Sterling One Foundation has partnered with the Agriculture Summit Africa (ASA) to advance food security across the African continent. This high-profile event, organized by Sterling Bank in collaboration with the Benue State government, African Union, International Finance Corporation (IFC), Leadway Assurance, and other key stakeholders, will take place in Abuja from November 11-12, 2024. This year’s theme, *“Transitioning from Scarcity to Security,”* reflects the summit’s mission to address Africa’s food security challenges.
Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO of Sterling One Foundation, highlighted the importance of ASA as a platform for collaborative solutions to Africa’s food insecurity. “At Sterling One Foundation, food security is a key focus, and ASA’s mission aligns with our goal to empower smallholder farmers, especially women and youth, through skill-building, financial support, and market access,” Ibekwe explained. She emphasized that equipping these groups can build resilient agricultural systems and enhance sustainable growth in African communities.
Ibekwe pointed out that agriculture remains central to African economies and livelihoods. “Strengthening the resilience and productivity of Africa’s agricultural sector is essential to overcoming food challenges and ensuring sustainable growth,” she added. Sterling One Foundation’s Agriculture Support Program for Rural Women Farmers and Youth Agro Development Program (YAD) are key initiatives that empower vulnerable groups. These programs provide technical training, financing, and market opportunities, helping boost yields, create jobs, and promote innovation within the agricultural ecosystem.
ASA will feature panel discussions and strategic conversations with leaders from the public, private, and third sectors, focusing on actionable strategies to address Africa’s agricultural challenges and build a sustainable future for all.
Sterling One Foundation remains committed to addressing food security through impactful solutions that empower communities, support inclusive growth, and create resilient agricultural systems across Africa. The foundation’s work spans five critical sectors: climate action, health, education and youth development, gender equality and empowerment, and food security, striving to tackle the root causes of poverty in Nigeria and across Africa.
