Environmental defenders in Africa face significant threats, with many being killed for opposing resource exploitation. Mbuthuma, a prominent activist, continues to fight for community rights and environmental protection despite the dangers. The continent's vast natural resources attract transnational companies, leading to land grabs and violence against local communities. Global Witness reports that the mining industry is frequently linked to these killings. The article calls for better protection and justice for environmental defenders, emphasizing the need for sustainable development that respects local communities' rights.

The article highlights the transformative potential of digital sequencing information (DSI) in Africa's agriculture, emphasizing the need for capacity building to harness local genetic resources. Christian Tiambo, a livestock scientist, underscores the importance of genomics in breeding resilient livestock, while the Africa BioGenome Project aims to strengthen local capacity for DSI use. The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and upcoming COP16 discussions are pivotal in establishing fair benefit-sharing mechanisms. The World Resources Institute calls for increased financial support to protect biodiversity, stressing the need for both public and private sector involvement.

Christian Tiambo, a livestock scientist, emphasizes the transformative potential of digital sequencing information (DSI) in Africa's agriculture, particularly in breeding livestock adapted to local conditions. Despite Africa's rich genetic resources, the continent has not fully capitalized on DSI due to a lack of local capacity and infrastructure. The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework aims to establish guidelines for benefit-sharing from genetic resources, with the Africa BioGenome Project advocating for local capacity building. The upcoming COP16 discussions are crucial for ensuring Africa benefits from its genetic wealth, with calls for increased financial support to halt biodiversity loss by 2030.

The 2024 Global Hunger Index report warns that high levels of hunger will persist for 136 years in many developing countries unless significant progress is made. The report, published by Concern Worldwide and Welthungerhilfe, highlights the impact of conflict, climate change, high food prices, and debt on global hunger. It notes that 64 countries are unlikely to reach low hunger levels until 2160, with Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia being the most affected regions. The report criticizes wealthy nations for insufficient action and emphasizes the need for global cooperation, gender equality, and climate change mitigation to address hunger. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization echoes the call for urgent action ahead of World Food Day.

The Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) emphasizes the need for holistic solutions and transformative change to address the interconnected crises of biodiversity loss, food insecurity, and environmental degradation. Upcoming assessments, the Nexus Assessment and Transformative Change Assessment, will provide policymakers with evidence-based recommendations to tackle these issues collectively rather than in isolation. The reports highlight the importance of addressing global sustainability targets and the interconnectedness of biodiversity, human health, and economic stability. IPBES continues to influence international biodiversity policy, advocating for systematic approaches to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

The Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) emphasizes the need for holistic and transformative approaches to address the interconnected crises of biodiversity loss, food insecurity, and environmental degradation. Upcoming assessments, the Nexus Assessment and Transformative Change Assessment, will provide policymakers with evidence-based recommendations to tackle these issues collectively rather than in silos. The reports highlight the importance of addressing biodiversity, water, food, health, and climate change simultaneously to avoid unintended consequences. IPBES's work is crucial in shaping national and international biodiversity policies and informing progress on biodiversity-related Sustainable Development Goals.

The Global Hunger Index 2024 warns that high levels of hunger will persist for another 136 years in many developing countries unless significant action is taken. The report, published by Concern Worldwide and Welthungerhilfe, highlights the impact of conflicts, climate change, high food prices, and debt on global hunger. It notes that 64 countries are unlikely to achieve low hunger levels by 2160. The report criticizes wealthy nations for their lack of political will to address hunger and calls for global action. Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia are identified as the most affected regions. The report also emphasizes the link between gender inequality, food insecurity, and climate change, urging governments to invest in gender equality and climate action to ensure the right to food for all.

The article discusses the critical role of livestock in Africa, emphasizing its importance for food security, nutrition, and economic growth, despite the negative narrative surrounding its environmental impact. It highlights the need for balanced discussions on livestock's role in climate change, particularly in developing regions like Africa. Key figures like Ian Wright and Adegbola Adesogen advocate for increased investment and supportive policies to harness livestock's potential in addressing food insecurity and contributing to sustainable development goals. The article calls for a shift in perspective to view livestock as part of the solution to climate challenges, rather than solely a problem.

Mauro Colagreco, an acclaimed chef, emphasizes the importance of sustainable food practices and biodiversity. As the first UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Biodiversity, he advocates for a circular gastronomy approach that integrates nature and sustainability. Colagreco's restaurant, Mirazur, exemplifies these principles by producing a significant portion of its ingredients through permaculture. He calls for global cooperation in education and policy to address biodiversity challenges, highlighting the role of chefs and the hospitality industry in promoting sustainable practices.

The Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) emphasizes the need for a transformative change in global systems to combat unprecedented biodiversity loss, food insecurity, and environmental degradation. Upcoming IPBES assessments, set for release in December 2024, advocate for holistic solutions to interconnected crises involving biodiversity, water, food, health, and climate change. The reports, developed by experts from 42 countries, aim to provide policymakers with scientific evidence and options for transformative actions. The assessments underscore the importance of addressing these issues collectively rather than in isolation, highlighting the interconnectedness of biodiversity, human health, economic stability, and environmental sustainability.