Global endorsement of CGIAR work: IITA wins Africa Food Prize

Photo: Courtesy Africa Food Prize

The Africa Food Prize has been awarded to the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), a member of the CGIAR System Organization. The institute received the distinguished prize in Kigali, Rwanda, last week for ‘Leadership and Innovation in Finding Solutions to the Continent’s Most Pressing Challenges’.

IITA, based in Ibadan, Nigeria, was recognized for generating solutions on and off the farm that have improved the lives of millions in the face of climate change, a surge of crop pests and disease, and an urgent need for youth employment. This recognition reiterates CGIAR research endeavors to create a better future for the world’s poor.

“IITA stood out to us for its steadfast and inspiring commitment to a research agenda that aligns with both our African traditions as well as the evolving needs of African farmers and consumers for the latest advances food production,” said H E Olusegun Obasanjo, former President of Nigeria, who chaired the prize committee.

Congratulating Dr Nteranya Sanginga, Director General, IITA, for receiving a well-deserved award, Dr Peter Carberry, Director General (Acting), ICRISAT, sought a closer research alignment between the two institutes. He said, “I refer often to IITA being the African center for agricultural research and this prize recognizes the role you and IITA have played in achieving significant outcomes for Africa. IITA is an excellent collaborative partner and is proactive in building research partnerships that draw on the CRP Grain Legumes and Dryland Cereals network.”