The Bold Transformation - An Inspiring Goal
In a visionary surge led by the Sustainable Animal and Aquatic Foods (SAAF) Science Program, part of the expansive CGIAR 2025–2030 research portfolio, the landscapes of global food security and climate resilience are set for metamorphosis. Dr. Rodrigue Yossa, the interim director, steered conversations in a high-level meeting during the prestigious CGIAR Science Week. His call was resonant and clear: to pivot away from stagnating methods as the demand for animal-source foods braces for a 30% hike by 2050, driven predominantly by low and middle-income countries.
Facing the Grand Challenge of 2050
With a burgeoning population edging towards 10 billion by mid-century, ensuring equitable access to nutritious diets emerges as a universal challenge. Small-scale producers, stalwarts of approximately 70% of livestock products in Africa and Asia, crucially hold the key. Yet, they grapple under rising input costs, outdated policies, and technology deficits. The stakes soar when you factor in that livestock production and unsustainable fishing practices foster 14.5% of the planet’s greenhouse emissions, alongside threats to biodiversity.
The Thrilling Blueprint: SAAF in Motion
The transformative thrust of SAAF has encapsulated 17 countries, including Kenya, Ethiopia, and Bangladesh, aiming stratospherically towards not only reaching over 1.7 million people but reinvigorating aquaculture and livestock systems. Envisioned strategies like methane-reducing forages and seaweed farms align with unlocking approximately $84 million in funding, marking a promising future.
A Six-Pronged Approach for Systemic Change
This ambitious program navigates its transformative quest through six strategic dimensions that embody regenerative, inclusive, and wholesome food system paradigms. From deploying genetic advancements and cultivating regenerative aquaculture, to drawing women and youth into value chains, the focus is vivid and inclusive. Digital innovations like AI and blockchain burst forth as pivotal tools to steer smallholders towards more resilient and modern-day practices.
Invigorating the Blue Economy
Lucy Obungu, Kenya’s Fisheries Director, underscores, “Through aquaponics and gender-specific tools, SAAF rejuvenates Kenya’s blue economy.” Synergistic partnerships anchor the venture; bridging government, academia, and the private sphere into a collaborative ecosystem that champions local capacities while accentuating innovative hubs and SME support.
Farmers’ Fortitude - Grounding The Vision
In line with CGIAR’s 2030 doctrine, the SAAF program heralds the era of transformational, low-emission food systems. Farmers like Oliver Mukunza in Kakamega voice their gratitude for practical technology that materially supports their livelihoods. These grassroots victories reinforce that SAAF is more than a program—it’s a catalyst for systemic evolution.
“SAAF unites research, policy, and enterprise, fostering a nourishing global table,” concluded Ishmahane Elouafi, CGIAR Executive Managing Director, setting a resolute beacon for the future.
According to Africa Science News, this initiative stands as a pillar in the campaign for a nutrition-rich, sustainable planet.
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