Nairobi: The Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) has introduced a comprehensive report aimed at assisting decision-makers in navigating the complexities of food system science. This comes at a time when food systems are increasingly challenged by factors such as climate change, conflict, biodiversity loss, and hunger.
According to Kenya News Agency, the report, titled "Insight to Impact: A Decision-Maker's Guide to Navigating Food System Science," offers practical, actionable guidance for decision-makers and investors focused on building resilient and sustainable food systems, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The report features case studies like 'EnviroCow,' a genetic index aiding farmers in sub-Saharan Africa to reduce feed costs and emissions, and zinc-rich wheat in Pakistan, which is reaching over 100 million people and raising zinc intake by 21%.
Another highlighted initiative is the tailored fertilizer advice in Ethiopia, which has resulted in crop yield increases of up to 29% and income boosts of up to USD 270/ha. The report was launched during the Science Week 2025 at the UN Campus in Nairobi, an event that gathered leaders from Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the global scientific community.
CGIAR's Executive Managing Director, Ismahane Elouafi, emphasized that the report is designed for decision-makers across various sectors, including agriculture, climate, finance, and health. She noted it selects data and innovations from decades of research, offering twenty practical solutions tested in real-world conditions. Elouafi highlighted the importance of engaging with policymakers to turn insights into tangible impacts.
The report also reveals contributions from over 70 decision-makers from government, regional bodies, and the private sector, identifying key needs such as clear science communication and alignment with national strategies. CGIAR's Integrated Partnership Board chair, Dhesigen Naidoo, expressed that future editions would address emerging challenges and continue bridging science with decision-making.
The report includes implementation resources like expert contacts and tools for scaling, such as the alternate wetting and drying technique adopted in Vietnam's national climate policy. The smart rice water management case in Vietnam shows over 33,000 farmers trained in climate-smart techniques that reduce methane emissions and water use without compromising yields.
To further support these efforts, CGIAR launched the Insight to Impact Policy Champions Network, a coalition of partners and policy influencers committed to grounding scientific insights in actionable strategies. Lusike Wasilwa from the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) highlighted the importance of partnerships in reaching smallholders and developing data-driven policies.
The flagship report was supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) with the Germany Agency of International Corporation (GIZ).