IFC 12th International Food Safety Forum

Food security remains a critical challenge in Africa, with significant implications for public health, economic development, and environmental sustainability. The continent faces unique challenges in ensuring food safety, reducing food loss and waste, and enhancing food fortification. Food safety is crucial for Africa’s agricultural transformation, especially given the continent’s rapid population growth and increased demand for food.

The World Bank Group’s Global Challenge Programs, including the Food and Nutrition Security Program, aim to enhance food and nutrition security through replicable and scalable approaches. Within its key action areas of focus, IFC plays a crucial role in mobilizing private capital to finance the scaling up of high-impact solutions. IFC supports Africa's agribusiness sector by boosting food security and farmer incomes through sustainable, inclusive, and efficient private sector solutions.

On June 5, 2025, IFC in partnership with the Global Affairs Canada | Affaires mondiales Canada, the Global Agriculture and Food Security Program (GAFSP), the Facility for Investment Climate Advisory Services (FIAS), and Rootooba Limited hosted the IFC 12th International Food Safety Forum in Nairobi, Kenya.

The Forum addressed critical issues of food security in Africa, highlighting ways to support these efforts by sharing knowledge, best practices, and innovative solutions.

Aligned with the theme of the 2025 World Food Safety Day, "Food Safety: Science in Action," the Forum offered a valuable opportunity for IFC to showcase its support for food safety and security and to engage with current and prospective partners.