Embarking on Growth: Key Takeaways from the International Agri-Food Network (IAFN) and Private Sector Mechanism (PSM) Annual General Meetings

The International Agri-Food Network (IAFN) and Private Sector Mechanism (PSM), held their Annual General Meetings over the period June 10 and 11^th in a hybrid format, with the in-person segment hosted in Rome at the Hotel Capo d’Africa.

*IAFN Members with Mr. Lev Neretin, Team Lead for the Environment at FAO*

Over the two days, attendees participated in a series of meetings which included the AGM meetings and a cocktail reception. Additionally, five bilateral meetings were held with several Senior Officials at the FAO and the Chair of the CFS, H.E. Nosipho Nausca-Jean Jezile, Ambassador of the Republic of South Africa to FAO and the Rome-based agencies. These meetings provided a space for an exchange of views between the IAFN, PSM, and the FAO and discussions on how to increase engagement.

The Annual General Meetings allowed the Members to review activities against the 2024 workplans and discuss the upcoming 2025 activities. Delegates welcomed the progress being made in many areas including the endorsement of the Inequalities Negotiations Draft Policy Recommendations. The meetings were also an opportunity to plan for the second half of the year including participation and engagement at CFS52 and the World Food Forum both scheduled to be held at FAO Headquarters in Rome in October.

The meetings were incredibly valuable to IAFN and PSM’s continued engagement with FAO and CFS processes. Highlights from these meetings include learning more about how the private sector can engage more effectively at FAO.

Along with the meetings and events, the Annual General Meetings concluded with a well-attended reception sponsored by Rabobank, with 50 guests from Country Representatives and FAO Members.

CFS Chair H.E. Ambassador Nosipho Nausca-Jean Jezile speaking at the Reception noted the importance of engagement with the Private Sector and Vice Chair of the IAFN, Mary Boote, reiterated the commitment of the Private Sector to advancing shared goals with the FAO.