NAIROBI, Kenya- The urgency to address food insecurity and climate change has never been more pressing.
From April 7-12, Nairobi will host CGIAR Science Week 2025, a global summit bringing together scientists, policymakers, and industry leaders to drive solutions for a more sustainable food system.
With an estimated 350 million people worldwide facing hunger and climate change intensifying agricultural challenges, the event aims to chart a path forward through research and innovation.
Experts warn that rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall, and soil degradation threaten smallholder farmers, who form the backbone of food production in many parts of the world.
Dr. Ismahane Elouafi, Executive Managing Director of CGIAR, emphasized the critical role of science in tackling these challenges.
“Science and innovation have always been the backbone of human progress. Today, as we navigate a complex web of global challenges—from climate change to food insecurity—we need bold, collective action,” she said.
One of the key moments of the event will be the launch of CGIAR’s 2025-2030 Research Portfolio, an ambitious six-year program designed to revolutionize food production, enhance climate resilience, and improve nutrition.
The initiative, expected to mobilize between $6 billion and $12 billion, will support research across 100 countries, with Africa as a major focus.
Kenya’s agricultural sector is set to benefit from this global effort, with CGIAR partnering with the Kenyan Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) to explore groundbreaking solutions tailored to the region’s unique challenges.
KALRO Director General, Dr. Eliud Kireger, welcomed the collaboration, calling it a critical step toward empowering farmers with technology and knowledge that will enhance productivity while preserving natural resources.
CGIAR Science Week 2025 will feature expert panels, interactive showcases, and high-level discussions aimed at bridging the gap between scientific research and real-world application.
Topics on the agenda include artificial intelligence in agriculture, climate-smart crop breeding, and strategies to support women and youth in agribusiness.
As the countdown begins to this landmark event, Nairobi is poised to become the epicenter of global discussions on food security.
With experts, researchers, and policymakers converging to find solutions, CGIAR Science Week 2025 could mark a turning point in the fight against hunger and climate-related agricultural crises.