What is the story about?
What's Happening?
The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) has launched its Strategic Plan 2025-2030, aimed at transforming dryland agriculture in response to climate change, land degradation, and rural poverty. Announced at the Africa Food Systems Forum in Dakar, Senegal, the plan focuses on three pillars: developing climate-smart crop varieties, advancing regenerative farming, and transforming agri-food systems through innovation. The strategy aligns with the CGIAR 2030 Research & Innovation Strategy and seeks to accelerate climate-smart, nutrition-sensitive, and market-driven agricultural transformation. ICRISAT emphasizes the importance of partnerships to achieve sustainable food security and economic growth in Africa's drylands.
Why It's Important?
This strategic initiative is crucial as it addresses pressing global challenges affecting semi-arid regions, which are vulnerable to climate change and food insecurity. By focusing on climate-smart agriculture and inclusive growth, ICRISAT aims to empower rural economies, women, and youth, while restoring ecosystems. The plan's alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals highlights its potential to contribute to global food security and economic stability. The collaboration between ICRISAT and governments, such as the MoU with Senegal, underscores the importance of partnerships in driving agricultural innovation and resilience.
What's Next?
ICRISAT plans to implement its strategy over the next five years, focusing on developing and disseminating high-performing, climate-resilient crop varieties. The partnership with Senegal's Ministry of Agriculture will pilot improved cereal and legume varieties tailored to local needs. ICRISAT calls for strategic partnerships to transform challenges into opportunities for a food-secure, equitable, and sustainable world. The success of this initiative could serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges, potentially influencing global agricultural policies and practices.
Beyond the Headlines
The strategy's emphasis on inclusive partnerships and innovation highlights the ethical dimension of ensuring equitable access to resources and technology. By fostering knowledge exchange across the Global South, ICRISAT aims to create a collaborative environment that supports sustainable development. The focus on empowering women and youth addresses social inequalities and promotes gender equity in agriculture, which is essential for long-term societal progress.
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