NAIROBI, Kenya – A sustainable food system provides food for everyone while also preserving the environment and economic base for future generations.
This can be achieved by making food systems more productive, inclusive, and environmentally friendly.
Against this backdrop, CGIAR, a global partnership that unites international organisations engaged in research about food security in collaboration with the Kenyan Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), is set to host CGIAR Science Week 2025.
The event Y News understands will run from April 7-12 in Nairobi, Kenya.
This flagship gathering will bring together leading scientists, policymakers, and stakeholders at the intersection of agriculture, climate, and health to drive action toward a sustainable global food system.
The global challenge: A call for science-driven solutions
With nearly 350 million people worldwide facing extreme hunger, and climate change posing an increasing threat to food production, the urgency for transformative agricultural innovations has never been greater.
Rising global temperatures, unpredictable rainfall, and increasing food insecurity underscore the need for scientific breakthroughs that can safeguard food, land, and water systems while supporting smallholder farmers and vulnerable communities.
“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,” said Dr. Ismahane Elouafi, Executive Managing Director of CGIAR.
How can we maintain collaboration in agricultural innovation? At the CGIAR and @BelgiumMFA Strategic Dialogue, @CGIAR_EMD and @ADjikeng of @ILRI discussed partnerships to deliver tangible impacts for Belgian investment alongside CGIAR’s 2025–30 Research Portfolio. #OneCGIAR
According to Dr. Ismahane, CGIAR Science Week 2025 is a landmark event bringing together the world’s leading scientists, decision-makers, and advocates in agriculture, climate, and health.
“The gathering aims to realise a shared vision of enhancing food production through science and innovation, reducing malnutrition, and protecting biodiversity in land, water, and food systems,” added Dr. Ismahane.
Launch of the 2025-2030 CGIAR Research Portfolio
Y News has established that the key highlight of the event will be the official launch of CGIAR’s 2025-2030 Research Portfolio, a six-year program of work aimed at tackling some of the most pressing agricultural and environmental challenges.
The portfolio is designed to:
- Boost innovation by integrating cutting-edge research from CGIAR’s global network of research centers.
- Enhance climate resilience by developing climate-smart agricultural solutions that protect farmers from extreme weather conditions.
- Improve food security and nutrition through advancements in sustainable crop production and food systems.
- Empower rural farmers with technologies and strategies to increase productivity while reducing environmental impact.
- Strengthen global partnerships by promoting collaboration among governments, research institutions, and the private sector.
The initiative, expected to mobilize between $6 billion and $12 billion, will support research efforts in over 100 countries and engage 3,000 local partners, strongly emphasising Africa’s agricultural transformation.
“Kenya is honoured to host this key event, a platform that will not only unveil groundbreaking scientific innovations but also promote strategic collaborations to drive meaningful and lasting impact,” said Dr. Eliud Kireger, Director General of KALRO.
Let’s speak the science behind the upcoming new Maize variety seeds to be released to Kenyan Maize farmers in 12-18 months KALRO DG,DR. ELIUD KIREGER speaks, watch @kalromkulima @CIMMYT @corteva @andaeg @ManfromKambu @jacky_bish @wangndi @MeshaScience @gatwiri_c @piusmaundu
According to Dr. Kireger, for smallholder farmers across Africa and beyond, science remains the catalyst for unlocking food security, building resilience, and driving economic prosperity.
Why CGIAR Science Week 2025 matters
The event will feature high-level discussions, expert panels, and interactive showcases demonstrating how research and technology are shaping the future of agriculture.
Attendees will engage with leading scientists, policymakers, private sector leaders, and farmer organisations to explore solutions that bridge the gap between scientific research and real-world agricultural practices.
Key focus areas include:
- The role of AI and Big Data in agricultural decision-making
- Innovations in climate-smart crop breeding
- Strategies to support youth and women in agriculture
- Scaling up nature-based solutions for sustainable farming
According to the organisers, CGIAR Science Week 2025 presents a unique opportunity for stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue and forge partnerships that will shape the future of global agriculture.
