In Seoul, South Korea, on June 5th, 2024, President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe addressed the Korea-Africa Summit on “Strengthening Food and Mineral Security in Africa”.
His speech underscored the pressing need for collaboration between Africa and Korea to address the challenges of food insecurity and maximize the potential of the continent’s mineral resources.
The President commenced his address by highlighting the gravity of the food security situation in Africa.
Quoting the 2023 Africa Regional Overview of Food Security and Nutrition, he pointed out that nearly 868 million people on the continent experienced food insecurity in 2022, with 342 million facing severe food shortages. Despite Africa’s vast arable land, it struggles to feed its growing population due to various constraints, including sanctions faced by countries like Zimbabwe.
President Mnangagwa emphasized the importance of concrete cooperation between Korea and Africa in agriculture to harness Africa’s agricultural potential fully. He outlined Zimbabwe’s commitment to achieving food security through comprehensive strategies aligned with global and continental frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals, Africa Agenda 2063, and regional policies.
The President highlighted Zimbabwe’s focus on climate-resilient agriculture, support for smallholder farmers, promotion of regional trade, and investment in technology to enhance productivity. He stressed the role of dam construction and mechanization in rural industrialization and poverty alleviation, citing Zimbabwe’s experience.
Transitioning to mineral security, President Mnangagwa called for increased partnerships and investments from Korea to ensure equitable benefits for African communities rich in mineral resources. He emphasized the importance of leveraging technology and building beneficiation plants to maximize value.
Acknowledging Zimbabwe’s vulnerability to climate change, particularly the El Niño-induced drought, the President outlined strategies to mitigate its impact, including a wheat-based food security strategy and a sovereign insurance scheme for rural communities.
President Mnangagwa concluded by reiterating Africa’s commitment to forging partnerships with Korea. He expressed confidence in achieving food and mineral security through knowledge-sharing, resource mobilization, and capacity building.
The President’s address underscored the importance of international cooperation in addressing Africa’s pressing challenges and building a prosperous and sustainable future for the continent.
