Nairobi: The Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) is spearheading efforts to improve lives in low- and middle-income countries by transforming animal and aquatic food systems sustainably. Through its Sustainable Animal and Aquatic Foods (SAAF) Program, CGIAR aims to create inclusive, healthy, and nutrient-dense food supply chains that are environmentally friendly and climate-resilient.
According to Kenya News Agency, Rodrigue Yossa, Interim Director of the Sustainable Animal and Aquatic Food Science Program at CGIAR, announced during the CGIAR science week at the UN Complex that the 6-year program will target 17 countries across Africa, Asia, South America, and the Pacific. Kenya is among the African nations set to benefit from this initiative, with expectations to improve the livelihoods of 1.7 million people.
Yossa highlighted that SAAF aims to establish sustainable, nutrient-rich food supply chains through scientific innovations, policy changes, and inclusive practices. The program's implementation will focus on six key areas: productivity, climate and environment, one health, market systems policy solutions, scaling, data, and digital solutions, and gender, youth, and social inclusion.
James Rao, an agricultural economist from the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), emphasized the importance of co-designing, deploying, and evaluating market systems innovations. These efforts aim to enable farmers to adopt improved practices and participate in aquatic animal food markets profitably. Rao noted the necessity of developing inclusive market systems that consider smallholder livestock keepers and the behavioral and institutional changes needed to facilitate their participation.
Rao further explained the importance of scaling innovations to increase farmer participation, advocating for policy solutions that create a conducive environment. He remarked on the challenges faced by underserved livestock keepers who are often excluded from programs despite their difficulties. The SAAF program has supported dairy farmers in developing business models that offer tangible benefits.
Oliver Mukunza, a dairy farmer from Nangili, shared his experience of starting a dairy unit with guidance from ILRI experts. Mukunza detailed how the advice and resources provided, such as special Napier seeds for fodder, enabled him to establish a successful dairy operation, now producing 66 liters of milk daily. He highlighted the financial challenges faced by small-scale farmers in acquiring quality cattle and fodder, urging experts to help link farmers with financial institutions and provide guidance on issues like disease management.
Kenya's dairy sector, predominantly driven by small-scale farmers, accounts for 70 percent of the industry. Despite its significance, the sector continues to grapple with challenges. The success of the SAAF program hinges on robust partnerships across continents.
According to CGIAR Managing Executive Director Dr. Ismahane Elouafi, SAAF will serve as a platform for change tailored to local realities, aligning with national food system priorities.