Professionals, policymakers, researchers, and private sector stakeholders across Eastern and Southern Africa can apply for the free FAO and UNITAR Trade, Food Security and Nutrition Course 2026 and earn a certificate upon successful completion.
Overview
As African countries work to strengthen agricultural trade, improve food security, and build more resilient food systems, there is a growing need for professionals who understand the complex relationship between trade policies, nutrition, and agricultural development.
To help address this need, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) are offering a free online course on Trade, Food Security and Nutrition (TFSN) for professionals across Eastern and Southern Africa.
The five-week programme will provide participants with practical knowledge on agricultural trade, food security, nutrition policy, and international trade frameworks. Participants who successfully complete the course will receive a certificate of completion.
About the Course
The Trade, Food Security and Nutrition (TFSN) course was developed to strengthen the capacity of policymakers, practitioners, researchers, and stakeholders involved in agricultural trade and food policy.
The course responds to commitments made under the 2014 Malabo Declaration, where African governments pledged to boost intra-African agricultural trade as a pathway to agricultural transformation, economic growth, and improved food security.
Through expert-led learning and practical case studies, participants will explore how trade can contribute to reducing hunger, improving nutrition outcomes, and supporting sustainable development across the continent.
The course will be delivered online through UNITAR’s e-learning platform using training materials developed by FAO.
What Will Participants Gain?
Participants will gain valuable knowledge and practical skills related to trade and food systems.
By the end of the programme, learners will be able to:
- Assess how trade affects food security and nutrition
- Identify opportunities and challenges created by agricultural trade
- Understand trade policy measures and their role in food security
- Analyze global trade governance frameworks
- Explore the World Trade Organization (WTO) Agreement on Agriculture
- Evaluate the relationship between trade policies and nutrition outcomes
- Strengthen their capacity to formulate evidence-based trade policies
- Better support agricultural development and food security initiatives
Participants who successfully complete all assignments and assessments will receive an official certificate of completion.
Course Structure
The programme consists of four comprehensive units.
Unit 1: Introduction to Trade and Food Security
Participants will learn:
- Definitions and concepts of food security
- The relationship between trade and food security
- The impacts of trade on agricultural development
Unit 2: Trade Policy Supportive of Food Security
Topics include:
- Agricultural trade policy measures
- Trade policy design and implementation
- Strategies for supporting food security through trade
Unit 3: Governance of Trade and Food Security
Participants will explore:
- The multilateral trading system
- WTO agreements
- Policy space for food security
- Global governance frameworks
Unit 4: Trade and Nutrition
Topics include:
- Trade and nutrition linkages
- Food diversity and nutrient supply
- Food prices and nutrition outcomes
- Policy coherence for healthy diets
How Is the Course Delivered?
The course is entirely online and combines self-paced learning with expert support.
Participants will have access to:
- Interactive learning materials
- Required and optional readings
- Case study exercises
- Discussion forums
- Assessment quizzes
- Webinars
- Guidance from international experts
This flexible format allows participants to learn while balancing professional responsibilities.
Who Can Apply?
The course is designed primarily for professionals involved in agricultural policy, trade, and food systems.
Eligible applicants include:
Government Officials
Professionals working in:
- Ministries of Agriculture
- Ministries of Trade and Commerce
- Ministries of Finance and Economy
- Food Safety Authorities
- Veterinary Services
- Sanitary and Phytosanitary Agencies
Private Sector Representatives
Including:
- Producer organizations
- Agricultural businesses
- Agro-processing companies
- Trade associations
Researchers and Academics
Researchers with interests in:
- Agricultural policy
- Food security
- Nutrition
- Trade analysis
- Rural development
Development Practitioners
Including:
- Extension officers
- Trainers
- Technical advisors
- Staff of producer organizations
Priority will be given to professionals who directly influence agricultural trade policies and programmes.
Eligible Countries
Applicants from the following Eastern and Southern African countries are encouraged to apply:
- Angola
- Botswana
- Burundi
- Comoros
- Djibouti
- Eritrea
- Eswatini
- Ethiopia
- Kenya
- Lesotho
- Madagascar
- Malawi
- Mauritius
- Mozambique
- Namibia
- Rwanda
- Seychelles
- Somalia
- South Africa
- South Sudan
- Tanzania
- Uganda
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
Course Benefits
Selected participants will receive:
- Free enrollment
- Access to FAO-developed learning materials
- Training delivered through UNITAR’s online platform
- Participation in webinars and discussions
- Mentorship from international experts
- Flexible self-paced learning
- Certificate of completion
How to Apply
Step 1
Complete the online application before the deadline.
Step 2
Wait for the selection process conducted by FAO.
Step 3
If selected, obtain approval from your direct supervisor.
Step 4
Receive confirmation and begin the course in July 2026.
Because places are limited, applicants will be selected based on eligibility, professional relevance, geographical representation, and gender balance.
Important Dates
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | 15 June 2026 |
| Course Start Date | 13 July 2026 |
| Course End Date | 14 August 2026 |
| Duration | 5 Weeks |
| Mode | Online |
| Cost | Free |
Summary Table
| Item | Details |
| Course | Trade, Food Security and Nutrition (TFSN) |
| Organizers | FAO and UNITAR |
| Cost | Free |
| Delivery Mode | Online |
| Language | English |
| Duration | 5 Weeks |
| Dates | 13 July – 14 August 2026 |
| Certificate | Yes |
| Target Region | Eastern and Southern Africa |
| Application Deadline | 15 June 2026 |
Conclusion
The FAO and UNITAR Trade, Food Security and Nutrition Course 2026 offers a valuable opportunity for policymakers, researchers, private sector professionals, and development practitioners across Africa to strengthen their understanding of agricultural trade and its role in food security and nutrition.
With expert-led content, practical case studies, flexible online learning, and a free certificate upon completion, the programme can help participants build the skills needed to support evidence-based trade policies and sustainable agricultural development across the region.
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