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It is with deep sadness that we pay tribute to Moïse Houssou, CORAF's fourth President, who passed away recently. His death is an immense loss for the African agricultural community and for all those who had the good fortune to know him and work alongside him.

Dr Moise Houssou, Honorary Director of Agricultural Research from 1991 to 1999, made remarkable contributions to the promotion of agricultural research and development in West and Central Africa during his term as President of CORAF from 1998 to 1999.

One of the highlights of CORAF's mandate was the change of its current name (Conseil Ouest et Centre Africain pour la Recherche et le Développement Agricoles) from Conférence des responsables de recherches agronomiques africains et français.

Dr Moise Houssou worked tirelessly to promote collaboration between CORAF member countries, researchers, agricultural institutions and international partners. He was a fervent advocate of agriculture as an engine of economic and social development in Africa. He believed in the need to harness the continent's agricultural potential and create sustainable, inclusive food systems. He advocated modern agriculture, based on scientific knowledge, technological innovation and capacity-building for African farmers.

In addition to his role within CORAF, Moïse Houssou has also held other positions of responsibility in the agricultural sector in Benin and Africa. He has been a fervent advocate of regional cooperation and has contributed to the establishment of numerous strategic partnerships for agricultural development.

With the passing of Dr Moïse Houssou, we lose an exceptional leader and tireless advocate of African agriculture. His contribution to the region's agricultural development will live on.