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research: Sustainable agrifood systems

Atubandike: Breaking down gender barriers in Zambia’s agricultural advisory services

Written by dmedina on . Posted in Blogs.

A digital champion trained by CIMMYT in climate-smart agricultural practices, shares her knowledge with her community (Photo: Moono Mwiinga Sekeleti/CIMMYT)

Zambia’s agricultural sector has long grappled with significant gender disparities, particularly in rural areas where women often face unique barriers to accessing essential agricultural information. Despite playing a critical role in food production, women remain significantly underrepresented as agricultural extension agents, a trend that persists not only in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) but also globally. Changing this narrative demands a coordinated effort from government, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), the private sector and communities to challenge deep-rooted stereotypes about women’s roles and capabilities in agriculture.[1]

The Atubandike approach, a key part of the Southern Africa Accelerated Innovation Delivery Initiative (AID-I) Rapid Delivery Hub, addresses these challenges head on. Through initiatives focusing on gender-inclusive seed systems and agricultural advisories on climate-smart agricultural (CSA) practices, Atubandike is actively working to increase women’s representation among Zambia’s agricultural advisors. By equipping communities with inclusive advisory services and training women and men digital champions, Atubandike is paving the way for a more equitable agricultural future.

This blog delves into the gender biases uncovered during recent community consultations organized by the AID-I Atubandike team in Zambia’s Southern Province across various rural districts, held in November 2023, as well as July 2024.[2] These consultations, aimed at addressing gender and youth stereotypes in agriculture, highlighted Atubandike’s initiatives to reshape the agricultural landscape for women and marginalized groups.

Community dialogues reveal deep-rooted gender biases in advisory access and spring up encouraging perspectives for female advisors

Staying true to the name, Atubandike—meaning “Let’s Chat” in Tonga—the AID-I team implementing the initiative, facilitated community discussions with over 1,700 farmers in Zambia’s Southern Province to explore underlying gender challenges in agriculture. Through these conversations, deep-seated gender biases emerged as a significant barrier. Many female agricultural advisors contend with cultural stereotypes that undermine their leadership and technical skills. As one participant noted, “Women are mostly seen as subordinates to men, so it is only natural that female agricultural advisors are viewed as less capable.” Such remarks highlight the difficult path women often tread to establish their authority in agricultural roles. Unfortunately, this bias isn’t limited to men; some female farmers also expressed a preference for male advisors, sharing the belief that “a fellow woman cannot provide valuable information.”

Women participating during a focus group discussion (Photo: Moono Mwiinga Sekeleti/CIMMYT)

Studies on agricultural extension services confirm that  gender disparities in advisory roles severely  limit women farmers’ access to timely, high-quality  information in SSA and other developing regions. This, in turn, impedes their ability to boost productivity and provide for their families. [3] Agricultural Advisory Services (AAS) are often designed with men as the primary beneficiaries, overlooking the need to make services more accessible and relevant to women. The dominance of male extension agents further exacerbates this issue, especially in societies where cultural norms restrict interactions between women and men outside their immediate family. These societal norms reinforce traditional gender roles, undermining the effectiveness of women as agricultural advisors. As a result, women are often excluded from opportunities that would enable them to fully participate in, and benefit from, agricultural development. This exclusion not only limits their potential but also perpetuates poverty and inequality.

On a positive note, a more nuanced perspective also emerged during the discussions. Some community members recognized the unique strengths that female advisors bring to their work. As one participant observed, “Female advisors are more careful and easier to talk to,” noting that women often prioritize technical knowledge, while men may base advice more on personal experience. This insight provides a glimmer of hope: with increased exposure and trust, farmers could become more receptive to female advisors, recognizing their effectiveness alongside their male colleagues.

A female farmer shares her experience during a CIMMYT visit to her village where farmers were discussing gender youth and social inclusion (Photo: Moono Mwiinga Sekeleti/CIMMYT)

In some settings, women farmers even prefer female advisors, feeling more comfortable discussing issues and having a greater sense of shared experiences. According to a study conducted in Mozambique, women farmers were more likely to be reached as well as learn when agricultural content was delivered by female advisors. [4] This highlights the potential impact of gender-sensitive approaches in improving the efficacy and accessibility of advisory services for women.

Achieving equal footing for women in AAS requires addressing a broader range of barriers. This not only entails efforts to recruit and retain women in these roles but also providing equal opportunities for education and training, as well as developing explicit policies to safeguard women advisors from gender-based discrimination.

Breaking barriers: How Atubandike is transforming AAS

The goal of the Atubandike approach is to identify, understand and dismantle entrenched gender barriers in agriculture. By adopting an innovative and inclusive strategy, this initiative equips both men and women with the tools they need to become digital champions and agricultural advisors, playing pivotal roles in their communities. With a deliberate focus on increasing female representation, Atubandike ensures that at least 50% of these champions are women, amplifying their visibility and influence in the sector.

Central to Atubandike is its emphasis on community engagement through a feedback-driven process. This approach facilitates open dialogue among community members, urging them to confront existing social biases and develop practical solutions. Through these discussions, the initiative fosters collective action aimed at promoting gender equity and social inclusion. Additionally, Atubandike provides comprehensive training on gender, diversity, and inclusion, equipping its digital champions not only with technical knowledge but also with the skills required to challenge and navigate gender biases effectively.

One of the initiative’s most transformative elements is its focus on diverse role models. By ensuring that half of its village-based digital champions are women, Atubandike boosts their digital literacy, agricultural expertise, and standing as leaders and role models within their communities.[5] These women are featured prominently in digital content and on talk shows, reshaping perceptions of women as agricultural leaders and breaking down longstanding negative narratives that have historically sidelined them.

Sustaining Atubandike’s momentum: Community-driven support for female advisors

Community members balanced the discussions by proposing valuable insights and strategies to overcome the deeply rooted stereotypes that challenge female agricultural advisors. Raising community awareness about the value of female advisors emerged as a crucial approach to fostering their acceptance. As one participant emphasized, “More training on gender norms is essential so that the community can become more open-minded.” Others argued that establishing trust in female advisors from the outset could empower them as agents of change: “If we begin by placing our trust in female agricultural advisors, we can encourage other communities to do the same.”

Community leaders were urged to facilitate meetings to address any disrespect toward agricultural advisors, irrespective of gender. A farmer emphasized the necessity of mutual respect, stating, “The community should be encouraged to work cooperatively with their agricultural advisors.”

Participants also highlighted that agricultural advisors must actively demonstrate their competence to build trust. In one community, it was stressed that both female and male advisors “must practice the agricultural technologies they promote so that people can have faith in their competence.” Additionally, participants suggested that advisors wear uniforms to clearly distinguish their professional roles, signaling their commitment to serving the community in an official capacity.

