Bioeconomy and sustainable development: preparing for G20 and COP30

Fueling sustainable development of Africa’s bioeconomy is both an opportunity and a pressing challenge.  Africa has a huge potential of biomass production and more than 40% of its population is involved in food production through agriculture. However, the continent is unable to benefit from the valorisation of its biomass. A lack of storage and processing capacity leads to significant losses, with international markets capturing the greatest share of added value.  

This session will evaluate how Africa can benefit more from its agriculture and forestry in a sustainable way that supports social development.  

The session will begin with a keynote address on the current state of the bioeconomy in Africa. The importance of agriculture and primary production will be explained, followed by an examination of the extensive indigenous knowledge concerning specific plants and the underutilisation of this knowledge. Representatives from industry will then discuss market opportunities in the sugar and forestry sectors.  

Through the final panel discussion, the presenters will issue a joint statement to the GIB and COP30 on the role of the bioeconomy in promoting sustainable development that benefits local communities.