Nairobi is set to host CGIAR Science Week 2025, a landmark event that will bring together top scientists, policymakers, and stakeholders to explore solutions at the intersection of agriculture, climate, and health. The conference, organized by CGIAR and the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), comes at a crucial time when nearly 350 million people globally face extreme hunger, with climate change posing an escalating threat to food security.
Speaking at a press briefing, Dr. Ismahane Elouafi, Executive Managing Director of CGIAR, underscored the need for collaborative action, emphasizing that science and innovation remain the backbone of human progress. “As we navigate global challenges from climate change to food insecurity we need bold, collaborative action. CGIAR Science Week 2025 will unite top scientists, decision-makers, and advocates to enhance food production through science and innovation, reduce malnutrition, and protect biodiversity.”
A major highlight of the event will be the official launch of CGIAR’s 2025-2030 Research Portfolio, a six-year program designed to tackle some of the most pressing agricultural and environmental challenges. With an estimated budget ranging between $6 billion and $12 billion, the initiative will support projects across more than 100 countries, working with 3,000 local partners. The program aims to drive agricultural innovation, strengthen climate resilience, improve food security, and empower smallholder farmers, particularly in Africa.
Dr. Eliud Kireger, Director General of KALRO, expressed Kenya’s honor in hosting this pivotal gathering, noting that it will provide an important platform for showcasing cutting-edge scientific advancements. He emphasized the critical role of research in enhancing food security, building resilience, and fostering economic prosperity, especially for smallholder farmers in Africa.
CGIAR Science Week 2025 will feature high-level discussions, expert panels, and interactive showcases covering a range of key topics. These include the role of artificial intelligence and big data in agricultural decision-making, innovations in climate-smart crop breeding, strategies to support youth and women in agriculture, and scaling up nature-based solutions for sustainable farming.
The event presents a unique opportunity for stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue and forge partnerships that will shape the future of global agriculture. As the world grapples with the twin challenges of climate change and food insecurity, Science Week 2025 will serve as a catalyst for transformative agricultural solutions, driving action toward a more sustainable and resilient food system.