A model for inclusive agricultural development

Atubandike transcends the role of a conventional agricultural advisory initiative; it stands as a beacon of inclusive development, extending its impact across Zambia and setting a model for the region. By delving into the roots of gender bias and driving practical, community-led solutions, Atubandike aligns with the AID-I project’s mission of “delivering with a difference.” Through empowering female digital champions and fostering dialogues on social equity, Atubandike demonstrates that meaningful change is both attainable and sustainable. As a testament to AID-I’s dedication to equitable innovation and resilience, Atubandike is not only reshaping gender norms in Zambia but is also establishing itself as a blueprint for inclusive impact across Southern Africa’s agricultural landscape.

[1] BenYishay, A., Jones, M., Kondylis, F., & Mobarak, A. M. (2020). Gender gaps in technology diffusion. Journal of development economics, 143, 102380.

[2] The informed consent statement and methodology used in the community conversations are available upon request m.fisher@cgiar.org.

[3]Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. (2020). Gender and agricultural advisory services. https://www.gatesgenderequalitytoolbox.org/wp-content/uploads/BMGF_AG-Advisory-Services-Brief_web.pdf

[4] Kondylis, F., Mueller, V., Sheriff, G., & Zhu, S. (2016). Do female instructors reduce gender bias in the diffusion of sustainable land management techniques? Experimental evidence from Mozambique. World Development, 78, 436-449.

[5] Lecoutere, E., Spielman, D. J., & Van Campenhout, B. (2023). Empowering women through targeting information or role models: Evidence from an experiment in agricultural extension in Uganda. World Development, 167, 106240.

In Zimbabwe, Women Are Leading the Battle Against Climate Change

Written by dmedina on . Posted in In the media.

CIMMYT, through the CGIAR-supported Ukama Ustawi initiative, is supporting women farmers in Zimbabwe to lead the fight against climate change. By adopting climate-smart practices like zero tillage and growing drought-resistant crops such as orange maize, cowpeas, and lab-lab, farmers like Susan Chinyengetere are ensuring food security, generating income, and inspiring others. These techniques not only strengthen resilience against erratic weather but also enable women to balance traditional roles while driving sustainable agriculture. With access to affordable seeds, mechanization, and strong farmer networks, CIMMYT is fostering lasting solutions to climate adaptation across Zimbabwe and beyond.

Read the full story.

Conservation Agriculture Transforming Farming in Southern Africa

Written by dmedina on . Posted in In the media.

CIMMYT has been at the forefront of promoting conservation agriculture (CA) in Southern Africa, leveraging over 20 years of research to enhance food security and resilience to climate change. By introducing innovative mechanized tools like basin diggers, CIMMYT has significantly reduced labor demands, making CA more accessible for smallholder farmers. The organization collaborates with partners, including FAO, to integrate CA into national policies, such as Zambia’s mechanization strategy, while also providing education and technical support to farmers. CIMMYT’s efforts empower farmers to increase yields, improve soil health, and generate additional income, exemplifying its commitment to sustainable agriculture in the region.

Read the full story.

How Atubandike dialogues are redefining gender and youth inclusion in Zambian agriculture

Written by mcallejas on . Posted in Blogs.

Women and youth are essential drivers of agricultural and economic resilience in Zambia’s rural farming communities. However, they frequently encounter significant barriers such as restrictive social norms and inadequate access to vital resources which hinder their ability to participate fully in the economy.

Female youth sharing her views (Photo: Moono Seleketi).

Recognizing the critical roles of women and youth in shaping the present and future of Zambian agriculture, the ‘Atubandike’ approach, under CIMMYT’s USAID-funded Southern Africa Accelerated Innovation Delivery Initiative (AID-I) Rapid Delivery Hub project, has been actively engaging with communities to address systemic barriers faced by these groups. This initiative combines digital tools with face-to-face interactions, creating spaces where community members can share their stories, challenges, and questions to co-create solutions.

Atubandike, which means ‘let’s have a conversation’ in the local Tongo language, was launched in Zambia in 2023 as an advisory service. The model represents a scalable, community-led approach that empowers marginalized groups, including women and youth, as active contributors and leaders in agriculture. With each interaction building upon the previous one, this ongoing work advances the broader mission of fostering inclusivity and resilience across Zambia’s agricultural sector.

To uncover and tackle the structural barriers faced by women and youth, the Atubandike team recently engaged over 1,700 farmers across 14 communities in Southern Zambia, gaining critical insights into the biases that persist in rural areas.

Stereotypes and structural barriers

The community conversations highlighted generational divides and deeply rooted stereotypes that cast youth as disengaged or disinterested in farming. Older community members opined that young people are more drawn to urban lifestyles and reluctant to take on the demanding labor associated with agriculture. One elderly farmer said: “Many youths prefer a comfortable lifestyle and quick money. They don’t have the patience for the hard work farming requires.”

In contrast, younger participants shared that this perception overlooks the genuine obstacles they face such as limited access to land, financing, training, and mentorship opportunities. They emphasized that their lack of involvement often stems from these barriers rather than a lack of motivation.

Young male farmer speaking (Photo: Moono Seleketi).

The consultations also underscored pervasive gender norms that limit women’s roles in agriculture. Despite their significant contributions to household food security, female farmers are often relegated to secondary roles, focusing on ‘women’s crops such as groundnuts, while men cultivate staple crops such as maize and cash crops such as soybean. A participant shared, “The community always perceives men as the real farmers because they are considered the heads of the household.” This perception frequently limits women’s access to critical resources and their decision-making power within the agricultural sphere.

However, through Atubandike’s sessions, communities are beginning to confront these entrenched norms, shedding light on the vital contributions of women and youth in agriculture. This shift is laying the groundwork for a more equitable approach, where both men and women, young and old, are recognized as essential to farming success and household resilience. As these conversations grow, Atubandike is paving the way for solutions that promise meaningful and lasting change for both women and youth in agriculture.

Community-driven solutions

  • Building youth capacity through skills and leadership: Many community members expressed a strong desire to see more youth involved in agricultural activities, emphasizing the importance of hands-on training. “We need to get the youth involved in actual farming [tasks] such as irrigation and crop management. It keeps them busy and teaches them valuable skills,” shared one local leader.

To support this vision, Atubandike is training young community members as digital champions, equipping them with both technical expertise and leadership skills that allow them to mentor their peers and encourage youth participation in agriculture. These digital champions not only extend the reach of Atubandike’s initiatives but also serve as relatable role models, inspiring other young people to engage in agriculture as well as see it as a viable and rewarding path.

  •  Towards a more inclusive future for Zambian agriculture
    The Atubandike initiative – by fostering open community dialogue, empowering digital champions, and promoting household-level collaboration – lays the foundation for a more inclusive future for Zambian agriculture. As each community engagement builds momentum, CIMMYT, through the AID-I project, creates a cycle of empowerment and growth that ensures women and youth are not only heard but also empowered to lead.
Women celebrating at community meeting (Photo: Moono Seleketi).

