Partnering with FAO to transform agrifood systems

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) have signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation on genetic engineering and biotechnological solutions in support of transforming agrifood systems.

The signing ceremony was held as a side event at the FAO Global Agrifood Biotechnologies Conference “Biotechnologies for a Sustainable Future: Driving Agrifood Systems Transformation.”

The agreement underscores the Organizations’ communal commitment to fostering innovation, addressing pressing global challenges such as food security and environmental sustainability, and supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

The collaboration between FAO and ICGEB builds on a shared mission to advance the development and application of genetic engineering and biotechnology in agriculture, with a focus on innovative areas such as bioinoculants, microbiomes, biofertilizers, biopesticides, and biosafety. By combining FAO’s global reach and strategic frameworks with ICGEB’s scientific excellence and advanced research capabilities in the field, the partnership aims to accelerate the uptake of cutting-edge technologies and promote sustainable practices across agrifood systems worldwide.

The MoU will emphasize technical collaboration and capacity development in key biotechnological fields. Activities will range from the development of knowledge products and policy briefs to organising joint workshops and technical support missions. Special attention will be given to empowering countries to apply genomics, bioinformatics, and genome editing to improve crop and livestock performance, enhance nutrient use efficiency, and bolster resilience to biotic and abiotic stresses.

The collaboration will also explore policy and regulatory aspects of biotechnology and contribute to science-policy dialogue through joint participation in global forums and advocacy events.

Through this partnership, FAO and ICGEB will jointly support at least two countries in applying biotechnologies to improve agrifood systems. They will also produce policy briefs on high-priority topics and host events to promote biotechnologies relevant to smallholder agriculture. Capacity development activities will be designed to strengthen the technical skills of FAO Member countries and support the responsible use of biotechnology in alignment with the bioeconomy.

Dr. Lawrence Banks, ICGEB Director-General states: “Climate change and the inevitable impacts on food security represent one of the major challenges facing humanity, with populations in the Global South being particularly vulnerable. The partnership with FAO therefore, offers a unique opportunity to meet these challenges and ensure the creation of sustainable and resilient nutritional resources for some of the poorest parts of the world. Biotechnology offers amazing capabilities for enhancing global nutrition, and at a pace that far outstrips traditional agricultural practices. Tackling drought, disease, enhancing crop nutrition ,and crop yields are all within reach through the use of modern Agricultural Biotechnology. Combining the expertise of FAO and ICGEB will ensure that such developments can be attained and owned by populations in all parts of the world, thereby ensuring that no one is left behind.

“This partnership with ICGEB reflects our shared commitment to advancing science and innovation in support of sustainable agrifood systems. By combining FAO’s global mandate with ICGEB’s cutting-edge research and technical expertise, we can support countries harness the potential of biotechnologies to address critical challenges in food security, climate resilience, and sustainable development. This collaboration supports the implementation of the FAO Strategic Framework 2022–31, promoting innovation for better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life, leaving no one behind,” said Beth Crawford, FAO Chief Scientist (ad interim).

FAO and ICGEB are committed to deepening collaboration, strengthening technical capacities, and promoting innovation for sustainable development. This partnership exemplifies how science-driven alliances can help overcome complex challenges in agriculture, food security, and environmental health.

The partnership stands to leverage biotechnological innovations and shared expertise to address critical challenges in food security, environmental health, and sustainable development.