Empowering cooperatives to reshape agrifood systems in the NENA region

A significant meeting organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) is currently taking place in Casablanca from January 28 to 31. The event is dedicated to empowering cooperatives to transform rural and agrifood systems throughout the Near East and North Africa (NENA) region.

The primary objective of this gathering is to enhance opportunities for cooperatives by improving policies, strengthening their capacities, and advocating for sustainable development. These initiatives aim to drive inclusive growth in rural locales while addressing pressing issues such as food security, climate change, and economic inequality.

Jaouad Bahaji, Director-General of Morocco’s National Office of Agricultural Council, emphasized the pivotal role of cooperatives in mitigating social inequalities and generating economic opportunities in rural communities. Ahmad Mukhtar, FAO’s Senior Economist for the NENA region, underscored the deepening collaboration between FAO and ICA. He mentioned that a recently signed memorandum of understanding reaffirms their dedication to positioning cooperatives at the heart of efforts to fulfill the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Balu Iyer, ICA’s Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, portrayed cooperatives as "agents of transformation," highlighting their capacity to tackle critical challenges through inclusivity, innovation, and strategic partnerships.

The event includes various activities, such as a compilation of successful cooperative practices from the region and a poster exhibition that showcases innovative strategies. These initiatives are designed to facilitate knowledge exchange, networking, and learning about effective cooperative models among the participants.

On the second day, attendees will have the opportunity to visit local cooperatives to witness their operations firsthand and engage with cooperative leaders about their achievements and hurdles.

The meeting is expected to culminate in a comprehensive roadmap that outlines collaborative efforts among governments, cooperatives, and development partners. This roadmap will emphasize joint actions, policy formulation, and the establishment of long-term partnerships aimed at transforming rural and agrifood systems in the region.