveraging resources, suggesting that Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) could multiply resources significantly when funneled through MDBs.

Banga commended Adesina's leadership and shared optimism for joint initiatives like "Mission 300," aimed at providing electricity to 300 million Africans by 2030. Adesina emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating, "When you want to solve a problem, you work in partnership."

Both leaders stressed the necessity of involving Africa's youth in agriculture, with initiatives like the African Development Bank’s "Enable Youth" program and the World Bank’s focus on youth employment aimed at harnessing the continent's demographic potential for agricultural and economic growth. Adesina cautioned, "If we don’t put finance behind young people’s ideas, that’s the biggest risk."

Hosted by the World Food Prize Foundation, the Borlaug Dialogue brings together global experts to inspire innovative solutions to hunger. This year's theme, "Seeds of Opportunity, Bridging Generations and Cultivating Diplomacy," emphasizes collaboration and hope in the pursuit of food security.

Adesina highlighted the significance of partnerships like the G20’s Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty, in which the African Development Bank and the World Bank collaborate to utilize SDRs for hunger alleviation. He reiterated the ambitious goals of Mission 300, stating, "We have six years to get it done."

Addressing climate change and its impact on farmers, Banga noted that only 4% of global climate financing is directed toward agriculture in Africa. He called for scalable solutions to support small farmers, advocating for a holistic approach that includes access to energy, internet, and credit guarantees.

Earlier, Mashal Husain, Chief Operating Officer of the World Food Prize Foundation, expressed optimism for achieving the goal of ending hunger worldwide, stating, “That seed represents hope, innovation, and courage to dream. This week at the Borlaug Dialogue, we are not just talking about the seeds of opportunity. We are planting them.”

Adesina’s schedule at the Borlaug Dialogue includes participation in the Africa Agriculture Dialogue and engagements with the presidents of Sierra Leone and Tanzania, as well as a session with Global Youth Institute students and alumni. He will also lead a high-level panel discussion on "Bold Measures to Feed Africa."