CPI at the Africa Food Systems Forum 2026
CPI will organize and participate in several events at the Africa Food Systems Forum (AFSF) 2026 through its role as secretary of the ClimateShot Investor Coalition (CLIC).
*all times in CAT
Building a Shared Engine for an Investment-Ready Pipeline
📅 Wednesday, 22 September; 10:30 – 12:30
​Together with UK FCDO, CLIC will host a closed-door roundtable discussion as part of the breakthrough sessions at AFSF. This event will brings together investors, funders, technical assistance providers, and ecosystem partners to explore practical approaches to build stronger investment pipelines for agri-SMEs.
The discussion will draw on insights from new research mapping the technical assistance ecosystem in emerging markets, including Sub-Saharan Africa. Participants will offer strategic perspectives to shape future coordination approaches and partnership models needed to improve investment readiness and accelerate capital deployment.
Invite only.
Advancing National Climate Funds and Investments
📅 Wednesday, 22 September; 1:30 – 3:30
Innovation Hub
Leigh Hildyard will participate in a panel discussion on the increasingly important role of national climate funds in financing climate action and accelerating resilient agrifood systems across Africa. This session will explore how public, private, and philanthropic actors can strengthen national climate finance architecture to mobilize greater investment for adaptation, mitigation, and sustainable agricultural development.
Discussions will examine innovative financing mechanisms, governance models, and partnerships that improve access to climate finance for farmers, businesses, women, and young entrepreneurs, while creating enabling environments that attract long-term investment and strengthen climate resilience.
Open to all AFSF delegates.
Climate and Nature Deal Room
📅 Wednesday, 22 September; 3:30 – 5:30
Stage B
The Connector is hosting its flagship climate and nature deal room at AFSF. The event will showcase the Connector’s 2026 climate- and nature-positive agribusinesses from sub-Saharan Africa: Afri-Farmers Market, Agri-Invest, CoolCatch, eSusFarm, Kodu Technology, Nimsy Agro Solar Concept, Pollen Patrollers, and Rada 360.
Poolside Reception
📅 Wednesday, 22 September; 18:30 – 21:00
CLIC and the World Food Programme are hosting a networking event on the sidelines of AFSF. The event will facilitate conversations and connections between impact investors, climate finance specialists, and agriculture and food systems enterepreneurs.
Invite only.
