For Melissa Wong Oviedo, Equimundo :
How can the Equimundo model be replicated in the Democratic Republic of the Congo?

It is encouraging to see interest in replication. This is absolutely possible. While we do not currently have a formal adaptation guide, we strongly encourage contextualization to reflect local norms and conditions in each country. The original model was developed in Rwanda, which may also serve as a useful reference point for adaptation in other African contexts. 

For Judy Deterville-Jacob, Sandals Resort:
Regarding paternity leave for “proven” fathers, does this apply only to biological fathers, or does it include adoptive or surrogate fathers? Is disclosure of adoption or surrogacy required? Additionally, how have men contributed to your professional success? Do you attribute your achievements primarily to women or men in your life?

On paternity leave, we require proof of fatherhood through the birth certificate. In Saint Lucia, and I believe this is common across many English-speaking Caribbean countries, the father’s name is recorded on the birth certificate, which serves as official confirmation. That is the documentation we rely on. Regarding my personal and professional journey, I was raised in a woman-led household, and my mother was instrumental in ensuring my access to education and my academic success. That foundation was essential. At the same time, I have also been interviewed and supported professionally by men throughout my career, including in leadership roles. I therefore see my development as the result of contributions from both women and men. In my current role, I also work alongside strong female leadership, which brings a valuable perspective. Overall, I would say that both men and women have played meaningful roles in my development and success.

For Sue Ann Barratt, Caribbean Male Action Network:
How does one become part of the CariMAN Organization? Must applicants be from government or public service, or can private-sector individuals or organizations join?

Membership is open to a broad range of individuals, including recent graduates. Interested persons should visit our website and sign up. As part of the process, applicants are required to take a pledge, as we strongly support pro-feminist practice and action. Once this process is completed, individuals are admitted as members and can actively participate in initiatives supporting the Caribbean and our partner organizations.

For Mwansa Mungela, FAO:
Is a seaweed enterprise viable in the region? Are there opportunities to develop similar blue economy initiatives for fish processors in Zambia?

The Dimitra Club approach I described represents only one of several interventions we have implemented. In this case, we introduced a range of alternative livelihood options, not seaweed specifically, but agricultural activities such as horticulture and rice farming. These alternatives have shown promising early results. Women, in particular, have been highly engaged and actively participating in these initiatives.

La dernière fois, nous parlions du plan d’affaires : un outil essentiel pour structurer votre projet, clarifier votre vision et mieux présenter votre entreprise.

Aujourd’hui, nous allons plus loin avec une partie souvent décisive de ce plan : le plan financier.

Prévisions de ventes, coûts, besoins de financement, rentabilité… votre plan financier permet de montrer concrètement où vous allez, de quoi vous avez besoin et comment votre entreprise peut se développer.

🎥 Découvrez dans cette courte vidéo 5 éléments que votre plan financier doit absolument avoir.

Et vous, quelle partie du plan financier trouvez-vous la plus difficile à préparer ?

This global contest invites young learners and professionals aged 18–35 to share how FAO e-learning courses have helped them gain new skills, advance their studies or career, and create real-world impact in their communities.

🏆 Three winners will receive a fully funded trip to Rome to attend the World Food Forum 2026, taking place from 12 to 15 October 2026. Winners will also have the opportunity to share their stories through a video interview featured on FAO platforms.

To apply, participants should:

✅ Be registered learners of the FAO elearning Academy
✅ Have completed FAO e-learning courses
✅ Have obtained certified digital badges
✅ Submit a short impact story in English explaining how they applied their learning in practice

📌 The application story should be clear, authentic and based on real experience. Please note that the use of AI tools to generate responses is not allowed.

🗓️ Deadline: 31 July 2026, 23:59 CEST

This is a great opportunity for young professionals, students, entrepreneurs and innovators working in agriculture, plant health, food systems and sustainable development.

👉 Learn more and apply here: FAO elearning Academy Global Youth Contest

Good luck !!!

Register: https://coleacp-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_THwmjzunQTKs45IJF2bI9Q#/registration  

Programme: https://agrinnovators.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/IICA-COLEAD-CABS%C2%B021_Programme_EN.pdf 

More information: https://agrinnovators.org/innovation-session/caribbean-agrifood-business-session-n21/

But one key question remains: how can AI respond to the real daily challenges of farmers and agrifood SMEs?

During Session N°13 of the OECD–COLEAD Fruit and Vegetable Industry Series, our panelists shared practical insights on what makes AI useful: local languages, simple tools, reliable data, early pest detection, better quality information and solutions adapted to small businesses.

Now we would like to hear from you:

• Have you already used AI tools in your work?
• Could AI help you address challenges such as pests, harvest losses, quality control, packaging, market access, finance, customer communication or business planning?
• What would make AI easier and more useful for your daily activities?

Share your questions, experiences or concerns in the comments.

This update is particularly relevant for agri-food businesses exporting to the EU, as the rules also apply to non-EU exporters using recycled plastic packaging for products sold on the European market.

Key points include:

• New compliance documentation requirements
• Stronger traceability for recycled plastic content
• Clarifications on imported recycled plastic products
• New electronic registration system for operators
• Transition periods for businesses already compliant with existing rules

The information is available in English, French and Portuguese.

👉 Read the full update here: EU rules on recycled plastic used in food packaging: updates and clarifications - AGRINFO Platform

This may be useful for businesses working on packaging, export readiness, sustainability, or compliance with EU market requirements.