In this interview, the CEO of ASHENEWS (Agriculture, Science, Health and Environment), Abdallah el-Kurebe and the CEO of the Media for Environment, Science, Health, and Agriculture (MESHA), Daniel Aghan discuss the upcoming International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ) Congress scheduled for 2025 in Nairobi, Kenya. In the exclusive interview, Aghan emphasized that the congress marks a historic moment, as it will be the first IFAJ Congress hosted outside South Africa, showcasing Kenya’s unique agricultural and environmental innovations.
According to Aghan, MESHA’s vision for the congress is a platform to foster collaboration among African agricultural journalists. He highlighted the practical benefits the congress will offer, such as networking, knowledge-sharing, and addressing critical issues like climate-smart agriculture, food security, and sustainability. “This congress is Africa’s chance to demonstrate its capacity and resilience in agricultural journalism.”
The congress will feature a mix of field visits to agricultural sites, hands-on workshops, and discussions on topics pertinent to Africa, including the intersection of climate change and agriculture. Aghan invited African journalists to take advantage of the congress, encouraging them to seek sponsorship to ensure widespread representation.
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The interview discussed the importance of raising the visibility of African agricultural journalism where Aghan called for journalists to collaborate with their ministries and local organizations to amplify Africa’s role in global agricultural reporting. He also stressed the need for structural support, urging African journalists to proactively build partnerships within the sector. EXCERPTS:
What is the significance of the IFAJ Congress in global agricultural journalism, and why does it matter for journalists today?
The International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ) is a globally respected organization that promotes excellence in agricultural journalism. Established in 1958, it organizes an annual World Congress for agricultural journalists worldwide. In 2025, for the second time in its history, the Congress will be held in Africa, hosted by MESHA in Nairobi, Kenya. MESHA, established 20 years ago with a membership of 120 journalists and scientists across Kenya, is the most active science journalists’ association in Africa.
Why was Kenya chosen to host the 2025 IFAJ Congress, and what makes it a special location for this event?
Kenya is a leader in agriculture within Africa and globally, contributing significantly to its GDP and employing millions. Kenya has embraced innovation, utilizing technologies like mobile-based extension services and climate-smart agriculture, enhancing food security efforts. Hosting the 2025 Congress will highlight Kenya’s achievements and foster new partnerships.
How does the central theme of the 2025 Congress reflect the current challenges and opportunities in global agriculture?
The central theme of the 2025 IFAJ Congress, “Unlocking potential in the cradle of mankind,” underscores the need for sustainable practices and innovative solutions to address global agriculture’s pressing challenges, such as climate change, food security, and technological advancement, while leveraging opportunities for growth and resilience across diverse farming systems. The Congress thematic areas focus on Climate-Smart Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition, Agricultural Technology, Value Chain Development, Youth and Women in Agriculture, Sustainable Farming Practices, Policy and Governance in Agriculture, Agribusiness and Trade, and Health and Agriculture.
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In what ways will the IFAJ Congress highlight Kenya’s role in shaping African and global agriculture?
The IFAJ Congress will showcase Kenya’s pivotal role in shaping African and global agriculture through its innovative farming practices, commitment to sustainability, and leadership in addressing food security and climate change challenges.
What opportunities will the congress provide for collaboration between African and global agricultural journalists?
The media plays a vital role in agriculture, enhancing visibility and shaping public perception. The Congress will expand journalists’ networks, and increase their visibility. For Kenya, the Congress offers global recognition, knowledge exchange, agricultural growth, and farmer empowerment. It will also provide global exposure, strategic partnerships, thought leadership, and long-term engagement. Additionally, the congress will facilitate knowledge exchange among African and global agricultural journalists as well as strengthen partnerships.
How will the congress tackle the pressing issue of climate change and its impact on African agriculture?
The Congress will surely explore innovations and strategies for adapting agriculture to climate change, focusing on sustainable practices, resilience building, and reducing the environmental impact of farming.
ASHENEWS plans to provide comprehensive coverage of the IFAJ Congress 2025, spotlighting the congress’s significance in enhancing agricultural journalism across Africa.
