Promoting Responsible Investment in Agriculture to Spur Food System Transformation

The UN Food Systems Summit +2 Stocktaking Moment (UNFSS+2) took place from July 24–26 in Rome, Italy. Building on conversations and commitments made during the 2021 Food Systems Summit, the event was an opportunity for countries to get together, share their progress, and bolster action to transform food systems. IISD hosted a virtual side event during the second day of the UNFSS+2, exploring the links between responsible investment in agriculture and food system transformation.

As recognized during the 2021 Food Systems Summit, increased private sector investment is critical for successful food system transformations. But this investment needs to be "responsible." It should contribute to sustainable development by generating positive socio-economic and environmental impacts, such as improved food security and nutrition, better-protected ecosystems, and more sustainable use of natural resources. It should also respect, protect, and promote human rights—including the rights and interests of local communities.

IISD is working with several governments and non-state actors in Africa and Southeast Asia to develop laws and policies that encourage responsible investment in agriculture in their countries. We are also working with the private sector and civil society organizations to develop the tools and capacity they need to engage in responsible agricultural investment. These efforts, which are being undertaken through inclusive, multi-stakeholder engagement, are important catalysts for attracting the types of investments needed to transform their food systems effectively.

ABOUT THE EVENT

This side event provided an opportunity for representatives from the governments of Kenya and Indonesia to share their experiences in promoting responsible investment in agriculture and explain how these efforts support national food system transformation and sustainable development objectives. Representatives from the private sector and civil society organizations also provided insights into how they engage with and support such investment. We reflected on how their collective efforts can lead to legal, policy, and institutional environments that are conducive to responsible investment goals.

SPEAKERS  

• Christine Kanini, Deputy Chief State Counsel, Office of the Attorney General, Kenya
• Dr. Ir. Leli Nuryati, Director for Center of Plant Variety Protection and Agricultural Licensing/ASEAN-RAI Focal Point of Indonesia Ministry of Agriculture
• Andi Ikhwan, Director of Programs – Agriculture, Entrepreneurship, and Financial Inclusion, Mercy Corps, Indonesia
• Peter Wangara, Director and Founder, LIMBUA Group Limited, Kenya

MODERATOR

• Nyaguthii Maina, International Law Advisor, Agriculture and Investment, IISD

This was an official virtual side event to the UNFSS+2, which took place on Tuesday, July 25, 2023. More information on the UNFSS+2 can be found here.