The Global agricultural research body CGIAR has unveiled a bold new strategy aimed at reshaping the world’s food, land, and water systems in response to escalating hunger, climate change, and inequality.
Launched at the inaugural CGIAR Science Week in Nairobi, the 2025–2030 Research Portfolio marks a sweeping shift toward integrated, science-led solutions designed to support food security, environmental sustainability, and climate resilience—particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
“Today, I proudly introduce the first-ever research portfolio encapsulating all our Centers’ research: eight science programs, one scaling program, and four accelerators,” said Ismahane Elouafi, CGIAR Executive Managing Director.
“But it is more than a set of programs. It is a unified platform designed for impact.”The portfolio reflects CGIAR’s pivot from siloed research efforts toward a more collaborative and targeted approach, built around strategic partnerships and grounded in the real-world challenges facing farmers—especially smallholders in the Global South.
CGIAR, a global research network with more than 10,000 staff in over 80 countries, is anchoring the new portfolio in key international frameworks, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals, the Paris Climate Agreement, and the Global Biodiversity Framework.
From climate change and biodiversity loss to shifting diets and political instability, the portfolio addresses a rapidly evolving agricultural landscape.“Fifty years ago, we turned to science for solutions,” said Sandra Milach, CGIAR Chief Scientist.
“Together with our partners, we saved millions of lives. But the challenges we face today are even more complex. Now, we must develop research that truly addresses this new reality.”
Developed through consultations with governments, national research institutions, and farming communities, the portfolio is rooted in a bottom-up approach.Global “listening sessions” helped CGIAR identify priorities at national, regional, and global levels.
The resulting portfolio includes:Eight Science Programs tackling critical needs from productivity to equity;One Scaling for Impact Program to ensure innovations are adopted widely;Four Accelerators to boost research, innovation, and technology uptake.
These components are designed to work together, delivering scalable, high-impact solutions across the food system.The portfolio aims to accelerate agricultural productivity, strengthen livelihoods, and expand economic opportunities in agrifood systems—particularly for women and marginalized communities.
CGIAR says the strategy will help lift millions out of poverty while advancing sustainable development.
“Building on 50 years of experience and innovation, this next phase is more collaborative, focused, and ambitious than ever,” Elouafi said.
