‘We will cooperate to deliver food security for millions.’ Yair Lapid
When you feel strongly about something, it’s always heartening to be among people who share this vision. This was our experience at the ‘Israel back in Africa? Challenges and Opportunities’ Conference organised by the Israeli Embassy in France and AJC Paris on 31st May. For an organisation dedicated to sharing Israel’s agricultural expertise with the world, the frequency and eagerness with which conversations veered towards agriculture was truly encouraging.
Held in the City Hall of Paris’ 16th arrondissement, the conference was an opportunity to reflect on the growing links between Israel and Africa. We were delighted to be able to contribute to this event, speaking alongside a host of influential and strategic stakeholders ranging from Yair Lapid (Israel’s Alternate Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs) to Iyinoluwa Aboyeji (the Founder of Future Africa).
David Chapot spoke on behalf of Volcani International Partnerships US and introduced Israel’s agricultural revolution. Referring back to the report co-authored by VIP with the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change and the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), David highlighted key lessons that can be drawn from the Israeli experience and implemented by African stakeholders. Whether it be its innovation system, a market-led approach to agriculture, farmer organisation or the role of government, Israel’s agricultural experience holds numerous valuable lessons for countries across the world. When considered alongside Israel’s cutting-edge agricultural expertise and its world-leading technological innovations, it becomes clear that Israel is uniquely positioned to contribute to agricultural transformation in Africa.
During the conference, Volcani International Partnerships - US, Inc. Board Member Lord Stuart Polak also signed an LOI with Releaf Inc’s Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer, Uzoma Ayogu. The LOI highlights the intention of Volcani International Partnerships US and Releaf to join forces to address African food security challenges through a seamless transfer of Israeli agricultural experience, expertise, technologies and innovation to produce sustainable and commercial results across Africa.
From left to right: Lord Stuart Polak (Board Member VIP US), Danielle Abraham (Executive Director, Volcani International Partnerships), Simon Seroussi (Spokesperson at the Embassy of Israel in Paris), Anne-Sophie Sebban-Bécache (Director, AJC Paris), Uzoma Ayogu, David Chapot