African nations possess adequate policies to transform their agri-food systems, as evidenced by commitments like the Malabo Declaration. However, a significant obstacle remains: a lack of capacity to effectively implement these policies. This disconnect between policy and action hinders progress towards food security and agricultural development across the continent. The initial observation stems from early engagements at the African Union, where ministerial pledges highlighted existing commitments. While political will is demonstrated through declarations, translating these intentions into tangible results proves challenging. Addressing this capacity gap is crucial for unlocking Africa’s agricultural potential and achieving sustainable food systems. Further investigation is needed to pinpoint specific capacity deficits and develop targeted solutions.