Convergence Initiative inception workshop⎮ Photo:©️ Marguerite Papana/GIZ

Can food systems and climate action finally converge — not just in policy but in practice? Cameroon is stepping up to answer that question. With high-level political backing and international support, the country is laying the groundwork for a new, joined-up approach to sustainable development.

This ambition took a major step forward in February, when the launch of the Convergence Initiative in Yaoundé marked a milestone in Cameroon’s commitment to transforming its food systems and aligning them with climate action.

The initiative, led by the UN Food Systems (UNFS) Coordination Hub, aims to bring together the country’s food security goals and climate action objectives to build more sustainable and resilient foods systems. Co-organized by the Government of Cameroon, the UNFS Hub, and the UN system in the country, with the support of the GIZ, the event provided a platform for ministries and stakeholders to develop concrete actions for integrating food security, climate action, and scientific innovation into national policy.

Strengthening the Link Between Food Systems and Climate Action

The launch event brought together over 60 participants, including three key ministers from Cameroon’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife, Ministry of Livestock, Fisheries, and Animal Industries, as well as the secretary general of the Ministry of Environment, Nature Protection, and Sustainable Development. Their presence highlighted the collective national determination to integrate food systems transformation with climate goals, and to work together toward long-term sustainable growth.

Through workshops and discussions, participants developed a shared vision for converging food systems and climate action, ensuring national development outcomes align with international commitments, such as those under the Paris Agreement. This vision is outlined in the Convergence Action Blueprint, which includes specific objectives: Enhancing policy coherence, strengthening multi-stakeholder coordination, and unlocking financing and investment for sustainable food systems.

Key pillars of intervention have been identified for their potential for climate adaptation and mitigation at the intersection with food systems:

• The rice value chain, to increase food sovereignty and reduce emissions;
• Agroecological practices for sustainable resource management; and
• Reducing the reliance on food imports, thereby stimulating local demand and boosting economic resilience.

This coordinated effort between ministries responsible for food systems and climate action will ensure food-related issues are incorporated into strategic documents like the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), the National Adaptation Plan (NAP), and the Strategy and Action Plan for Biodiversity, which are set to be revised this year.

Bridging Science, Policy and Society

A third day was dedicated to the Science-Policy-Society Interface, another process coordinated by the UN Food Systems Coordination Hub. A new framework was introduced to enhance inclusivity in scientific research, policy development, and community engagement in Cameroon’s food systems agenda. The discussions emphasized the integration of science and traditional knowledge to develop context-specific, actionable solutions. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development expressed its commitment to expanding their engagement with civil society organizations, youth, and local communities to ensure that policies reflect diverse perspectives and real-world needs.

During the workshop, three priority areas were discussed:

1. The promotion of agroecological practices
2. The sustainable intensification of rice production
3. Addressing the negative impacts of agriculture on water resources. The outcomes will be reflected in the Convergence Action Blueprint

Looking Ahead: Boosting Visibility and Opportunities

Cameroon’s active participation in international food systems and climate action conferences has significantly raised its profile. With support from the GIZ’s project “Sustainable Agricultural Systems and Policies” (AgSys), the country engaged in high-level events such as the 52nd session of the Committee on World Food Security (CFS52) and the African Union’s conference in Kampala on the new Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP). These engagements positioned Cameroon as a key player in the convergence of food systems, biodiversity, and climate action and enabled its selection for the Convergence Initiative.

Throughout 2025, Cameroon will continue leveraging this momentum, with the support of the UNFS Hub and GIZ. Key milestones include the UNFSS+4 Stocktaking Moment in Ethiopia in July and COP30 in Brazil in November, where food systems will be a central theme. By actively participating in these global forums, Cameroon can further strengthen its role and access funding for bankable projects aligned with the goals of the Convergence Initiative and the CAADP.

Participants of the Convergence Initiative workshop including the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, the Minister of Forestry and Wildlife, the Minister of Livestock, Fisheries and Animal Industries, and the Secretary General from Ministry of Environment, Nature Protection and Sustainable Development⎮ Photo:©️ Marguerite Papana/GIZ

Additional information

Convergence Initiative

Contact

Alain Rousseau, Principal Technical Advisor at GIZ, alain.rousseau@giz.de