In a significant move to propel climate research in Africa, the World Bank has earmarked $100 million for the Consortium of International Agricultural Research Centres (CGIAR). The funding, directed through the International Development Association (IDA), is set to bolster the Accelerating Impacts of CGIAR Climate Research for Africa (AICCRA) project in 2024 and 2025.
Martien van Nieuwkoop, the World Bank's agriculture and food global practice director, confirmed this allocation at the twenty-eighth Conference of the Parties (COP28) in Dubai. The contribution underscores a steadfast commitment to advancing climate-resilient agriculture across the region. Facilitated by CGIAR, the world's largest publicly funded agricultural research network, the AICCRA project aims to empower African national and regional partners with scientific and technical expertise. Its overarching objective is to enhance climate information services and validate 'climate-smart' agricultural technologies.
Pledges totalling $890 million were made at COP28 to support CGIAR's new investment case, marking a pivotal moment where the future of agriculture converges with climate discussions. These funds will enable CGIAR to foster more resilient, sustainable, and equitable food systems.
The additional $100 million from the World Bank for AICCRA is poised to build on the project's accomplishments, already set to positively impact nearly five million smallholder farmers and other stakeholders. AICCRA operates in Senegal, Mali, Ghana, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Zambia, with activities extending to various regional organizations in West, East, and Southern Africa.
A notable success story comes from Mali, where 150,000 farmers experienced higher yields and incomes through the adoption of the digital app RiceAdvice. In Zambia, AICCRA is derisking climate-smart agricultural enterprises, reaching 390,000 farmers and securing a remarkable 200% return on the original project funding from private investors.
Juan Lucas Restrepo, CGIAR partnerships director, underscores the goal of expanding access to climate information services and validated climate-smart agricultural technologies across the continent. With innovation deemed critical in the face of climate change, the additional finance will further ensure the meaningful and sustainable use of agricultural innovations by millions of farmers.
Article by RB Correspodent
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