Strengthening Collaboration: Enhancing RTB Systems for Sustainable Agriculture
This article highlights the significance of collaboration and networking in strengthening RTB systems for sustainable agriculture. It discusses the outcomes of the CGIAR-NARS Network meeting held at the IITA headquarters, emphasizing the importance of partnerships and coordinated efforts in advancing agricultural research and development in Africa.
CGIAR-NARS Network Meeting Emphasizes Partnerships and Networking
Representatives from national agricultural research systems (NARS) in Benin, Burundi, DR Congo, Ethiopia, Ghana, Mozambique, Nigeria, Tanzania, and Uganda are convening today at the IITA headquarters in Ibadan for a Roots, Tubers, and Bananas (RTB) Breeding – CGIAR – NARS Network meeting. This gathering, which includes scientists from the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) and the International Potato Center (CIP), aims to establish RTB crop and regional breeding networks, as well as to define PDT composition and preliminary alignment among participating countries.
During the meeting’s opening session, Dr. Simeon Ehui, the Director General of IITA and CGIAR Regional Director for Continental Africa, emphasized the critical role of partnerships and networking in realizing the vision of #OneCGIAR for a food-secure continent and improving the livelihoods of millions. He underscored IITA and CGIAR’s commitment to expanding networks and increasing the reach of their initiatives across Africa.
Dr. Simon Heck, the Director General of the International Potato Center (CIP), echoed Dr. Ehui’s sentiments, highlighting the importance of strengthening coordination among countries and effectively managing and governing scientific endeavors with a focus on equitable partnerships.
This meeting serves as a platform for fostering collaboration, sharing expertise, and aligning efforts to enhance the resilience and productivity of root, tuber, and banana crops in Africa. By fostering strategic partnerships and promoting knowledge exchange, stakeholders aim to address key challenges in agricultural development and contribute to the achievement of sustainable food systems.
