The Pan-African Farmers Organization (PAFO) and its members organizations, namely: Eastern African Farmers Federation (EAFF), Plateforme Régionale des Organisations Paysannes d’Afrique Centrale (PROPAC), Réseau des organisations paysannes et de producteurs de l’Afrique de l’Ouest (ROPPA), Southern African Confederation of Agricultural Unions (SACAU), and Union Maghrébine et Nord-Africaine des Agriculteurs (UMNAGRI), are aware about the exceptional coronavirus situation spreading in the world and since last two weeks in Africa. Our sincere condolences to the families who have lost loved ones to this pandemic and our quick recovery prayers to the hospitalised.
In addition to the front lines of our “white” soldiers who provide medical and paramedical care to our fellow citizens, our farmers, the “green” soldiers of our Nations are on the front line to avoid food shortages and will ensure food security in this time of crisis.
The agricultural sector is a priority sector and the family farmers’ production system and supply of food products is an absolute priority during this period. African farmers have always been and will always be engaged and responsible for the continuity of the food production chain from their farm level.
African farmers are aware of their responsibility and intend to accomplish their mission while fully respecting the protection framework put in place by Governments. We will continue participating in creating awareness on control measures using different media platforms, double our efforts in on-farm activities to produce more food, supply the available markets and feed Africa.
Elizabeth Nsimadala
President of the Pan-African Farmers Organization