Introduction:
My attendance at “The Workshop on Promoting Effective Food Systems Through Innovation,” held in Hargeisa from September 19th to 21st, 2023, proved to be a profoundly enriching and impactful experience. The organizers meticulously crafted a diverse and dynamic program that facilitated a comprehensive understanding of Somaliland/Somalia’s food system challenges and opportunities.
Highlights of the Workshop:
- Field Visits: Field Visits: One of the most impactful components of the workshop was the series of field visits undertaken between September 19th and 21st. Venturing into the local communities, we engaged directly with farmers and herders, gaining insights into the day-to-day challenges they face. These on-the-ground interactions provided a human dimension to the workshop, reinforcing the importance of understanding the local context in devising effective solutions.
- Conversations with Farmers and Herders: Through these visits, we had the privilege of engaging in meaningful conversations with farmers and herders. By listening to their stories, concerns, and aspirations, we not only identified the immediate challenges but also discovered the resilience and resourcefulness within these communities. This direct dialogue added a personal touch to the workshop, grounding the discussions in the lived experiences of those directly impacted by food system dynamics.
- Collaborative Problem-Solving: The field visits became a platform for collaborative problem-solving. By actively involving the local communities in discussions about challenges and potential solutions, the workshop fostered a sense of shared responsibility. The exchange of ideas between workshop participants and the local stakeholders created a unique synergy, blending traditional knowledge with innovative approaches.
- Direct Engagement: Interacting with stakeholders across the food supply chain during the workshop days was invaluable. Their diverse perspectives, challenges, and successes challenged my assumptions and fostered a collaborative spirit.
- Expert Presentations: Learning from field experts between September 19th and 21st was both informative and inspiring. The wealth of knowledge shared, including best practices, case studies, and lessons learned, equipped me with valuable tools for future endeavors.
- Interactive Sessions: Group discussions and activities throughout the workshop were stimulating and fostered critical thinking. Brainstorming solutions, sharing experiences, and applying theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios during the workshop dates enhanced my problem-solving skills and deepened my understanding.
- Knowledge-Sharing: The platform provided for participants to showcase their own innovative approaches and research during the workshop was immensely valuable. This exchange of ideas and constructive feedback led to collaborative refinement of strategies and highlighted the potential for collective impact.
Overall Impact:
This workshop’s well-rounded and interactive approach, experienced over the dates of September 19th to 21st, created a dynamic and inclusive learning environment. The organizers’ dedication to fostering collaboration and solution-oriented thinking was evident throughout. Leaving the workshop, I feel empowered and equipped to apply the knowledge and insights gained to meaningfully contribute to the advancement of effective food systems in the region.
Future Action:
My journey doesn’t end here. I am committed to actively utilizing the learnings from this workshop in my ongoing work. Specifically, I plan to:
- Share key insights and best practices with colleagues and collaborators to spark further discussion and action.
- Integrate the acquired knowledge into my approach to project development and implementation.
- Seek opportunities to collaborate with stakeholders across the food systems spectrum to drive further innovation and positive change.
Conclusion:
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to participate in this transformative workshop in Hargeisa between September 19th and 21st. The experience equipped me with valuable knowledge, connections, and inspiration to contribute meaningfully to the future of effective food systems in Somaliland/Somalia.