African and European researchers in sustainable agriculture meet in Accra

African and European organizations focused on research and innovation in sustainable agriculture, along with various stakeholders, have convened in Accra to discuss strategies for expanding innovations in agricultural and food systems. The Development-Smart Innovation through Research in Agriculture (DeSIRA) CONNECT Days, running from September 24 to September 26, 2024, is a three-day event focused on agricultural innovation in Western Africa, Central Africa, and Madagascar. It is being organized by the European Commission under the DeSIRALIFT initiative and the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA). A news brief shared with the Ghana News Agency said indicated that the goal of the event was to share lessons and outcomes from DeSIRA projects and discuss strategies for scaling up innovations within the agricultural sector. It said participants would have the opportunity to engage in a series of activities to present their projects, jointly reflect on key topics, including participatory innovati on with civil society and the private sector, and mechanisms for responsible innovation. Participants would also discuss the role of research in agricultural innovation, education, knowledge, and job creations as well as in policy making. 'It will provide participants with insights on innovation mechanisms and scenarios for a climate resilient agriculture - healthy for the planet and the people - to build a long-lasting impact on food security, poverty alleviation, and socio-economic and gender-balanced inclusion while protecting biodiversity and ecosystems. 'The DeSIRA Connect Days will feed the broader agenda of EU-Africa and other international initiatives, policies and strategies in support of sustainable agriculture and food systems.' it added. The DeSIRA Initiative aims to promote innovation in agricultural and food systems to support sustainable transitions and improve resilience to climate change in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Through participatory research and multi-stakeholder engagement, DeSIRA projects drive innovation to enhance food security, nutrition, and livelihoods. Source: Ghana News Agency