Stakeholders from the agro-forestry-pastoral and fisheries sectors are convening in Abidjan for the 7th International Exhibition of Agriculture and Animal Resources (SARA), which runs from May 23 to June 1, 2025. The event was officially inaugurated by Côte d’Ivoire’s Prime Minister, H.E. Beugré Mambé, at the Parc des Expositions.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is participating for the second time, with a delegation led by Ms. Massandjé Toure-Litse, Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture of the ECOWAS Commission. Invited by Côte d’Ivoire’s government, ECOWAS aims to showcase its agricultural achievements through an exhibition stand and eleven side events within the ‘Institutions and Sponsors’ cluster.
Under the theme “What agro-food processing systems for food sovereignty in Africa?”, SARA serves as a platform for stakeholders in agriculture, animal resources, and fisheries sectors across West Africa to exchange experiences. It is an opportunity for visibility and networking among visitors, investors, professionals, and national representatives.
This year marks ECOWAS’s second participation since 2023. Their goal is to enhance awareness about ECOWAS policies on regional integration related to agriculture while promoting initiatives that improve food security. “Our presence at this major event reflects the ECOWAS’ strong political will to support Member States in the sustainable transformation of their agricultural and food systems,” said Ms. Toure-Litse.
With a focus on “Driving food sovereignty agenda in West Africa: 20 years of implementing ECOWAP,” ECOWAS highlights its efforts over two decades under its Agricultural Policy (ECOWAP). Through exhibitions and panels organized by entities like the Directorate of Agriculture and Rural Development and Regional Agency for Agriculture and Food (RAAF), they emphasize efforts towards food security, climate resilience, and sustainability aligned with continental goals.