WFF Colombia Youth Chapter contributes to national dialogue on agrifood systems transformation

From 21 to 22 April 2026, the World Food Forum (WFF) Colombia Youth Chapter participated in the national workshop, “Building the next generation of leadership in Colombia’s agrifood systems”. Convened by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of Colombia, the United Nations Food Systems Coordination Hub and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the workshop brought together youth organizations, government institutions, researchers, civil society representatives and international partners working on agrifood systems transformation in the country.

The workshop focused on strengthening collaboration through the Science–Policy–Society Interface (SPSI) approach, creating space for dialogue between scientific, policy and community actors. Over the two days, participants engaged in panel discussions, poster sessions and collaborative planning exercises focused on sustainable agrifood systems, climate adaptation, food security, territorial inequalities and youth participation in public policy processes.

During the workshop, the Chapter presented its 2026–2027 workplan and shared ongoing efforts to strengthen youth participation in agrifood systems transformation across Colombia. Discussions also explored opportunities for closer collaboration among youth-led initiatives, research institutions and public actors, including around future policy instruments such as Colombia’s National Development Plan 2026–2030.

A key outcome of the workshop was the co-development of a consolidated action plan to support youth engagement in agrifood systems transformation. This included the creation of a 90-day roadmap outlining proposed actions, responsibilities and coordination mechanisms among participating actors.

Alongside the national workshop, Chapter members also participated in a dedicated working session focused on the long-term development of the Chapter. Hosted at Universidad de La Salle with the support of the FAO Country Office in Colombia and partners including United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the session focused on strengthening the Chapter’s governance structure, strategic planning and collective capacities through participatory and youth-led processes.

Participants worked collaboratively to validate the Chapter’s internal regulations and 2026–2027 workplan, while strengthening shared decision-making, rotating leadership mechanisms and coordination among members and partners.  Through these activities, the Chapter further consolidated its role as a platform for youth engagement in Colombia’s agrifood systems transformation, bridging local experiences, scientific knowledge and public policy dialogue.