Africa’s food systems are at a critical moment. Rapid urbanization, climate change, malnutrition, limited access to quality seed, and growing pressure on natural resources are creating new challenges for farmers, communities, and cities across the continent.

At the same time, Africa has an enormous opportunity to transform its food systems through crops that are already deeply rooted in local diets, economies, and farming systems.

At the Africa Food Systems Forum (AFS) 2026, the International Potato Center (CIP) will highlight the potential of root and tuber crops (RTCs), including potato, sweetpotato, cassava, and other crops, to contribute to more resilient, nutritious, and inclusive agrifood systems.