“Real transformation is when a system can govern itself — sustainably.”
— Jeffery Reid, World Food Programme
Held in Lomé, Togo, from 17–19 June 2025, the Agricultural Transformation in Practice workshop convened leaders from across Africa to explore what it truly takes to deliver sustainable agricultural transformation.
Organized in partnership with the World Food Programme’s TASC programme, the workshop brought together country-led Agricultural Transformation Offices (ATOs), government actors, technical partners, and delivery experts. The event created space for governments to engage on how to move from strategy to results — by building institutions and systems that can deliver at scale.
Highlights from the Event
• Comparative evidence shared from five ATO models across Africa, commissioned by AATI and presented by Bristle Pine.
• Field visit to Gboto Zévé ZAAP, where farmers shared how improved yields, incomes, and support services are transforming livelihoods.
• Honest peer reflections on what’s working, what needs adaptation, and the realities of delivering in complex environments.
• Agreement on common success factors: strong political ownership, clear mandates, local capacity, and early wins to build buy-in.
Emerging priorities for continued collaboration:
• Establishing a Community of Practice
• Developing a digital knowledge platform
• Hosting an annual learning event
• Supporting national alignment through cross-sector delivery dialogues
Why It Matters
While no two transformation journeys look alike, a shared lesson echoed throughout the event: real change happens when delivery is intentional. Countries need systems that can track progress, adapt in real time, and support institutions to lead from within.
This workshop affirmed that agricultural transformation in Africa is not only possible — it is already happening, and being shaped by the countries themselves.
