WASHINGTON D.C. – The U.S. Department of State, Office of the Special Envoy for Global Food Security, is taking a significant step towards addressing the impact of climate change on agriculture in Africa. As part of the AIM for Climate Summit, a breakout session will be organized to explore the crucial role of climate-resilient seeds and soil health in ensuring the long-term success and sustainability of food systems.
The session will bring together influential leaders from various organizations, including the State Department, African Union, CGIAR Systems, Columbia Climate School, Pivot Bio, and Bayer. These experts are actively engaged in adapting agricultural practices in Africa, both above and below the ground, through investments in plant breeding for nutritious crops and enhancements in soil health.
Distinguished speakers for the program include Dr. Cary Fowler, the Special Envoy for Global Food Security; Professor Lindiwe Majele Sibanda, CGIAR System Board Chair; Ambassador Josefa Leonel Correia Sacko, Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment of the African Union; Dr. Cynthia Rosenzweig, Senior Research Scientist at the NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies and Columbia University Climate School; Lisa Safarian, President and Chief Operating Officer of Pivot Bio; and Dr. Robert Reiter, Head of Research and Development in Crop Science at Bayer.
The breakout session builds upon the Vision for Adapted Crops and Soils (VACS) initiative, which is a collaborative effort involving the African Union and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. VACS, as part of the comprehensive U.S. government Feed the Future initiative, aims to support African governments, farmers, agricultural researchers, and civil society organizations in preparing the continent’s food systems for the challenges posed by climate change.
Participants are encouraged to join the breakout session titled “Vision for Adapted Crops and Soils in Africa” at the AIM for Climate Summit on May 9th, starting at 11:00 a.m. It is essential to register in advance to attend this informative and insightful session. For further information and registration details, please visit the AIM for Climate Summit website. Together, through collaborative efforts, we can create a more climate-resilient agricultural landscape in Africa and ensure food security for the future.