A Transformational Week in Kigali
From April 22–25, 2025, the Pan-African Farmers’ Organization (PAFO) proudly hosted a dynamic Training of Trainers (TOT) session in Kigali, Rwanda.
The event brought together passionate participants from across Africa, including leaders in their fields from East, West, Central, North, and Southern Africa. Over four days, they strengthened their skills in climate change adaptation, agroecology, advocacy, and negotiation.
Organized with the support of FAO, IUCN, AgriCord, and other key partners, this training represented an important step forward in building farmer-led climate resilience across the continent.
A Practical, Farmer-Centered Approach
Unlike many theoretical trainings, this session was designed for action and immediate application. Participants learned how to:
- Understand the science and local impacts of climate change,
- How to Engage with national climate plans such as NDCs (Nationally Determined Contributions),
- Promote agroecological farming practices that sustain both the environment and livelihoods,
- Advocate effectively for farmers at national and international platforms.
Moreover, the learning experience was highly interactive. Through lively group discussions, real-life case studies, role plays, and team exercises, trainees stayed actively engaged and were able to connect global climate strategies directly to their community realities.
New Climate Champions Certified
At the end of the program, participants were proudly awarded their Certification of Achievement.
These newly certified trainers are now prepared to go back and lead climate resilience initiatives, promote agroecology, and advocate for farmer-centered climate policies across Africa.
As one participant from the zimbabwe enthusiastically stated:
“This training is a turning point. We are not only fighting for food security—we are fighting for dignity, sustainability, and the future of our continent.”
Furthermore, the spirit of determination and hope was evident throughout the closing ceremony, as participants committed to applying their new knowledge back home.
Why It Matters for Africa
Africa’s smallholder farmers are undoubtedly on the frontlines of climate change. Despite their vulnerability, they often remain excluded from climate policymaking and negotiations.
Therefore, PAFO’s training addresses this critical gap by equipping farmer leaders with the knowledge, tools, and voice needed to advocate for themselves and their communities.
Dr. Babafemi O. Oyewole, CEO of PAFO, emphasized the importance of this approach:
“African farmers must be seen not just as victims of climate change, but as solution providers—and today, we have certified a new wave of leaders ready to make that case.”
Indeed, empowering farmers strengthens the entire foundation of Africa’s food security and economic resilience.
Looking Ahead
Moving forward, the certified trainers will:
- Advocate for inclusive climate policies at all governance levels,
- Promote agroecology as a vital solution for sustainable farming and rural resilience,
- Contribute directly to Africa’s broader agricultural transformation goals.
In addition, PAFO will continue to follow and support these champions through follow-up in their upcoming projects, ensuring that the seeds planted during this training grow into powerful change across the continent.
Through initiatives like this, PAFO remains committed to building a greener, stronger, and farmer-led future for Africa.
Stay tuned for inspiring updates as our new trainers begin their vital work across Africa!
Together, we cultivate resilience, innovation, and hope.
#PAFO #ClimateLeadership #Agroecology #FarmersFirst #ClimateSmartAgriculture #ResilientAfrica
New Climate Champions Certified
At the end of the program, participants were awarded Certification of Achievement.
These newly certified trainers are now ready to lead climate resilience efforts, promote sustainable farming practices, and advocate for policies that protect farmers and food systems across Africa.
As one participant from Uganda put it:
“This training is a turning point. We are not only fighting for food security—we are fighting for dignity, sustainability, and the future of our continent.”
Why It Matters for African Smallholder Farmers
Africa’s smallholder farmers are on the frontlines of climate change. Despite their vulnerability, they are rarely included in climate decision-making.
PAFO’s training directly addresses this gap by equipping farmer leaders with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to influence national, regional, and global discussions.
Dr. Babafemi O. Oyewole, CEO of PAFO, shared:
“African farmers must be seen not just as victims of climate change, but as solution providers—and today, we have certified a new wave of leaders ready to make that case.”
Looking Ahead
The certified trainers will now:
- Support local and regional farmer organizations,
- Host peer learning and training sessions,
- Advocate for climate policies that put farmers first,
- Contribute to Africa’s agricultural transformation through agroecology and innovation.
Through initiatives like this, PAFO continues to empower farmers as key drivers of sustainable development and climate resilience in Africa.
Stay tuned for inspiring stories from these new climate champions in the months to come!
Together, we grow a stronger, greener Africa.
#PAFO #ClimateLeadership #Agroecology #FarmersFirst #ClimateSmartAgriculture