By Lenah Bosibori
The Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR)’s inaugural Science Week wrapped up in Nairobi with a resounding call for stronger investments in science and innovation to transform global food systems.
Speaking during the closing ceremony Ismahane Elouafi, Executive Managing Director of CGIAR said that the week-long event explored groundbreaking research, forged new partnerships and reaffirmed its commitments for a more sustainable food system.
“Over the past few days, we have explored groundbreaking research, forged new partnerships, and reaffirmed our commitment to sustainable, resilient, and equitable food systems,” said Elouafi. “The dialogues and connections fostered here will undoubtedly propel our shared mission forward.”
Co-hosted by KALRO, CGIAR’s Science Week showcased the transformative power of science when paired with strategic collaboration. The event brought together policymakers, scientists, innovators, and farmers to exchange ideas and scale up solutions capable of revolutionizing agri-food systems globally.
In his closing remarks, Eliud Kireger, Director General of the Kenya Agricultural & Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) said that the science week highlighted dynamic discussions and showcased cutting-edge technologies.
“Through dynamic discussions and the showcasing of pioneering innovations, this week highlighted both our achievements and the gaps we must address,” said Kireger. “This is just the beginning.”
From interactive debates to the presentation of cutting-edge technologies, Science Week emphasized not only what has been achieved but what still needs to be done.
However, despite the successes, a consistent concern throughout the week was the shrinking funding for agricultural research. Numerous studies, including those by CGIAR, show that every $1 invested yields $10 in benefits.
“Investing in CGIAR centers is not just good for the planet, it makes strong economic sense,” said Juergen Voegele, Vice President for Sustainable Development at the World Bank. “It’s one of the smartest investments we can make in our collective future.”
With one-third of the world’s population still food insecure, experts emphasized that science must be at the heart of delivering urgent, scalable solutions. The CGIAR Investment Case outlines a need for $4 billion between 2025–2027 to unleash the potential of agricultural science to combat climate change, increase food production, and transform food, land, and water systems.
“Strategic gatherings like Science Week chart pathways toward more sustainable and resilient food systems,” said H.E. Amina J. Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations. “With the right investment, agriculture can be humanity’s greatest solution to our most pressing global challenges.”
As Science Week closed, the call was clear: collaboration, innovation, and investment must continue beyond the event. With the momentum built, CGIAR and its partners aim to turn insights into impact strengthening systems and delivering benefits to communities worldwide.
“Science guided by purpose, and delivered through strong partnerships, has the power to transform,” Elouafi concluded.