Day 3: Continental Trade, Market Access, Finance, Youth & Gender Inclusion

Day 3 of the StEPPFoS Virtual Knowledge Forum focused on Continental Trade, Market Access, Finance, Youth & Gender Inclusion, spotlighting practical solutions and partnerships advancing Africa’s agrifood systems. The sessions explored how circular bioeconomy approaches can strengthen value chains, unlock new market opportunities, and support climate resilience. Discussions also highlighted how youth are leveraging innovation, standards, and digital platforms to improve market access and deepen participation across agrifood systems. A key takeaway from the day was the importance of bridging policy and implementation, translating research and evidence into practical investments, stronger accountability, and inclusive development outcomes. The day concluded with a timely conversation on strengthening the science–policy interface and reinforcing collaboration between research networks and policymakers to support more coherent, evidence-based decision-making for sustainable food systems transformation across Africa.