Amidst the challenges of erratic weather patterns and economic constraints, building resilience through cross-generational and gender-inclusive collaboration is crucial. Atubandike is addressing these geographic and social challenges and paving the way for a future where every farmer, regardless of age or gender, plays a pivotal role in Zambia’s agricultural success.

Enhancing agricultural research with FAO’s AGRIS and AGROVOC programs: A conversation with CIMMYT’s knowledge management team

Written by mcallejas on . Posted in Blogs.

Farmer examines wheat seed (Photo: CIMMYT).

In a recent series of conversations with CGIAR knowledge management teams, Sara Jani and Valentina De Col interviewed Jesús Herrera de la Cruz, CIMMYT’s Deputy Director of Knowledge Management and Information Technologies. They discussed CGIAR’s collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) on AGRIS and AGROVOC – two key resources in agricultural research. AGRIS is a comprehensive bibliographic database focusing on agriculture and nutrition, while AGROVOC is a multilingual thesaurus covering a wide range of agricultural terms.

Benefits of being in AGRIS

CIMMYT has shared its knowledge products with AGRIS and plans to do so more. What are the benefits of your center’s participation in AGRIS?

Jesús: When I think about it, there’s one clear benefit: projection. AGRIS allows CIMMYT to be part of one of the most important databases in our field, if not the most important. This link allows us to showcase our work on a global scale. Another critical benefit is trust. AGRIS is a trusted source of accurate and reliable information. In today’s age, where the internet is flooded with information, having a trusted source like AGRIS is invaluable. It ensures that CIMMYT’s contributions are part of a verifiable and respected database, which is crucial to maintaining the integrity and credibility of our work.

Importance for CGIAR of sharing research results through AGRIS

From a broader perspective, do you think it is important for CGIAR to share its research results with a wider community and global users through AGRIS? If so, why?

Jesús: Absolutely, and it’s not just important—it’s our mandate. As part of our commitment to make our public goods as accessible as possible, AGRIS is one of the main channels we use to fulfill this mandate. The more we share our scientific outputs, the better we fulfil our mission. This sharing aligns with our goals and enhances our ability to collaborate and fulfil our mission.

CIMMYT’s knowledge content: content types and topics  

How would you describe the knowledge content produced by your center and made available through your repository? In which specific research areas does your center publish?

Jesús: CIMMYT focuses primarily on maize and wheat improvement, genetic resources and conservation agriculture. Recently, CIMMYT has expanded its research into other crops, although these newer projects are not yet strongly reflected in our repository. We expect this to change in the coming years as new research results becomes available. In addition to our scientific content, our repository includes institutional documents, such as financial reports and other forms of historical memory. These items are often overlooked, but they provide a richer understanding of the history of our work by offering insights into the context in which our research took place.

Importance of AGRIS for agricultural research institutions such as CGIAR

Do you think it is important for agricultural research institutions or networks such as CGIAR, to have access to a comprehensive bibliographic database such as AGRIS? If so, what are the specific benefits of having access to such a database?

Jesús: As I mentioned earlier, having access to AGRIS is more than important— it is essential. AGRIS is a cornerstone for ensuring we remain compliant with our mandate. It’s a trusted source that provides control and guarantees the credibility of the content within it. This reliability is invaluable to researchers and readers alike. AGRIS is a source of truth and its role in maintaining the integrity of our scientific output cannot be overstated.

Improving searchability and interoperability with AGROVOC

CGIAR contributes to and uses AGROVOC as a common vocabulary. How does this collaboration affect the discoverability and interoperability of your data?

Jesús: Absolutely. AGROVOC significantly enhances the discoverability and interoperability of our data. By using controlled vocabularies such as AGROVOC, we can ensure consistent and accurate data exchange across platforms. AGROVOC is the definitive controlled vocabulary in our field, and it plays a crucial role in maintaining the standardization necessary for seamless interoperability. For us, it’s not just a tool, it’s a cornerstone of our data management strategy, and it’s essential that it continues to be the standard.

The discussion focused on the role of AGRIS in increasing the visibility and accessibility of CIMMYT’s research results. By continuing to strengthen links with the AGRIS and AGROVOC programs, the CGIAR is well placed to increase the global impact of its research and ensure that vital agricultural knowledge reaches those who need it most around the world.

For more info on the CGIAR and FAO collaboration:

Report: https://hdl.handle.net/10568/116236

Brief: https://hdl.handle.net/10568/116448

Webinar: https://youtu.be/0klZSY1c0UU?si=mlVvEQSpF1KNFSvG

Exploration of options for functional seed systems and understanding of market needs for cereals and pulses in sub-Saharan Africa

Written by mcallejas on . Posted in Blogs.

Participants of the seed systems and market intelligence team at the retreat in Kenya (Photo: CIMMYT).

The Seed Systems and Market Intelligence Team of the Sustainable Agrifood Systems (SAS) Program convened for a three-day retreat in Kenya. The retreat provided an opportunity to review ongoing research on seed systems and market intelligence conducted across CIMMYT projcts and CGIAR initiatives.

The event featured oral and poster presentations highlighting key findings from current research activities, fostering constructive feedback from colleagues. Discussion focused on strengthening the team’s technical capacity and ensuring its responsiveness to CIMMYT’s research programs and the broader CGIAR science agenda.

During the retreat, team members presented research spanning a wide range of topics. One key area focused on understanding the demands of farmers, processors, and consumers, for future crop traits, with the aim of informing breeding systems programs to maximize their impact.

The team highlight challenges faced by agro-processors, such as rancidity in pearl millet, which affects the shelf life of processed millet flour. Research also explored groundnut processing across different countries, revealing varied market demands.

In Malawi, groundnut markets prioritize grain size, color and uniformity-driven largely by export requirements-while oil content is less of a focus. In contrast, Nigerian markets demand high oil content for kuli kuli production and show a preference for early maturing varieties. Meanwhile, in Tanzania, an emerging peanut butter market has created opportunities for new groundnut varieties tailored to this product.

Seed systems research in Kenya highlighted how information and economic incentives for farmers and agro-dealers can serve as effective policy options to boost the adoption of new maize hybrids. These strategies have the potential to increase the market share of newly introduced hybrids in the maize seed sector.

The team showcased the impact of providing variety-specific, independently evaluated yield data for commercially available seed products under local conditions to guide farmers’ seed choices. Additionally, they explored the use of rebates as incentives for agro-dealers to stock new products and actively encourage farmers to try them. The role of price discounts and targeted information at the retail level for newly released varieties was also discussed as a way to promote adoption among farmers.

Another key area of research focused on how farmers perceive existing promotional materials distributed by seed companies. Feedback indicated that most leaflets and posters were not visually engaging. Farmers expressed a preference for materials that include visuals of plant stands, cob sizes, yield potential, and other critical details, presented in local languages like swahili.

