Egypt and FAO Join Forces to Build Future Leaders for Sustainable Agri-Food Systems. Egypt has signed a letter of intent with the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to host the FAO Regional Leadership Academy, a pioneering center dedicated to training leaders and decision-makers in transforming agri-food systems across the region.
The agreement was formalized during the World Food Forum (WFF) 2025 at the FAO headquarters in Rome, with Egypt’s Minister of Planning and International Cooperation, Rania Al-Mashat, and FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu presiding over the signing ceremony.
“The Academy strengthens our partnership with FAO to prepare future leaders in the field of sustainable agri-food systems,” said Minister Al-Mashat. “Hosting this institution marks an important milestone in consolidating Egypt’s role as a regional hub for knowledge and experience exchange in food security and agricultural development.”
Building Future Leaders for Sustainable Food Systems
The new academy will focus on equipping young professionals and policymakers with the tools and knowledge needed to drive institutional transformation, advance food security, and build resilient, sustainable agri-food systems capable of addressing challenges such as climate change, water scarcity, and resource management.
FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu highlighted the initiative as a key step toward empowering regional leadership and enhancing collaboration between countries of the Global South.
“Cooperation with FAO reflects the Egyptian state’s belief in the importance of investing in human capital and enhancing leadership competencies,” Al-Mashat added, noting that the academy will play a vital role in strengthening South-South and triangular cooperation.
Advancing Digital Transformation and Innovation
According to the letter of intent, Egypt and FAO will collaborate to advance digital transformation in agri-food systems across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The partnership aims to make these systems more efficient, inclusive, and resilient through:
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Supporting national policy reforms
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Developing leadership and strategic capacities
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Promoting innovative research and tailored technological solutions
The establishment of the Regional Leadership Academy in Egypt reflects the country’s growing commitment to sustainable agricultural innovation, regional cooperation, and capacity-building as cornerstones of food system transformation.
Egypt and FAO Join Forces to Build Future Leaders for Sustainable Agri-Food Systems
