Australia launches US$48M climate-responsive agriculture partnership with Africa
AFRICA – The Australian government has committed US$48 million over six years to support agricultural research and capacity development programs in Africa, focusing on climate resilience and food security.
The initiative, led by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), aims to collaborate with smallholder farmers and African institutions to introduce climate-smart solutions and secure food production amid worsening climate challenges.
The Africa-Australia Partnership for Climate Responsive Agriculture (AAPCRA) will prioritize empowering African research institutions through capacity-building programs and engage policymakers in shaping agriculture strategies to address climate-related risks.
The announcement was made by Australia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator Penny Wong, during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa on October 24.
According to Minister Wong, the partnership reflects a commitment to addressing global food insecurity and building resilience against climate change.
“This program will help regions most vulnerable to climate change’s impacts, enhancing food production and community well-being,” she said.
Agriculture is a critical sector in Africa, employing more than half the continent’s workforce and providing sustenance to millions.
However, data from 2023 indicates that 868 million people faced moderate to severe food insecurity globally, with Africa disproportionately affected.
Experts warn the situation will worsen as climate change increasingly disrupts agricultural systems.
The African Union has emphasized the importance of scientific innovation and research collaborations in addressing these challenges.
The AAPCRA initiative aligns with this vision by combining Australian expertise with locally driven approaches to advance sustainable agricultural practices.
Professor Wendy Umberger, ACIAR’s CEO, stated that the collaboration builds on decades of partnerships between ACIAR and 12 countries in Eastern and Southern Africa.
In its first year, the partnership will allocate US$7.5 million toward establishing bilateral research projects and capacity-building efforts.
AAPCRA will engage with research institutions, universities, and private sector stakeholders to deliver solutions that benefit rural communities and broader society across Africa.
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