Looking ahead, the team outlined a new four-year project supported by the Impact Assessment Group under the Genetic Innovations Action Area. This initiative will build on the current findings to generate further evidence on how information can accelerate farmer adoption of new seed products. It will also examine the role of agro-dealers as key information agents to disseminate knowledge effectively to farmers.

The meeting also highlighted the assessment of varietal turnover in Ethiopia and the role of the DNA Fingerprinting (DNA FP) approach in improving the accuracy of varietal identification. Accurate data generated through this method supports more robust studies on varietal adoption, turnover, and impact. It also enables the assessment of whether released varieties are being cultivated within their target agro-ecologies and contributes to understanding varietal diversity within production systems.

Discussions emphasized the relevance of the DNA FP approach for accurate data collection and its potential for broader application beyond Ethiopia, Tanzania, and Nigeria, where the IMAGE project is currently active. Expanding its use to other regions would further strengthen research efforts in seed systems and market intelligence.

Paswel Marenya, associate program director of SAS Africa, commended the team for the depth and breadth of their research and encouraged greater visibility of results within CIMMYT and beyond. As a key outcome of the meeting, the team committed to increasing its visibility in seed systems and market intelligence research while building a stronger, more qualified team to achieve this goal.

In terms of staffing, the team has a solid presence in Africa but aims to expand its reach through enhanced resource mobilization. Efforts are underway to strengthen the Seed Systems and Market Intelligence team’s presence in other regions where CIMMYT operates, including Latin America (LATAM) and South Asia.

Strengthen the soil, strengthen the future of agri-food systems: The Economics of Healthy Soils for Sustainable Food Systems

Written by mcallejas on . Posted in Blogs.

Soil health is not just a medium for healthy crop production; it’s also a vital pillar to support sustainable food production and ultimately a nation’s economy. In India, where over 45% of the population works in agriculture, soil health underpins household and national food security, rural incomes and the economy at large. Despite this dependence, the ratio of agricultural production to the national income, i.e. GDP has fallen from 35% in 1990 to 15% in 2023, a decline driven by low productivity, shrinking farm incomes, and environmental degradation (Government of India, 2023).

A tractor operates in an agricultural field in India (Photo: CIMMYT).

India faces an annual economic loss of  ₹2.54 trillion annually—about 2% of its GDP—due to land degradation and unsustainable land-use practices (TERI, 2018). For smallholder farmers, soil degradation is a silent economic burden that reduces yields and increases input costs. In Bihar, studies by the Cereal Systems Initiative for South Asia (CSISA) show that droughts have a lasting impact on soil quality and agricultural productivity, with increasing frequency and severity exacerbating vulnerabilities in states like of Bihar and its neighboring states (Nageswararao et al., 2016; Singh et al., 2022).

The frequency of these drought conditions pushes farmers into a vicious cycle of low productivity, high costs for irrigation, and a growing dependence on non-farm income sources exacerbating the state’s vulnerability to drought (Kishore et al., 2014).

“CIMMYT India scientists greatly value the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues from ICAR and other NARES partners in supporting farmers to enhance soil health and achieve sustainable productivity”, said Alison Laing, CSISA project lead in India. “We are proud of the contribution we make alongside the Indian national systems to improving farmers’ livelihoods”, she added

Investing in solutions for soil resilience

Addressing soil degradation and climate challenges requires investment in climate-resilient agricultural technologies, and robust agronomic research. Evidence-based policies are critical to sustain agriculture, improve farmer well-being and ensure food and economic security.

A promising innovation is the Soil Intelligence System (SIS), launched in 2019 under CSISA. Initially operational in Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, and Odisha, SIS generates high-quality soil data and digital maps to provide farmers with precise agronomic recommendations. These recommendations help reduce fertilizer and water overuse, improving efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By empowering smallholder farmers with data-driven decision-making, SIS exemplifies how technology can enhance productivity and sustainability.

SIS’s success extends beyond the farm. Data-driven insights have influenced policies like the Andhra Pradesh State Fertilizer and Micronutrient Policy, demonstrating the potential of soil health management to drive systemic agricultural reforms.

Working in Andhra Pradesh, Bihar and Odisha, SIS uses soil spectroscopy and digital mapping to improve sustainable soil management, reduce costs and increase productivity for smallholder farmers. (Photo: CIMMYT)

The 3M Framework: measure, monitor and manage

This year’s World Soil Day theme, “Caring for Soils: Measure, Monitor, Manage,” highlights the importance of data driven soil management. By measuring key indicators like organic carbon levels and erosion rates, and monitoring changes overtime, policymakers can develop sustainable strategies for soil restoration.

Scaling initiatives like SIS is crucial. Robust soil monitoring programs can inform better alignment between subsidies and sustainable practices. Together with state and central governments, NGOs, and other research organizations, CIMMYT is actively collaborating with farmers to measure, monitor and manage soil health for long-term sustainability and resilience.

 

References:

  1. Government of India (2023). Contribution of agriculture in GDP. Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare. Accessed online.
  2. TERI (2018). Economics of Desertification, Land Degradation and Drought in India, Vol I. The Energy and Resources Institute. Accessed online.
  3. Nageswararao, M.M., Dhekale, B.S., & Mohanty, U.C. (2016). Impact of climate variability on various Rabi crops over Northwest India. Theoretical and Applied Climatology, 131(503–521). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00704-016-1991-7.
  4. Singh, A. & Akhtar, Md. P. (2022). Drought-like situation in Bihar: Study and thought of sustainable strategy. IWRA (India) Journal, 11(1). Accessed online.
  5. Kishore, A., Joshi, P.K., & Pandey, D. (2014). Droughts, Distress, and Policies for Drought Proofing Agriculture in Bihar, India. IFPRI Discussion Paper 01398. https://ssrn.com/abstract=2545463.

The other revolution that was born in Mexico: The legacy of sustainable transformation and its new roots

Written by dmedina on . Posted in Blogs.

Members of the Maíz Criollo Kantunil group next to a plot of land cultivated using sustainable practices (Photo: Jenifer Morales/CIMMYT)

The Mexican Revolution was not the only transformative movement to emerge in Mexico. Another profound transformation began in the Mexican countryside, and today, far from guns, today it continues to drive a more peaceful and resilient society through the integration of science, innovation and ancestral knowledge. 

In the 1960s, Mexico set a precedent for global agricultural change. Today, that movement has evolved into a sustainability approach that responds to today’s challenges: climate change, biodiversity loss and the need to ensure food security. Under CIMMYT’s leadership, the Hub model has established itself as a key tool for delivering scientific solutions to producers, strengthening resilient and sustainable agricultural systems. 

At CIMMYT, we believe that ensuring food security means not only producing healthier food but also conserving natural resources such as soil and water and promoting the well-being of farmers and their communities. Through the Hub model, we have promoted practices such as the sustainable management of staple crops such as maize and related crops, and the use of strategies to strengthen the seed system to meet the challenges of the agricultural sector. 

