30. January 2025

A Journey Towards Sustainable Agricultural Supply Chains: Reflections from GFFA and Grüne Woche

Over the past two weeks, several events took place in Berlin, bringing together stakeholders from business, civil society, and politics, as well as the broader public. The discussions focused on sustainable approaches and solutions for global agriculture and food systems—including agricultural supply chains—in the context of global crises. Our SASI communications colleague, Nastaran Zarnegari, was on-site, engaging with representatives from German and international business, civil society, and politics. After participating in various panel discussions, she shares her reflections on the week in Berlin below.

As I stepped into the bustling atmosphere of Berlin in January for the Global Forum for Food and Agriculture (GFFA) and the International Green Week (Grüne Woche), I felt an overwhelming sense of optimism. This was a gathering of minds dedicated to shaping sustainable agricultural supply chains!

The GFFA opened with a compelling dialogue among distinguished experts from politics, business, science, and civil society. The theme, Shaping Sustainable Bioeconomy, resonated deeply with me as I listened to the insights shared by the panellists. Dr. Julius Ecuru, Principal Scientist at the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE) and Co-chair of the International Advisory Council on Global Bioeconomy (IACGB) in Kenya, provided a high-level introduction that set the stage for the critical discussions to follow. Alongside him, Dr. Christine Lang, Co-chair of the IACGB and founder of Organobalance GmbH, as well as Kaveh Zahedi from the FAO and Shobha Shetty from the World Bank, contributed invaluable perspectives on how bioeconomy can align with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Dr. Ecuru emphasized that sustainable, fair and inclusive agriculture is profitable!

Another message was clear: sustainable agricultural practices are essential for achieving food security while protecting our planet. This was especially message emphasized during a panel discussion on the topic of  "Bioeconomy and the Transformation of Agriculture and Food Systems." It was heartening to witness this commitment, reinforcing that we are all in this together, working towards a common goal.

United Voices: Insights from Business, Politics, and Civil Society

The International Green Week further amplified these themes, focusing on feminist and fair practices, sustainable supply chains, and innovative agricultural methods. It was particularly inspiring to hear from Ebun Feludu, the founder and CEO of KOKARI, who is setting new standards in ecological and social sustainability. Her initiative to plant one million coconut trees exemplifies how businesses can contribute positively to both the environment and local communities.

[Translate to EN:] Ebun Feludu, Dolmetscherin, Jonas Wipfler, Maura Oerding, Bärbel Kofler, Katie Gallus
GIZ/Nastaran Zarnegari

Maura Oerding, CEO of Kaffeekoop GmbH, captured my attention as she spoke about ensuring fair prices and recognition for women's cooperatives in Rwanda. Her dedication to social and economic development sheds light on the importance of visibility for the women behind the brands we love. These stories of resilience and empowerment highlight the profound impact that fair practices can have on communities.

I was also struck by the contributions of Jonas Wipfler from Misereor Berlin, emphasising the need for interdisciplinary efforts towards a just world order.

Christian Barthel, Andreas Pletziger, Sascha Steinbrück, Rabea Schafrick, Katie Gallus
GIZ/Nastaran Zarnegari

Claudia Brück from Fairtrade Germany provided insights into deforestation free supply chains, while Matthias Meißner from WWF underscored the critical need for biodiversity policies.

The presence of Ibrahima Coulibaly, President of the Pan-African Farmers Organization (PAFO), was a reminder of the importance of smallholder farming and food sovereignty, particularly in the West African region. His commitment to these issues illustrates the interconnectedness of sustainable agricultural practices, gender equality, and fair trade.

The From Field to Fanshop initiative also caught my attention, where leaders from various sectors, including Rabea Schafrick from BRANDS Fashion GmbH and Sascha Steinbrück from HSV, discussed the rising demand for fair and eco-friendly products. Their efforts to integrate sustainability into sports merchandise are commendable and reflect a growing awareness 

As I reflect on these experiences, it is evident that the partners and the Supply Chains Initiative are on the same page, working closely together for fair, inclusive, and sustainable agricultural supply chains. The passion and dedication of all those I met during these events give me hope for a future where people and the planet are at the forefront of agricultural practices. 

Together, we can create agricultural supply chains which are not only sustainable but also equitable, ensuring that everyone—farmers, producers, and consumers—benefits from the fruits of their labour. with the collective efforts of organisations, businesses, governments and individuals, I am confident we can make a meaningful impact.

Let us continue to champion these vital conversations and initiatives, as we strive for a better, more sustainable future for all.