The CGIAR Science Week 2025, co-hosted by the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) and the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR), brought together scientists, government institutions, students, farmers, and members of the public in Nairobi for a powerful week of insight, innovation, and knowledge sharing.
Themed “Innovation and Partnerships for a Food, Nutrition and Climate Secure Future,” the event featured Research Workshops, Innovation Showcases, and Science Talks, creating a dynamic space to share cutting-edge research and practical solutions for food systems under pressure.
Spotlight on RTB Crops: A Pathway to Resilience
One of the week’s standout moments was the field visit to the RTB East Africa Germplasm Exchange Laboratory in Muguga, Nairobi. The visit offered a hands-on look at how roots, tubers, and bananas (RTB) are leveraged to build climate resilience and strengthen food security. As a cornerstone of food systems across many regions in Africa, RTB crops are increasingly recognized as crops for now and for the future.
At a compelling side event titled “Leveraging Science to Enable a Second Green Revolution through RTB Crops,” Dr. Hugo Campos, RTB Project Lead, shared valuable insights into how science can drive meaningful transformation in this space. Dr Hugo highlighted some of the successes of the project since its inception, like the release of new high-yielding varieties resilient to climate change and less susceptible to diseases.
Science and Scaling: From Labs to Livelihoods
The recurring message throughout the week was clear: Research in RTB crops is a pathway to resilience. However, resilience will only be achieved if we move beyond discovery—we must use these technologies to reach small-holder farmers, the backbone of global food production.
Science Week highlighted how stronger collaboration among research centers is not just desirable, it’s necessary. By working together, CGIAR and its partners are better positioned to create sustainable, scalable solutions that can transform food security through science.
The Power of Partnership
Perhaps the most enduring takeaway from the week is the power of partnerships. Across workshops, field visits, and side events, it became evident that investing in agricultural research is an investment in the future—one where science, policy, and community action intersect to create resilient and sustainable food systems.
As the event wrapped up, a call to action echoed across the closing sessions: We must ensure that the partnerships that we have created will impact livelihoods and transform lives.
This isn’t just a vision—it’s a plan in motion.
Looking Ahead
CGIAR Science Week 2025 was more than just a gathering; it was a launchpad for the next chapter in agricultural research and innovation. With stronger networks, shared goals, and an unwavering belief that the journey toward a climate-smart, nutrition-secure future is well underway. Indeed, with science we can.