A clear example of this approach is the Maíz Criollo Kantunil group in Yucatán. Led by Edgar Miranda, this collective of eight families has adopted innovative practices such as regenerative agriculture, efficient water use and agroecological pest management. By linking with the Hub model, the group has been able to conserve native seeds, strengthen local agroecology and generate social and productive benefits for their community. 

“Our main objective is that the next generations will have seeds available to meet their food needs,” said Edgar Miranda. “We work with sustainable practices that allow us to conserve our resources and produce healthy crops,” he added. 

In addition to supporting producers, the Hub model fosters associativity and community participation, essential pillars for building inclusive and resilient food systems. These activities are in line with national initiatives such as strengthening production chains, but also reflect CIMMYT’s commitment to a global approach to sustainable development. 

CIMMYT’s strategy in Mexico not only supports producers in transforming their agricultural systems, but also promotes strategic alliances with public and private actors. These collaborations strengthen the integration of scientific solutions and sustainable practices, stimulate innovation in rural communities, and promote resilience to the challenges of climate change. With an approach based on science, inclusiveness and continuous learning, CIMMYT continues to contribute to building a more equitable, sustainable and prosperous future for Mexico and the world. 

ZARI promotes climate-smart agriculture to strengthen research excellence, innovation, and sustainability

Written by dmedina on . Posted in News.

The Zambia Agricultural Research Institute (ZARI) has undergone a significant transformation, fueled by a strategic subgrant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation through the Africa Dryland Crop Improvement Network (ADCIN). Established in August 2023 and convened by CIMMYT through its Dryland Crops Program (DCP), ADCIN is a collaborative network aimed at uniting over 200 scientists from more than 17 countries across sub-Saharan Africa. Its mission is to create a dynamic and sustainable network to develop and deliver improved varieties of dryland crops in the region. By leveraging the collective expertise of its multidisciplinary members, ADCIN strives to accelerate the access of enhanced crop varieties to smallholder farmers.

This support has led to the modernization of ZARI’s research facilities, improved irrigation systems, and enhanced data management capabilities, positioning the institute as a leader in climate-smart crop research. Key advances include speed breeding and controlled drought research, which have led to higher crop yields and better adaptation to climate challenges. These improvements have not only strengthened Zambia’s agricultural research capacity but also fostered regional collaboration and knowledge sharing, benefiting farmers, scientists, and institutions across Southern Africa. The institute’s improved infrastructure, including expanded water storage and solar power, has ensured uninterrupted research, even during power outages. As a model for other NARES institutions, ZARI’s transformation highlights the critical role of strategic investment in agricultural research to address the growing challenges of climate change and food security across Africa.

We caught up with Dr. Loyd Mbulwe, the Ag. Chief Agriculture Research Officer at ZARI, to get more insight into the upgrade.

Q: What were some of the challenges ZARI faced before the upgrades?

A: ZARI faced several research-related challenges that hampered its potential for innovation. These included limited access to essential research equipment, inadequate funding for critical projects, and insufficient capacity for data management and analysis. Collaboration and knowledge sharing with regional and international partners were also limited.

In terms of infrastructure, ZARI struggled with outdated laboratory facilities, inefficient greenhouse and irrigation systems, and limited storage space for seeds and plant materials. The institution’s ICT infrastructure was inadequate to support modern agricultural research needs. Operational efficiency was hampered by manual data collection, inefficient research protocols, and inadequate standard operating procedures.

Q: How has the upgrade helped ZARI overcome these challenges, and how has it improved the quality and quantity of research coming out of ZARI?

A: Recent upgrades at ZARI have significantly improved its research capabilities. New equipment and increased funding have supported larger projects, while improved data management systems have streamlined data handling and fostered greater collaboration with regional and international partners. The addition of a modern greenhouse and upgraded irrigation systems has improved water management and allowed for more controlled experiments. Expanded seed storage capacity now ensures the secure preservation of critical plant material for future research.

Automated data collection systems have reduced errors and increased efficiency, while standardized research procedures have improved the quality and reproducibility of results. Improved research documentation and targeted staff training programs have further enhanced research skills, enabling the team to produce more impactful results.

The newly constructed greenhouse facility enhances crop breeding and genetics research, enabling efficient off-season studies.  (Photo: ZARI/Zambia)
Q: How has ZARI’s research capacity improved with the upgraded facilities and new equipment?

A: ZARI has undergone significant upgrades to improve its research capacity. The new greenhouse facility has improved crop breeding and genetics research, allowing for more efficient off-season research. Speed breeding, a technique that accelerates crop generation turnover by two to five times through controlled environmental conditions, has been a game changer. The greenhouse also enables controlled drought research, providing insights into the development of climate-resilient crops. The ZAMGRO project has increased ZARI’s water storage capacity from 45 m² to 3.6 million m², enabling year-round farming and improved water management. The subgrant also enabled the installation of solar power, addressing the electricity challenges caused by recent droughts. The move to Starlink internet connectivity has also improved ZARI’s online capabilities, providing reliable, uninterrupted internet access, even in remote research sites.

An aerial view of the installed solar panels, that has resolved electricity challenges and mitigating power outages. (Photo: ZARI/Zambia)
Q: Looking ahead, what are ZARI’s future plans? Are there any further upgrades or expansions planned for the future?

A: ZARI’s future plans focus on increasing its research impact through strategic partnerships and innovation. The institute aims to establish a center of excellence for climate-smart agriculture and develop a biotechnology laboratory to advance genetic improvement and crop resilience. Expanding greenhouse and irrigation systems and improving digital infrastructure for data management are also priorities. ZARI also plans to strengthen collaborations with international research institutions and pursue public-private partnerships to transfer technology from research to practical applications. In addition, ZARI is committed to human resource development through targeted training, fellowships, and mentorship programs to nurture future researchers.

Q: What steps is ZARI taking to ensure the long-term sustainability of the upgraded facilities and research programs?

A: ZARI has implemented a comprehensive plan to ensure the long-term sustainability of its upgraded facilities and research programs. Key areas include maintenance of facilities, continuation of research programs, capacity building, partnerships, and knowledge sharing. ZARI has secured funding from partners and donors, diversified its income streams, and developed sustainable research funding models. Staff training, mentoring programs, and collaboration with international experts are key to ensuring that the research team stays abreast of new technologies. Strategic partnerships with private sector companies, joint research initiatives, and technology transfer agreements have further strengthened ZARI’s research capabilities. Regular impact assessments and collaborations with universities, research institutes, and government agencies further strengthen ZARI’s research capabilities and ensure that programs remain relevant and impactful.

An aerial view of the water storage system during installation. This has increased the capacity to support year-round farming and improved water management. (Photo: ZARI/Zambia)
Q: In what ways can this facility upgrade serve as a model or inspiration for other NARES facilities in the region? Are there any best practices that ZARI would recommend for similar projects?

