Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has emphasized the need for science-driven solutions and multi-stakeholder collaborations to address the critical food security challenges facing the world today. Speaking at the official opening of the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) Science Week 2025 at the United Nations Campus in Nairobi, Mudavadi stressed the importance of taking a collective approach to combat the environmental and food security challenges confronting nations globally.
Mudavadi highlighted that agriculture, which employs over 60% of Africa’s population, is under severe threat due to climate change, extreme weather events, land degradation, soil infertility, food insecurity, malnutrition, and postharvest losses. Other factors contributing to the crisis include limited access to technology, financing, and investment. He noted that the theme for this year’s Science Week, “With Science We Can,” is particularly relevant as the world grapples with these significant challenges. He called for strategic partnerships and science-driven solutions to navigate the crisis and ensure sustainable agricultural practices.
The Prime CS underscored the immense challenges faced by agriculture, ranging from climate change to postharvest losses. However, he conveyed optimism, describing Science Week as a crucial platform for discussing solutions to these challenges. He emphasized that it was a call to action for governments, researchers, the private sector, and development partners to work together in advancing sustainable agriculture and resilient food systems in low- and middle-income countries.
Mudavadi urged participants to approach the week’s discussions with bold ideas, strategic partnerships, and ambitious actions. He encouraged them to focus on making decisions that would contribute to improving food security in Africa and beyond. He also stressed the transformative power of collaboration, suggesting that the outcomes of these discussions could shape the future of food security on a global scale.
Dr. Ismahane Elouafi, the Executive Managing Director of CGIAR, highlighted the gravity of the global food crisis, pointing out that the world is experiencing one of the worst food shortages in history. With 800 million people still hungry and 350 million suffering from starvation, the situation is dire, particularly for children and the most vulnerable populations. Elouafi also noted that the compounded effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, ongoing conflicts, and accelerating climate change have exacerbated the crisis. She emphasized the essential role that science plays in addressing these challenges, framing it as a crucial part of the solution. In addition to technological innovations, she stressed the importance of innovation in policy, finance, institutions, and society, areas in which CGIAR remains focused.
Elouafi also called for increased funding to support CGIAR’s mission and encouraged farmers to engage more actively with scientists. She urged youth to consider agriculture as a career, pointing out that future solutions to global food security may lie in their hands.
Zainab Hawa Bangura, representing the United Nations Office of Nairobi (UNON), remarked on the unique opportunity provided by the event to reflect on the shared commitment to science-driven solutions. She emphasized the critical role that CGIAR plays in advancing food security and fostering sustainable agricultural practices. She also highlighted the importance of building partnerships to combat climate change, enhance food resilience, and empower farmers and communities.
Bangura encouraged participants to take full advantage of the week’s opportunities for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and brainstorming to tackle the numerous challenges ahead. She concluded by stressing that through innovation, research, and groundbreaking technologies, agriculture could play a pivotal role in serving both people and the planet. The event served as a reminder of the crucial role that partnerships and science-driven solutions will play in securing a sustainable agricultural future.
The CGIAR Science Week, organized in collaboration with the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KARLO) and the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), focuses on innovation and partnerships for achieving a food, nutrition, and climate-secure future. It brings together leaders from agricultural research, innovation, and policy to address the pressing issues of food security and climate change.
