In an inspiring gathering at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) headquarters in Nairobi, Science Week began with an impassioned call for innovation and strategic partnerships aimed at transforming global food systems. Attended by over 3,000 in-person and more than 2,000 virtual participants, the event brought together key stakeholders from around the world.
The Importance of Collaboration
Opening the event, Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary, Musalia Mudavadi, emphasized the need for a collaborative approach. “Kenya is fully committed to supporting agricultural research and innovation. Transforming the agri-food sector is crucial for driving poverty reduction, job creation, and climate resilience,” Mudavadi stated.
A Call to Action
Mudavadi described the Science Week as a pivotal moment for addressing urgent global crises. The event is a call to action for governments, researchers, private sector players, and development partners to chart new paths for sustainable agriculture, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. According to Africa Science News, this collaboration is vital for ensuring no Kenyan goes to bed hungry.
The Role of Science and Innovation
The theme of Science Week resonated deeply with participants, amidst rising food insecurity and climate change challenges. Mudavadi stressed that “science-driven solutions and multi-stakeholder partnerships” are the keys to overcoming these hurdles.
Empowering Women in Agriculture
Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, Former Prime Minister of Mauritius, spoke poignantly about the need to empower women and girls, who constitute a significant portion of smallholder farmers in Africa. She called for innovations to be developed through a gender lens to promote equity and inclusion.
Navigating Climate Challenges
Discussions about climate change’s impact on global agriculture were central, with panelists highlighting mission-driven collaborations as essential to reaching marginalized farming communities. “We need to do more with less, combining political solutions with scientific solutions,” affirmed Dr. Ibrahim Mayaki, African Union Special Envoy for Food Systems.
A United Front
This year’s Science Week aims to leverage diverse perspectives and cutting-edge research to guide the transformation of food systems. By nurturing innovation and collaboration, the event seeks a sustainable, resilient future for both people and the planet.
