Co-designing Agroecology farming concepts to increase food sovereignty in the Global South

Food sovereignty encompasses a community’s right to produce, access, and control food. It faces severe challenges in the Global South. Even though intensified peri-urban farming improves food system resilience, poverty reduction, and nutrition security in low- and middle-income countries, concerns rise about the potential adverse effects on health and the environment. A crucial question arises: ‘is there a future for small-holder farmers in the Global South?’ Applying the principles of Agroecology through a One Health approach can help address these challenges. Agroecology mimics natural systems, reduces reliance on external inputs and promotes local resilience and food sovereignty. The unique historical, social, and economic circumstances and the limitations of traditional development models should be recognized, and an inclusive approach that considers the agency and perspectives of local actors should be applied to address agroecology transition in Africa. Stakeholder engagement and co-creation are critical to designing and implement sustainable business models. This study aims to understand the current state of the African agro-food sector by starting from the needs, priorities, and challenges of all different stakeholders and recognizing the everyday struggles of African food sovereignty. We will conduct case studies in six countries: Morocco, Senegal, Nigeria, Burkina-Faso, Benin, and Ghana. Data will be gathered through interviews with agro-food actors in these countries and relevant reports and articles. The study has two objectives: (1) to identify stakeholders and their roles; and (2) to diagnose opportunities for value creation towards sustainable transition. Using the value framework Den Ouden developed, we will assess the potential for sustainable business models in agroecological farming. We will showcase our perspective on possible solutions to make agriculture more sustainable in Africa. The European Union’s Horizon 2020 program supports the research under grant agreement No. 101059232 – Project Urbane.