The SASI/SASi-SPi initiative is transforming food systems in Colombia through a collaborative effort led by AGRINATURA represented by CIRAD and ICRA, and national research partners such as AGROSAVIA and local universities. This initiative focuses on participatory action research, and international European cooperation to address the unique challenges and opportunities of territorial food systems across the country.
The initiative prioritizes four distinct territories, each chosen for their unique agricultural, ecological, and socio-economic dynamics:
These territories were selected based on factors like productive systems, food supply infrastructure, strategic ecosystems, and partnerships with FAO and AGROSAVIA.
The initiative began in 2023 with discussions involving the Ministry of Agriculture and the National Department of Planification (DNP), along with the establishment of a multidisciplinary team. Workshops held in May and September 2024 focused on analyzing and characterizing territorial food systems, as well as identifying the challenges involved in transitioning towards more sustainable and inclusive food systems. Participants examined local production, distribution, and consumption patterns, and identified key challenges such as environmental degradation, market access inequalities, and the socio-economic sustainability of small-scale farming.
These workshops not only highlighted common themes, like the protection of ecosystems and agrobiodiversity, but also uncovered distinct regional differences. For example, Montes de María grapples with rebuilding trust among actors, while Altiplano Cundiboyacense must tackle the impact of Bogotá’s influence on rural food systems.
The initiative emphasizes in-depth analysis of specific themes and participatory action research (PAR), which fosters collaboration among local actors. This approach ensures that the roadmaps towards the transition are co-created and grounded in local realities. Partnerships with universities and research centers across Colombia are central to this effort, helping to address information gaps in areas such as food consumption, agricultural economics, and the socio-economic status of small-scale farmers.
The involvement of AGROSAVIA and universities like Universidad Nacional de Colombia and Universidad de los Andes provides a strong foundation for advancing agroecological practices and promoting equitable market opportunities. This collaboration also supports broader efforts, such as the development of an inter-university specialization in sustainable food systems.
The next phase of the SASI/SASi-SPi initiative involves deepening research efforts, expanding participatory activities, and stablishing an effective dialogue with policy makers. Research will focus on the transition challenges identified on the four territories, such as diversifying food production and promoting agroecological strategies, to ensure sustainability and inclusiveness.
These findings will support the construction of a collective vision of a desirable food system for the future, and a set of pathways that may be taken today to reach this desirable future. This valued work will be materialized through a roadmap and an action plan in each territory. The overall results will shape actionable recommendations to support the resilience of Colombia's food systems.
Workshops and participatory sessions will continue to engage diverse stakeholders, from policymakers to local farmers, ensuring their voices guide the transition process. This participatory approach not only enhances the relevance of the findings but also builds trust and momentum for long-term change.
The SASI/SASi-SPi initiative stands as a model of how science, policy, and community action can intersect to address the pressing challenges of modern food systems. By focusing on inclusiveness, sustainability, and resilience, the initiative is setting a benchmark for food systems transitions in Colombia. This transformative effort promises to preserve Colombia's rich ecological heritage, enhance food security, and ensure equitable growth for rural and urban communities alike.