A: The ZARI facility upgrade serves as a model for other NARES institutions in several significant ways. First, it highlights the importance of strategic partnerships, demonstrating how collaboration with regional and international organizations can lead to meaningful progress. Second, it emphasizes capacity building, with a focus on investing in staff training and development to improve institutional performance.

There are also several inspirational aspects to ZARI’s transformation. It demonstrates the transformative impact that research modernization can have on NARES breeding programs and shows the potential for improving agricultural research capacity. In addition, the upgrade is highly regionally relevant, addressing pressing regional challenges.

Finally, ZARI’s best practices provide valuable lessons for other institutions. The irrigation upgrade is an outstanding example, tailored to address the unique challenges posed by climate change in the region.

Unboxing the Starlink hardware: Transitioning to Starlink ensures reliable and uninterrupted internet access, even in remote research sites. (Photo: ZARI/Zambia)
Q: What was ADCIN’s role in facilitating this strategic investment, and how does it fit into the broader vision of strengthening NARES institutions across Africa?

A: ADCIN plays a key role in supporting the development and modernization of NARES institutions across Africa. Its contributions can be seen in three key areas. First, ADCIN provides technical assistance by offering expertise in research infrastructure development. Second, it provides financial support by mobilizing the resources needed to upgrade facilities. Third, ADCIN provides strategic guidance, ensuring that investments are aligned with regional research priorities and agendas.

This support fits into the broader vision of strengthening NARES institutions across the continent. ADCIN’s efforts focus on improving research capacity through upgrading facilities and equipment, fostering collaboration by promoting regional and international partnerships, and improving research quality through stronger research management and governance. As a result of ADCIN’s support, NARES institutions such as ZARI have seen significant improvements. Research output and impact have increased, regional collaboration has been strengthened, and institutions now have better access to international funding. By supporting ZARI’s strategic investments, ADCIN reaffirms its commitment to strengthening NARES institutions and promoting excellence in agricultural research across Africa.

Agro fair in Kailali rejuvenates farmers

Written by dmedina on . Posted in In the media.

In May, CIMMYT, in collaboration with the local government, organized an Agriculture Fair in Janaki Rural Municipality, Kailali district, Nepal, introducing farmers to modern farming techniques and machinery. The event inspired farmers like Ramfal Badayak, chairman of Biz Briddhi Krishak Cooperative, to adopt advanced tools, leading his cooperative to purchase two plant cultivators that now save time and labor for all members. With over 40 stalls and more than 4,000 daily visitors, the fair also benefited local suppliers by enabling direct sales to farmers, reducing costs by eliminating middlemen. This transformative event exemplified the potential of such platforms to modernize agriculture and support local communities.

Read the full story.

Sustainable Agri-Food Colombia: a boost for resilient agriculture

Written by mcallejas on . Posted in News.

Biofortified corn crop in Colombia (Photo: CIMMYT)

CIMMYT, in collaboration with the Bioversity-CIAT Alliance and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of Colombia, is contributing to the Sustainable Agri-Food Colombia project. This transformative initiative aims to reshape Colombia’s agricultural sector by fostering sustainable and resilient agri-food systems. Several research institutions are also part of this mission as strategic implementing partners.

The goal of Sustainable Agri-Food Colombia is to address the environmental and production challenges facing Colombian agriculture, while ensuring food security and sustainability. Through the implementation of innovative technologies, better agricultural practices and adaptation to climate change, it aims to improve the competitiveness of Colombian producers and reduce pressure on natural resources. In this sense, the project contributes to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially those related to climate action, life on earth and reducing inequalities. 

CIMMYT is collaborating in this project to join efforts to strengthen farmers’ capacities, as Sustainable Agri-Food Colombia focuses not only on agricultural production, but on the entire agri-food system, seeking to build more inclusive and efficient value chains, from production to the consumer, emphasizing community participation and knowledge transfer in an inclusive manner, involving women, youth and marginalized rural communities in decision-making processes and technology adoption. 

The collaboration between international CGIAR research centers, such as the Bioversity-CIAT Alliance and CIMMYT, together with key stakeholders in Colombia, demonstrates that the future of agriculture depends on an integrated vision that combines science, innovation and collaboration. This lays the foundation for transforming agriculture and food in Colombia for the benefit of people and the planet. 

‘I have bigger plans ahead’ – The journey of Tichaona from odd-job man to agricultural entrepreneur

Written by dmedina on . Posted in Blogs.

Tichaona transporting hay bales using his acquired two-wheel tractor (Photo: Dorcas Matangi, CIMMYT)

In the heart of Mbire’s Ward 2 in Zimbabwe, Tichaona Makuwerere has earned the trust of his community, not just as a farmer but also as a resourceful problem-solver. His journey began with “piece jobs” — manual labor that barely made ends meet. From providing firewood and bricks to renting an ox-drawn cart, Tichaona’s days were filled with tough and gritty work. Occasionally, he crossed into Zambia to collect baobab fruit for sale, returning with livestock pesticides, which he traded locally.

However, stability remained elusive. Jobs were scarce, and community hiring often favored personal connections. Undeterred, Tichaona turned to self-employment in 2007, offering ox-drawn ripping services to farmers. His commitment didn’t go unnoticed. When the CGIAR Agroecology Initiative (AEI) came to Mbire, the community recognized Tichaona’s entrepreneurial spirit and nominated him as a service provider.

Catalyst for change: CGIAR Agroecology Initiative 

The CGIAR-funded Transformational Agroecology across Food, Land, and Water Systems (AE-I) aims to empower farmers like Tichaona to lead their communities toward sustainable agricultural practices.

AE-I brings together farmers and stakeholders to address local challenges and develop practical solutions in Mbire and Murewa. Through Agroecological Living Landscapes (ALLs)—collaborative spaces for innovation—various stakeholders work to identify, co-design, test, and adopt agroecological practices. One challenge identified was that agroecology can be labor-intensive, highlighting the need to reduce labor demands by integrating mechanization for manual activities such as crop planting, manure transportation, and threshing. Partnering with private sector organizations like Kurima Machinery, AE-I provides farmers in Mbire and Murewa with the tools and training necessary to make mechanized services more accessible.

Equipped for success through training and support 

Tichaona’s journey with AE-I began with intensive training at Gwebi College of Agriculture in Zimbabwe, where he learned the intricacies of machine operation, repair, and business management. The hands-on experience gave him the confidence he needed. “It was a turning point,” said Tichaona. “The training gave me skills that are hard to come by here. I learned how to run and sustain an agricultural service business.”

In addition, Kurima Machinery provided practical guidance and support when delivering his new equipment kit, which included a two-wheel tractor, trailer, grass cutter, chopper grinder, ripper, thresher, and basin digger. Although Tichaona had no prior experience with engines, his determination, along with Kurima’s ongoing virtual support, helped him develop the skills needed to operate and maintain the equipment.

