AGRA boss Dr Agnes Kalibata has expressed confidence the upcoming COP28 in the United Arab Emirates will improve food systems as she joins the advisory committee of the forum's president.

The COP28 which will be hosted by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in November is a critical platform that brings together nations, organizations, and stakeholders from around the world to address the challenges of climate change.

A statement from AGRA signed by Jean Kiarie, head of communications explained Dr. Kalibata has been appointed as a member of the Advisory Committee of the President of the 28th Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

As a member of the COP28 President’s Advisory Committee, Dr Kalibata will contribute to the development and implementation of strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change.

She will be involved in strategic initiatives, including working groups, task forces, and consultations, to ensure that the voices and needs of farmers and businesses are heard and incorporated into global climate policies.

"I am delighted to join the COP28 President’s Advisory Committee. There is nothing today that is more important than all of us pooling together to contribute to the global effort to combat climate change," said Dr Kalibata.

"Climate change is quickly becoming the most significant challenge facing our planet, and I am committed to working with other partners and stakeholders to address this critical issue. I am committed to sharing my experience and collaborating with other members to drive urgent and
meaningful action," she added.

The statement said Dr. Kalibata shares the vision for COP28 having successfully stewarded the 2021 UN Food Systems Summit. The summit created global awareness of the need to transform food systems to be more inclusive, deliver better food and reduce environmental footprint.

Dr Kalibata says she is excited to work at the COP and will advance efforts at improving food systems. "This is an opportunity to advance food systems efforts even further globally and here in Africa and I remain desirous of and committed to sustaining the momentum,” she said.

“The diverse membership to the COP28 Advisory Committee is an opportunity for
all of us to continue our efforts to combat climate change and work towards a more sustainable present for us and future for all,” she said.