“Agroecological Transition: Taking Action in Our Territories, Transforming Policies to Guarantee Food Sovereignty in West Africa.” This is the theme of the 3rd Regional Forum on Agroecology, Organic Agriculture and Sustainable Agriculture in West Africa, which will take place in Senegal from February 1 to 5, 2027. Organized in a hybrid format, the event will bring together various stakeholders committed to transforming agricultural and food systems across the region. The Alliance for Agroecology in West Africa (3AO), the West Africa Organic Network (WAFRONET) and ActionAid are behind this third edition, which aims to consolidate regional momentum in support of the agroecological transition and food with financial support from ECOWAS, the AFD, and the EU. Following Guinea-Bissau, which hosted the first edition, and Nigeria, host country of the second forum, Senegal is now taking over to welcome this new regional gathering. The third forum aims to serve as a regional platform for consultation, experience-sharing and the promotion of innovations developed across local territories. It also seeks to strengthen synergies among stakeholders and amplify the voices of those driving the agroecological transition in West Africa. Discussions are expected to bring together a wide range of stakeholders, including producers and farmers’ organizations, young people, women, researchers, civil society organizations, public policymakers, as well as technical and financial partners. Beyond sharing initiatives and experiences, the forum will highlight key issues relating to the evolution of agricultural policies, the promotion of organic and sustainable agriculture, and the development of more resilient food systems. Through the chosen theme, the organizers are placing local dynamics and public policy transformation at the heart of the discussions. The objective is to strengthen the links between local initiatives and regional and national policy directions, in order to make the agroecological transition a key driver of food sovereignty for West African countries. The February 2027 gathering in Senegal is therefore set to be a major moment of regional mobilization around the future of agriculture, the preservation of natural resources and the sustainable transformation of food systems across West Africa.

Babacar Sene
Journal Agropasteur