Dramatic population growth will lead to a rapidly changing socio-economic environment in many African countries. By 2020, the global population is predicted to increase by 31% to reach 7.6 Billion and 98% of the increase will take place in developing countries. Urban populations will double in size, reaching 3.4 billion. Health hazards are also threatening the quality of life. Food systems in sub-Saharan Africa will have to respond to this changing environment. New challenges are arising that food research and development scientists will have to tackle to ensure food security, economic growth and 'quality of life' of the population. The FoodAfrica initiative will address these critical issues through an Internet-based Forum and an International Working Meeting.