The objectives of the meeting among others were to provide an opportunity for various RUFORUM
governance organs to reflect on progress made on the implementation of different programmes and initiatives, and to provide an opportunity for scientists, researchers, and students to share their scientific findings and experiences. The continent was encouraged to ensure food security and sufficiency by leveraging on the expertise of its academics and universities. The clarion call was made by the president of Zimbabwe, His Excellency President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa at the official opening of the 18th RUFORUM AGM in Harare on Wednesday, 14th December 2022. President Mnangagwa reiterated the need for mind shift change within the continent for in order for food security to be achieved. “The mindset that Agriculture is for the primitive should change. Agriculture is not for the primitive. Agriculture is for the sophisticated and must be made lucrative in order to attract young people”, said President Mnangagwa, adding that the current situation in which is the net importer of food needs to be corrected, especially given the fact that the majority of the population on the continent earns a living from Agriculture. In his remarks, while officiating at the science conference, Zimbabwe’s Minister for Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation and Technology Prof. Dr. Amon Murwira encouraged scientists to act on the solutions and innovations from research and education. He further underscored the need for a deliberate movement of freedom. Freedom to use our resources as Africans to move the continent forward through investing in education 5.0 with industrialization at the center so as to create Jobs and solve challenges relevant to us as Africans. “The New science curricula should address value chain gaps which have hindered industrialization” noted Dr. Monica Musenero Musanza, Ugandan Minister for Science Technology and Innovation while addressing participants at a consultative meeting about the new Agriculture curriculum on the sidelines of the AGM. “Leaders don’t create followers; they create more leaders.” Tom Peters. In the same light, a new era for the Network started as Prof. Adipala Ekwamu handed over instruments of power to Dr. Patrick Okori after 18 years of Leadership.
