DeSIRA Initiative (The Development of Smart Innovation through Research in Agriculture) is a collective body funded by the European Commission (EC) formed to contribute to climate-relevant, productive and sustainable transformation of agriculture and food systems in low and middle-incomes countries.
The DeSIRA initiative was launched on the 8th of September in a virtual event whose main objective was to discuss the role of agricultural research and innovation for development to address food systems transition and the contribution of the DeSIRA initiative.
Introducing the event, Carla Montesi, Director for Planet and Prosperity Directorate-General for International Cooperation and Development, said that the DeSIRA Inititative is more important than ever because the success of each implemented project will define the way forward for future projects.
Also speaking during the event, Elizabeth Nsimadala, President of Pan Africa Farmers Organization (PAFO) reiterated the importance of producer organisations as the linkage between research and farmers. “There is a need to transform the research approach both in terms of response to farmers and in regards to funding.”
For presentations on some of the DeSIRA projects launching events, click HERE.
The DeSIRA strategic approach aims to support the transformation of agricultural and food systems and is being designed through key consultations with various stakeholders.
The Executive Committee of GFAR expresses thanks to the European Commission for core funding received through the DeSIRA Initiative, supported from resources of the Global Public Good And Challenges Thematic Programme, for implementation of GFAR Collective Actions to transform agri-food research and innovation for development action.
Visit the new DeSIRA website hosted by Capacity4dev HERE.