Read the EfD Policy Day 2025 Concept Note!
On October 15, 2025, EfD will host Policy Day 2025, a dynamic event dedicated to advancing evidence-based dialogue and collaboration around the future of agriculture in East Africa. Themed Building Resilient and Sustainable Agriculture for the Future, the day will bring together policymakers, researchers, development partners, and practitioners to explore innovative and inclusive solutions for transforming agri-food systems in the region.
The program will feature keynote addresses, interactive group sessions, and a panel discussion focused on three critical themes:
1. Climate-smart agriculture and environmental stewardship
This session will examine how East African countries can scale up climate-smart agricultural practices that enhance productivity, build resilience, and reduce environmental impact. Discussions will focus on overcoming adoption barriers, mobilizing climate finance, and integrating environmental stewardship into agricultural policy and practice.
2. Carbon markets, green finance, and fiscal incentives
Participants will explore how carbon pricing and green finance mechanisms can support sustainable agriculture and land use. The session will highlight opportunities for African countries to engage in high-integrity carbon markets, design equitable fiscal incentives, and ensure transparent benefit-sharing with local communities.
3. Inclusive agri-economies and livelihoods
This theme will address the structural inequalities that limit access to resources and opportunities for smallholders, especially women and youth. The session will focus on policy and financing strategies to promote inclusive value chains, strengthen social protection, and empower marginalized groups to participate in and benefit from agricultural transformation.
The day will begin with opening remarks and keynote speeches, followed by interactive group discussions on each sub-theme. In the afternoon, a panel with researchers and policy makers will synthesize key insights and recommendations, which will be ranked collaboratively using digital tools. The event will conclude with reflections from both research and policy perspectives, followed by a networking session.
The EfD Policy Day 2025 aims to generate actionable policy guidance and foster partnerships that can drive resilient, low-carbon, and inclusive agricultural development across East Africa.