Food Security Summit 2012

As you might have read on Facebook approximately one month ago, I am invited to attend the West African Food Security Summit in The Gambia. 

The invitation was surreal to say the least, but now that the date is quickly approaching I thought you'd like to know a few specifics. Yes?

When:

July 2 - 6.

Summit Goal:

Assemble PCVs and Food Security Points of Contact to West Africa Food Security Summit in order to encourage, train and equip them to effectively improve regional food security and successfully engage in the West African Food Security Partnership.

Objectives:

1. Inform PCVs on the context, function and components of the West Africa Food Security Partnership.
2. Train PCVs on Monitoring & Evaluation, Communication, Branding & Marketing, and Environmental Impact Analysis.
3. Disfunction, creation, roles and management of PCV Food Security Task Force.
4. Train and equip PCVs to create or further strengthen a national PCV Food Security Task Force in their respective countries.
5. Brainstorm and facilitate linkages between countries in order to benefit from the region approach's synergies and complementarities. Discuss communication needs and develop conceptual solutions.

What will I do?

With my colleague, Benjamin Bogardus, I will do a 15-minute presentation on Togo (e.g. geography, demographics, key challenges); on Togo's food security program/activities and achievements; and on food security-related technologies or techniques used in your country by PCVs. 

Where?

For the safety of myself and others, I will not disclose the location of the summit. For friends and family members, please send a request for further information. 

I will, however, inform you that I'll leave Lome on Friday, June 29 to Cotonou, Benin. 

Looking forward to uploading pictures and sharing stories!

Wish me luck.