1 day Ago By News Ghana
News Ghana, Latest Updates and Breaking News of Ghana, News Ghana, https://newsghana.com.gh/global-initiative-targets-sustainable-food-solutions-for-1-7-million/A new scientific program aims to transform livestock and aquaculture systems in developing nations, addressing the dual challenges of food security and environmental sustainability.
The Sustainable Animal and Aquatic Foods initiative, part of CGIAR’s research portfolio, plans to reach 1.7 million people across 17 countries with innovative solutions by 2030.Small scale producers in Africa and Asia currently supply most animal derived foods in their regions while facing significant obstacles.
Climate change, rising production costs and limited access to technology threaten their livelihoods even as global demand for protein continues growing. The program seeks to bridge this gap through practical innovations ranging from methane reducing livestock feed to climate smart aquaculture techniques.“Current systems cannot meet future demands without fundamental changes,” said Dr.
Rodrigue Yossa, the program’s interim director. “We’re working directly with farmers to implement solutions that increase productivity while reducing environmental harm.” Research shows these food systems account for nearly 15 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, making sustainable transformation urgent.
The initiative focuses on six interconnected areas including animal health improvements, regenerative aquaculture practices and expanded opportunities for women in food production. Digital tools like artificial intelligence will help smallholders access markets and optimize operations. In Kenya, early trials of aquaponics systems have shown promise for reducing costs while maintaining yields.
Funding remains a critical challenge. The program aims to secure $84 million to scale proven technologies, with particular attention to supporting agricultural small and medium enterprises that often struggle to access capital. Partnerships with governments, universities and private sector actors will be essential for lasting impact.
Similar efforts in other regions have demonstrated the potential of science based approaches. In Bangladesh, improved chicken breeds adapted to local conditions helped farmers increase incomes while reducing feed requirements. Such successes suggest systemic change is possible when researchers work closely with food producers.
The coming decade will test whether global food systems can evolve to meet growing demand without exacerbating environmental degradation. Programs like this represent one attempt to square that circle, though their ultimate success will depend on sustained investment and cooperation across sectors. As population pressures mount, finding ways to produce more food with fewer resources may determine whether billions can eat well without exhausting the planet.
News Ghana, Latest Updates and Breaking News of Ghana, News Ghana, https://newsghana.com.gh/global-initiative-targets-sustainable-food-solutions-for-1-7-million/.
