Because no agri-food transformation can succeed without the dedication of rural men and women, PARM honoured their invaluable contributions at the Africa Food Systems Forum (AFSF) 2025 in Dakar, Senegal. At the Forum’s Agri-Food Expo, PARM set up a dedicated booth showcasing the inspiring artworks created for the PARM Art Challenge: Food Heroes.
From 31 August to 4 September, delegates from across Africa, including students, farmers, policymakers, researchers, development partners, and private sector representatives, were drawn to PARM’s booth in the vibrant exhibition zone. The display featured striking portraits of “Food Heroes” alongside their respective illustrated artworks, serving as a powerful entry point to highlight the essential role of farmers in driving progress towards Zero Hunger (SDG2) and building more sustainable food systems worldwide.
A highlight of the exhibition was the visit of Dr. Mabouba Diagne, Senegal’s Minister for Agriculture, Food Sovereignty, and Livestock, who joined other Forum participants in exploring the booth.
The exhibition was not only a celebration of creativity and resilience but also a space for meaningful dialogue. In a context marked by recurring climate shocks, increased market volatility, persistent financial exclusion, and a multitude of systemic risks, agricultural productivity and food security in Africa remain seriously threatened, particularly affecting smallholder farmers’ livelihoods. By displaying information about PARM’s comprehensive process and activities, including agricultural risk assessment, project design, capacity building, and knowledge sharing, the exhibition underscored how empowering smallholder farmers through agricultural risk management (ARM) can contribute to strengthening the sustainability, stability, and inclusiveness of African food systems. It also highlighted the urgent need for greater investment in ARM.
Through this initiative, PARM reaffirmed its commitment to raising awareness and mobilizing action, calling upon African and global leaders to invest more in smart agri-risk management, so that agriculture can become more viable, attractive, and resilient for generations to come.
Take a look at the photos from the exhibition and relive the event as if you were there.