An Alliance for Action

(2008-08-30) The start of day two of the African Green Revolution Conference featured tributes to President of Malawi, Bingu wa Mutharika and Yara CEO, Thorleif Enger.

The Malawi president and the CEO were made torchbearers in recognition of their work for the third Millennium Development Goal, the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of women.

Norway's Minister of the Environment and International Development Erik Solheim presented the torches on behalf of the government of Denmark, which has made the MDG number three a high priority.

The 2008 Conference began on Thursday with conference chair Paulo Gomes introducing two particularly distinguished speakers, former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan and President wa Mutharika.

The opening interview with Mr. Annan, who is now Chairman of the Alliance for an African Green Revolution concluded with an extended tribute to Yara's efforts for the Green Revolution, and deep personal thanks to Thorleif Enger's dedication to the cause.

Panel discussions on day one included examinations of the issues of food security, markets for smallholder farmers and financing the Green Revolution, before participants formed workgroups to discuss best practice on a range of key topics.

	Finding lasting food solutions for Africa.
	Photos from Fridays mornings Torch ceremony.
	Webcast of Conference sessions on Thursday, August 28, 2008.