The Resilient Food Systems (RFS) program is one of three Integrated Approach Pilot programs financed by the GEF during the sixth replenishment cycle (GEF-6).
In 2021, the RFS program made significant progress toward enhancing the long-term resilience and sustainability of smallholder farming systems in sub-Saharan Africa. The 2021 Programme Highlights showcases the achievements and innovations of the RFS regional partners, country project teams and beneficiary communities across 12 targeted countries.
The 2021 reporting period was marked by continual learning and movement towards the program objectives. A shift in the program's monitoring and evaluation framework and responding to the Mid-Term Review of the program thus far are catapulting the program through its final stages. The report highlights emerging lessons and experiences from country projects, including examples of how RFS projects are delivering global environmental benefits while building the resilience of smallholder farming communities and production systems to stresses and shocks. It underscores, inter alia, the importance of strategic partnerships in developing and implementing strong knowledge systems, nature-based solutions that attract private investments and innovative adaptation actions that leverage technological solutions and integrate gendered perspectives.