CCFA56 / Strengthening Africa’s voice in international food additives regulation

by the Codex Contact point of Uganda

Twelve CCAFRICA Member Countries, including Cabo Verde, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, Sudan, Uganda, and the United Republic of Tanzania, participated in the 56^th Session of the Codex Committee on Food Additives (CCFA56) in Chongqing, China. This marked a clear shift in Africa’s engagement from participation to strategic influence, actively contributing to aligning CCAFRICA’s efforts with Goal 2 of the Codex Strategic Plan (2026–2031), which focuses on enhancing Codex work management systems and practices that support the effective and efficient development of Codex standards and related texts.

Members have consistently been encouraged to assume leadership roles in Codex work, including EWGs and PWGs. Kenya exemplified this call by leading a working group on the Priority List of Substances Proposed for Evaluation by JECFA. This directly reflects CCAFRICA’s work plan, which emphasizes assigned lead countries to drive Codex work and strengthen regional participation. Through this role, Africa ensured that substances relevant to its food systems are considered in international evaluations.

Food additives remain critical to Africa’s food systems, supporting preservation, safety, and trade in rapidly growing processed food markets. At CCFA56, African countries contributed to key discussions on the General Standard for Food Additives (GSFA), including new provisions and alignment with commodity standards. Notably, amendments were made to Africa’s regional product standards for fermented cassava products and dried meat.

The meeting also highlighted Africa’s growing role in scientific contributions. Engagement in JECFA prioritization and GSFA work underscored the need for regional data generation and expert networks, as outlined in the CCAFRICA work plan for implementing the Codex Strategic Plan. At the same time, calls for mentorship and capacity building reinforced efforts to ensure sustained and effective participation by African delegates.

Overall, Africa’s coordinated participation at CCFA56 demonstrated progress towards a more influential role in Codex. With strengthened leadership, technical contributions, and alignment with strategic priorities, the region is increasingly shaping global food additive standards while advancing food safety, consumer protection, and trade across the continent.

Read more

CCFA56 webpage