With over 25% of the world’s arable land and only 10% of global agricultural output, the continent represents one of the last global frontiers for large-scale agricultural development, with the potential to feed a significant proportion of the world’s population. If not well planned, however, such developments have the potential to negatively impact on important ecosystems, such as forests, woodlands and freshwater systems, not just affecting the livelihoods and economic benefits derived from such resources, but also affecting the very food systems’ resilience to climate change.

WWF’s call is, therefore, for food systems that capitalize on Africa’s agricultural potential, but preserve the core ecosystem functions (also known as ‘Natural Capital’) needed for long term sustainability and climate resilience, protecting the long-term food security and livelihoods and economic opportunities for Africa’s people.