Scaling up from oxen to efficient mechanization

The kit has dramatically transformed Tichaona’s way of working. Where he once struggled with oxen, the two-wheel tractor can now complete a three-hour task in just 30 minutes. This leap in efficiency has enabled him to expand his services beyond ripping and transportation. Tichaona now offers grass cutting, baling, grinding, threshing, and basin digging services.

Mechanization has not only streamlined his business but also significantly increased his clientele. Previously, he served around 50 clients per year; now, with the tractor, he supports over 200 annual clients, many of whom are repeat customers. In a region where animal feed is scarce during the dry season, Tichaona’s baling services have become especially valuable. Over the past year, he has produced more than 3,000 bales, even attracting safari operators who use the bales as bait for animals.

“Hatisi kumira kutsvaga mabasa” (We keep going forward and look for new jobs), Tichaona reflected with pride. In his drive to grow, he has further diversified his services to include grinding forest products such as Faidherbia albida, acacia, and Piliostigma thonningii pods, producing affordable livestock feed for farmers. He acquired these skills during livestock feed production training at the ALLs.

Mechanization has not only improved productivity but also mitigated environmental risks. Grass cutting and baling have curbed the practice of uncontrolled burning, which previously caused frequent veld fires in Mbire and Murehwa. In recognition of the project’s success in promoting sustainable land use, the Environmental Management Authority (EMA) has invested in additional service kits for other wards.

Transporting grass bales in Mbire for local farmers (Photo: Dorcas Matangi, CIMMYT)
Strengthening Resilience Amid Climate Uncertainty

Tichaona’s services have become indispensable in a community grappling with erratic weather patterns and prolonged droughts. By baling grass, sorghum stalks, and crop residues, he enables farmers to store feed for their livestock, mitigating risks during drought seasons. The benefits extend beyond livestock care—his machinery has helped farmers expand cultivable areas despite a shrinking planting season.

Moreover, Tichaona has stepped up as a water carrier during the dry months. With wells drying up, villagers often dig makeshift wells in distant riverbeds. Using his tractor, Tichaona fetches water from the borehole for the community. His efforts free up time for farmers to focus on land preparation and other critical tasks, boosting their productivity.

Building a Lasting Legacy at the Community Level

Tichaona’s success has translated into significant improvements for his family. His increased income has allowed him to build a new home and purchase land in Guruve town. He has also invested in goats for his children as a form of social security. “Kudya kaviri kwaitonetsa, ikozvino takutodya uye atichatenderi kuti muenzi asvika abve pamba asina kudya (We could barely afford two meals a day, but now we eat more than four meals. We ensure that no visitor leaves without eating),” he shared.

His generosity extends beyond his family. Tichaona provides free transportation for vulnerable residents, including the elderly, and offers free grinding services to low-income families. These acts of kindness have solidified his reputation as a respected and valued member of the community.

A Model of Adaptability and Determination

Tichaona’s journey has not been without challenges. Mechanical issues, such as trailer body wear, brake replacements, and two-wheel tractor bearing failures, have tested his resourcefulness. He stocks essential spare parts, conducts regular maintenance, and leverages Kurima Machinery’s support network for troubleshooting and repairs. Collaborating with other AE-I operators, he shares tips and techniques for maintaining machinery, ensuring consistent and reliable services.

As his confidence and skills grow, Tichaona is planning to expand his offerings. He envisions adding oil pressing for sunflower and groundnut as well as peanut butter production. Already, he has invested in a grinding mill operated by his wife, allowing him to focus on field services. His ambitions extend to poultry farming, where he plans to use his chopper grinder to produce feed, incorporating local products into his supply chain.

“Ndine hurongwa hukuru” (I have bigger plans ahead), Tichaona said. He dreams of drilling a borehole to support horticulture production, a venture that would benefit not only his family but also nearby farmers by providing easier access to water. His ultimate goal is to establish a comprehensive agricultural service hub, offering everything from land preparation to livestock feed production, to strengthen the community’s resilience.

A Model for Agroecological Transformation

Tichaona’s story exemplifies the far-reaching impact of empowering local service providers in rural agriculture. Through the CGIAR Agroecology Initiative, he transformed from being a community handyman to a pioneering agricultural entrepreneur in Mbire. His contributions not only enhanced agricultural efficiency and overall life for himself and his community, but also offered a blueprint for sustainable development in agriculture. His story reminds us that when local expertise is supported and equipped, it can transform communities into models of resilience and sustainable growth.

Training the next generation of plant breeders with VACS

Written by dmedina on . Posted in Blogs.

The foundation for a Vision for Adapted Crops and Soil (VACS) is capacity building: to boost adoption of opportunity crops, for nutritional security, diverse and climate-resilient cropping systems, to build healthy soils, a cohort of researchers and professionals is being supported to improve opportunity crops in Africa. Launched in October 2024 in Nairobi, Kenya, the VACS Capacity Project aims to train scholars and professionals in the latest plant breeding technologies. Professor Julia Sibiya, VACS Capacity Project Lead at CIMMYT, elaborates on how the project aims to contribute to the promotion, development and delivery of improved “crops that nourish” people, and the planet.

As part of the VACS Capacity Project, 30 Master and PhD students will be mentored by prominent experts in plant breeding. What support will they receive?

The students will be exposed to the latest technologies in plant breeding but will also learn from their mentors to deliver the VACS vision on opportunity crops and healthy soils.

The project also includes training of 40 mid-careers professionals. We want them to master the latest technologies and be able to apply them to develop improved opportunity crop varieties that will be used by farmers.

To achieve this goal, the VACS Capacity Project is supported by three hubs to facilitate the training by matching the scholars and professionals with appropriate mentors and institutes where they will be exposed to the latest research and technologies. The selected hubs are the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA-Nigeria), the West Africa Centre for Crop Improvement (WACCI) in Ghana, and the Biosciences eastern and central Africa-International Livestock Research Institute (BecA-ILRI) in Kenya. The hubs have “support entities” through Iowa State University and Cornell University.

For maximum and long-term impact, the CIMMYT Academy, with the support of the Sustainable Agrifood Systems program, is developing gender-aware mentoring and curriculum on a wide range of topics, to directly address priorities of the 70 scholars and professionals. Expertise is being sourced at institutions such as Iowa State University, CIMMYT and African universities for robust e-learning modules on the entire plant breeding pipeline and seed systems, with materials updated and designed for the African continent.

What gaps does the VACS Capacity Project aim to address?

Today, in Africa, very few plant breeders and scientists working on plant improvement are focusing on the opportunity crops identified by VACS, such as finger millet, bambara groundnut, and amaranth. Most breeders focus on the main staples. This is why we want to build a critical mass of scientists who work on opportunity crops that are vital for food security and nutrition under climate change.

Besides increasing the critical mass of researchers working on the opportunity crops, we also want to bring up-to-date the skills of professionals in the breeding sector, which is a sector where technologies are evolving very quickly. Most of the approaches to crop improvement used today differ greatly from approaches used ten years ago, hence the request by many professionals to upgrade their skills.

