31 December 2012: The African Union Commission’s (AUC) Chairperson, Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, has, in her New Year Statement, underscored the economic importance of agriculture for Africa and noted the environmental challenges that need to be addressed.

In her statement, she outlines the importance of the Comprehensive African Agricultural Development Programme (CAADP) for increasing agricultural productivity on the continent. She stresses that through CAADP, food security can be ensured while increasing income and improving livelihoods through the exportation of surplus. At the same time, she calls on the African people to address the challenges posed by climate change and other environmental issues to ensure a legacy for the future. [AU Chairperson’s Statement]