During IFAD's Global Farmers Forum in Rome, INOFO, the Intercontinental Network of Organic Farmers Organisations, took a prominent role in the event. With over 80 dedicated farmers' representatives from across the globe, FAFO 2024 became a dynamic platform for addressing pressing agricultural challenges and fostering collaboration. Thanks to diverse perspectives and discussions, participants seized the opportunity to engage with IFAD and other stakeholders, exploring pathways towards a more sustainable agricultural future.
The Intercontinental Network of Organic Farmers Organisations (INOFO), captured the spotlight at the 8th Global Farmers Forum (FAFO2024) hosted by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) in Rome, Italy, from 12th to 13th February 2024.
Gathering more than 80 passionate farmers’ representatives from organisations worldwide, FAFO 2024 was a vibrant two-day affair dedicated to tackling crucial issues, exploring diverse perspectives, and seizing opportunities in collaboration with IFAD and other key players in the agricultural arena.
INOFO played a key role in ensuring that agroecological and organic perspectives featured prominently throughout the deliberations. Their representatives actively contributed to panel discussions and interactive sessions, emphasising the significance of integrating ecological principles into agricultural practices.
Their efforts bore fruit as the FAFO 2024 statement echoed INOFO’s call to action, urging IFAD and the Governments of IFAD Member States to integrate smallholder agroecology and other sustainable and resilient practices, including organic farming, into all its projects and programmes. FAFO also championed the provision of substantial grants and funding to support climate-friendly agroecological practices, along with continued institutional support for women and youth. It highlighted exemplary models led by women and youth in climate-resilient farming, fishing, and pastoralism.
As part of its commitment to fostering dialogue and inclusivity, INOFO organised a side event focusing “Enabling youth to sustainably produce the food of tomorrow“.
The successful fishbowl session, which saw a broad and dynamic participation of young people from other producer organisations, provided a platform for youth and senior farmers to exchange insights, share experiences, and explore collaborative approaches to address challenges and opportunities in the agricultural sector.
INOFO reaffirms its dedication to promoting agroecological solutions and organic farming practices globally. Through constructive engagement with IFAD and a myriad of stakeholders, INOFO aims to advocate for sustainable agricultural development that places utmost importance on environmental stewardship, social equity, and economic resilience.