In addition to the long-term training fellowships for Master and PhD students, we will provide targeted skills training to professionals, with short-term placements between one and six months in institutions where they can learn cutting-edge techniques that they will apply to opportunity crops.

The project is also designed to build networks and communities of practice around these crops, so people can collaborate in breeding and scaling efforts that are requested by farmers and consider market intelligence for impact pathways. This is in addition to exchanging knowledge and germplasm.

How does this project differ from other plant breeding capacity building projects?

The difference is that we will place professionals into institutions where they will be provided with hands-on training. We will work with universities, international research institutes, and the private sector, including seed companies. This is like offering internships to mid-career professionals who want to upgrade their skills or learn new ones.

Our approach also includes mentorships for both scholars and professionals. Mentors will be recruited from all over the world to assist the fellows in various aspects of their research journey. Last but not least, we hope to see researchers working with farmers so they can learn from each other.

What are the expected outcomes of reaching a “critical mass of plant breeders”?

The objective is to have sufficient breeders to implement crop breeding programs designed for opportunity crops. We also want to encourage them to apply modern techniques to improve opportunity crops and, this way, to contribute to the development of more nutritious plants that are grown in healthy soils. As I mentioned earlier, besides empowering scientists themselves, we also aim to create the conditions for effective collaboration and partnerships for the successful delivery of improved opportunity crop varieties, and this delivery will be accelerated by reducing the breeding cycle. Overall, it will allow us to scale up efforts towards opportunity crops worldwide.

Atubandike (“Let’s Chat”)

Written by dmedina on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Atubandike (“Let’s Chat”) is a phygital platform co-developed by CIMMYT, Viamo, and farmers to transform agricultural information channels in Zambia’s Eastern and Southern Provinces. Through the toll-free 667 platform, 4,000 farmers – more than 50% of whom are women – access an interactive voice response (IVR) menu powered by a Viamo Database (see infographic). The platform delivers timely and engaging pre-recorded messages on climate-smart agriculture (CSA); enables farmers to ask questions, which informs content for the platform’s biweekly “talk shows” (like radio shows but on a mobile phone); and provides a space for them to share their stories as “peer farmer experiences” on the platform.

(Infographic: Eugune Mumiah, Project Milieu Group)

Atubandike’s model involves farmers as co-creators, not merely recipients, of advisory content. Their contributions are curated by a content committee – with farmer, government, and scientist representation – before being published on the 667 platform. Village-based digital champions (50% women, 42% youth aged 18-29) play a crucial role in supporting farmers’ digital skills and promoting trust in digital advisory; they also act as intermediaries between farmers and CIMMYT to address time-sensitive farming questions immediately.

The Atubandike initiative mobilizes local communities to take collective action in challenging social norms that underpin digital access divides. Through community-driven efforts, digital champions are nominated and social changemakers selected to promote inclusive access to the platform.

Together, we are advancing awareness and uptake of CSA practices to boost agricultural productivity and climate change adaptation, using on-the-ground insights to continuously refine Atubandike’s services and ensure every farmer, across the spectrum of demographic groups, thrives in today’s dynamic agricultural landscape.

Listen to Atubandike’s Talk Show:
(Photo: Moono Sekeleti)
(Photo: Moono Sekeleti)

 

 

CIMMYT at the World Agri-Tech Innovation Summit 2024

Written by dmedina on . Posted in News.

At the World Agri-Tech Innovation Summit, CIMMYT was distinguished through Jelle Van Loon, Juan Cortina, and Andrea Gardeazabal, who are driving collaboration, the use of open data, and regenerative practices to address the climate crisis and transform agriculture.

Jelle Van Loon during his participation in the panel “Transitioning to Regenerative Agriculture in Mexico: Corporate and Government Programs Supporting Small Growers to Adopt Climate-Smart Practices.” (Photo: Francisco Alarcón / CIMMYT)

At the recent World Agri-Tech Innovation Summit (October 29-30), two representatives and a member of CIMMYT’s Board of Directors—Jelle Van Loon (Associate Director of Sustainable Agri-Food Systems and Regional Representative for Latin America), Andrea Gardeazabal (Manager of Monitoring and Evaluation of Information and Communication Technology for Agriculture at CIMMYT), and Juan Cortina (member of CIMMYT’s Board of Directors and President of the National Agricultural Council)—shared a comprehensive view on the challenges and progress towards a more sustainable and resilient agriculture. The event brought together global leaders in technology, innovation, and sustainability, serving as a platform to highlight CIMMYT’s role in transforming the agri-food sector.

Andrea Gardeazabal, in her presentation, highlighted the urgency of addressing the climate crisis with actions based on data and collaboration. “With 10 years of data on regenerative practices, we are moving towards an agriculture that not only restores ecosystems but also responds to the challenges of climate change,” Andrea said. She emphasized the importance of creating an environment of open and standardized data access for regenerative agriculture to scale globally. Through a long-term testing network and the development of digital technologies, CIMMYT has laid the groundwork for practices that optimize agronomic management and improve water use efficiency—critical in the current context of water scarcity.

Andrea Gardeazabal, during her participation in the World Agri-Tech Innovation Summit. (Photo: Francisco Alarcón / CIMMYT)

Juan Cortina underscored the importance of collaboration between Mexico and the United States for the growth of Mexico’s agri-food sector. He emphasized how nearshoring, promoted since the signing of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA), has allowed Mexico to specialize in products that complement U.S. production. “Our country is the ninth-largest agricultural producer and the seventh-largest agro-exporter in the world, which demonstrates the impact of strategic collaboration in North America,” said Cortina. He also highlighted that this supply chain integration, strengthened by access to key inputs such as U.S. corn, is vital for the region’s food security.

Jelle Van Loon emphasized that CIMMYT’s role at the World Agri-Tech Summit reflects the organization’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. He highlighted how Andrea and Juan’s interventions underscored CIMMYT’s multidimensional approach: combining science and practice, applying advanced technology, and fostering global partnerships to accelerate agricultural transformation. “Our work at CIMMYT is an example of how collaboration and knowledge-sharing can have a real and lasting impact on agriculture and global food security,” concluded Jelle.

Juan Cortina, a member of CIMMYT’s Board of Directors, participates in the panel discussion “Capitalizing on Nearshoring: Alliances between Mexico and International Partners.” (Photo: Francisco Alarcón / CIMMYT)

CIMMYT’s message at the event was clear: to scale up regenerative agriculture and address climate challenges, we need more data, more collaboration, and a shared vision of the future. In Andrea’s words: “Safe and sustainable agricultural transformation will only be possible if we work together and share our progress and knowledge on a global scale.”

Innovation in the agricultural sector demonstrates that science, technology, and collaboration are essential to achieve resilient, inclusive, and sustainable agriculture. These forums encourage the agri-food sector to strengthen collaborative networks and food security, thus promoting a brighter agricultural future.