The Regional Agroecology Network for Southern Africa (RAENS) successfully convened its Annual Meeting in Lusaka, Zambia.

Agroecology researchers, policymakers, practitioners, and enthusiasts convened in Lusaka from 3–6 February 2026 for the four-day Regional Agroecology Network for Southern Africa (RAENS) Annual Meeting, strengthening regional collaboration around sustainable food systems.

Officially opening the meeting, Chief Guest Kapula Ndashe, Director at the Zambia Agriculture Research Institute under the Ministry of Agriculture, noted that the convening aims to jointly develop agroecology strategies that can meaningfully inform policy and practice across the region.

“Agroecology is not only a science, but a promise of food security, resilience, and sustainability for Southern Africa. This meeting is a celebration of shared achievements, a crucible for new ideas, and a platform to strengthen our collective resolve,” he said.
CIFOR-ICRAF’s Senior Ecologist, Rhett Harrison, emphasised the importance of strengthening the use of agroecology within farming systems, noting that evidence shows agroecological approaches can reduce dependence on synthetic chemicals that are costly and harmful to health, particularly for smallholder farmers.

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