The Economist group to address Africa’s role in solving the global food crisis

Nov. 12, 2012 - PRLog -- Feeding the World, part of The Economist’s summit series, is concerned with setting out a roadmap for a sustainable and equitable food chain. Research shows that by 2050, the global population will surpass 9 billion people. In addition to this, the world’s agricultural systems will face problems such as: food scarcity, water scarcity as well as climate change.

"Climate change, population growth, water shortages, and a lack of sound measures to anticipate the problem, have resulted in unprecedented levels of food shortages.” Said Marianne Mazou, Conferences Director Africa and Middle East at The Economist Group “our summit in Johannesburg has been designed to bring together a large number of key stakeholders in various sectors to identify key solutions to mitigate the damaging effects on future generations"

“Olam started working with small-scale farmers in 1989 - today we partner 3.4 million in Africa. One of the ways we address long-term food security is by reducing dependence on imports through integrated rice farming and wheat milling strategies.  Of course, there are other approaches and it is this breadth of experience convened by The Economist that can help Africa to identify workable solutions.” says Chris Brett, Senior Vice President of Olam.

Sullivan O’Carroll, Chairman and Managing Director, Nestlé South Africa adds, “We all have a role to play in eradicating hunger in Africa. With escalating food prices, we are forced to rethink our strategies. This challenge can be tackled though collaboration between all stakeholders and this conference provides a platform for sharing innovative ideas to deal with the problem.”

Confirmed speakers include:  Graça Machel, Founder and President, Foundation for Community Development, Howard-Yana Shapiro, Global Director, Plant Science & External Research, Mars, Sean de Cleene, SVP of Global Business Initiatives, Strategy and Business Development, Yara International, Sean Murphy, Managing Director Southern Africa, Kraft Foods, Sheila Sisulu, Deputy Executive Director, World Food Programme, Jay Naidoo, Chair of the Board of Directors, Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN).

Full speaker faculty and latest programme is available on summit website http://cemea.economistconferences.com/event/feeding-world-africa


Feeding the World is organised by Economist Conferences, a division of The Economist Group.

Sponsors of the conference are BASF and DHL with Ajinomoto and Sight and Life as exhibiting sponsors.

To become part of The Economist global discussion on Feeding the World, go to: Twitter @Economist_FTW and www.facebook.com/TheEconomistFeedingTheWorld