Arusha, Tanzania – 20 October 2025
The first day of the Regional Training Workshop on Agroecological Produce Trade and Knowledge Hub Development in the EAC Region set the stage for a transformative learning experience focused on redefining production and trade systems through agroecology.
From Conventional Agriculture to Sustainability
Participants began by examining the global and regional context of agriculture and its impacts on food systems, climate, and trade. The discussion underscored that agriculture, while essential for livelihoods, is also a significant driver of greenhouse gas emissions, biodiversity loss, and soil degradation. Over 97% of farms globally are smallholdings under 2 hectares, yet they produce about 50% of the world’s food. In Eastern Africa, agriculture employs up to 80% of rural populations, with women providing the majority of agricultural labour.
The session emphasized that industrial and input-intensive models have failed to deliver inclusive, sustainable growth, and that the shift toward agroecological production offers a viable, climate-smart alternative.
Understanding Agroecology: Science, Practice, and Social Movement
Agroecology was defined as a science, a set of practices, and a social movement integrating ecological principles with social equity and cultural identity. Participants explored the 10 elements of agroecology (FAO) and the 13 principles of sustainable food systems (HLPE-SFS), which collectively guide efforts toward resilient, equitable, and regenerative farming.
The session highlighted that agroecology:
- Enhances soil health, biodiversity, and carbon sequestration.
- Reduces dependence on external inputs by promoting closed nutrient cycles.
- Values both scientific and indigenous knowledge systems.
- Places smallholders at the centre of decision-making and market participation.
A comparative analysis between conventional agriculture and agroecology revealed that while industrial farming relies on chemical inputs and global supply chains, agroecology is rooted in local resources, circular economies, and community empowerment.
Linking Agroecology to Trade and Market Systems
The afternoon discussions explored how agroecology supports regional food security, inclusive trade, and value chain development under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Participants examined how certification and labelling of agroecological products can improve competitiveness, traceability, and consumer trust.
Specific attention was given to MSME trade potential, highlighting the need for:
- Climate-resilient infrastructure for small producers.
- Business development services to enhance export readiness.
- Public-private partnerships and blended finance mechanisms to scale green investments.
Group Work: Designing Cross-Border Agroecology Deals
Country teams identified 2–3 key agroecological products—such as honey, millet flour, and organic spices—where they hold comparative advantages. They analysed production and trade dynamics, discussed key constraints such as certification costs and border delays, and proposed strategic actions to strengthen cross-border trade.
Recommendations included establishing regional certification frameworks, developing eco-labelling standards, mapping trade corridors and buyers, and creating digital systems for SPS and NTB reporting to improve Transparency and efficiency.
Key Takeaways
By the end of Day 1, participants had:
- Deepened their understanding of agroecology principles and their relevance to trade.
- Identified opportunities for agroecology-based MSMEs in regional markets.
- Recognized agroecology as a pathway to resilience, inclusion, and sustainable growth.
The session concluded with a reflection on the paradigm shift needed to align trade, production, and environmental systems — ensuring that economic growth evolves within the planet’s ecological boundaries.