Post: Harvesting Collaboration for Food Security

Nairobi: The Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) Science Week, co-hosted by the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation (KALRO), concluded on Friday evening, marking a significant week that highlighted the transformative impact of science when combined with strategic partnerships.According to Kenya News Agency, collaboration was at the forefront of the event, with participants exchanging technologies and insights while discussing the further development of groundbreaking innovations. These innovations have the potential to revolutionize agri-food systems, making them more resilient, sustainable, and equitable. The debates and scientific showcases illuminated the path forward and reaffirmed a collective commitment to a food-secure future.Throughout the week, several key achievements were realized. Notably, the International Potato Centre (CIP) and KALRO signed a licensing agreement to transfer biotech for a potato resistant to late blight, which reduces the need for chemical inputs while improving productivity and resilience. This agreement significantly empowers farmers by putting the development of future innovations into their hands. Additionally, the CGIAR Research Portfolio was launched, along with their flagship report designed to aid decision-makers in low- and middle-income countries and regional bodies in making smarter investments. The International Water Management Institute (IWMI) Strategy 2024-2030 was also unveiled, providing a roadmap for research and innovation to enhance water security throughout East Africa.During the closeout ceremony at the UN campus in Gigiri, H.E. Amina J. Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, emphasized the importance of partnerships in accelerating progress by bringing together diverse expertise to drive science-based solutions. She highlighted the need to align research with policy and action, working with partners like CGIAR and the high-level experts of the Committee on World Food Security to build foo d systems that are resilient, sustainable, and inclusive.Dr. Eliud Kireger, Director General of KALRO, noted that the Science Week highlighted both the successes to build upon and the gaps that need addressing through debate and pioneering innovation presentations. He emphasized the importance of regional scaling and prioritizing the localization of proven technologies for small and large-scale farmers.Ismahane Elouafi, Executive Managing Director of CGIAR, stated that the week involved exploring groundbreaking research, forging new collaborations, and reaffirming a commitment to creating sustainable, resilient, and equitable food systems. Dr. Juergen Voegele, Vice President for Sustainable Development at the World Bank, stressed the critical role of investing in agricultural research as a solution to challenges such as climate change, migration, and conflict, noting that every dollar invested in CGIAR yields ten dollars in benefits.The CGIAR Integrated Partnership Board member, Dr. Rachel Chikwamba, ca lled upon youth to pursue careers in science and technology, particularly in agriculture. She underscored the transformative potential of technology and encouraged youth involvement in shaping their future.The CGIAR Science Week attracted over 16,000 stakeholders, policymakers, experts, innovators, and farmers, making significant strides in advancing themes focused on accelerating global food security and improving smallholder livelihoods, especially in a time when climate, food, and health systems face considerable challenges.