Nairobi, Kenya| The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) has launched an ambitious new strategy aimed at transforming agriculture in Africa’s drought-prone regions through cutting-edge microbial solutions and regenerative farming practices.
The Strategic Plan 2025–2030, titled “Microbial Solutions for Advancing Nature-Positive and Regenerative Agriculture in Drylands,” was unveiled during the CGIAR Science Week 2025 at the United Nations Office in Gigiri, Nairobi.
The initiative seeks to address the escalating challenges faced by smallholder farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa and Asia, where climate change, soil degradation, and erratic rainfall threaten food security and livelihoods.
The Crisis in Africa’s Drylands
Africa’s drylands span 43% of the continent, hosting some of the most vulnerable communities grappling with food insecurity, malnutrition, and environmental degradation.
These regions are further strained by conflict, water scarcity, and diminishing agricultural productivity, pushing millions into poverty.
“Drylands are not only thirsty—they need more water—but they are also hungry. They need more nutrients, more organic carbon,” said Dr. Himanshu Pathak, Director General of ICRISAT, during the launch.
“The problems of drylands are becoming more severe, and we need new science and technology to combat them.”
A Microbial Revolution for Sustainable Farming
At the heart of ICRISAT’s strategy is the use of beneficial microorganisms to restore soil health, enhance crop resilience, and reduce dependency on chemical fertilizers. The approach focuses on:
- Carbon sequestration to improve soil fertility.
- Natural pest control to minimize chemical use.
- Nutrient cycling to boost crop yields sustainably.
“The importance of microbial solutions in revolutionizing agriculture has never been greater,” Dr. Pathak emphasized.
“These innovations will help turn Africa’s drylands into thriving hubs of sustainable agriculture, where farming techniques and community empowerment drive economic growth and food security.”
Climate-Resilient Crops and Digital Agriculture
ICRISAT’s plan also highlights the development of drought-resistant seed varieties that require less water and nutrients while delivering high yields.
Additionally, the strategy leverages digital technology to empower farmers with real-time information on weather patterns, market prices, and best agronomic practices.
“Africa has a mobile phone penetration of over 80%. We can use this to provide farmers with critical data, connect them to markets, and create job opportunities in seed distribution and value addition,” Dr. Pathak noted.
The initiative aims to shift smallholder farmers from subsistence farming to agribusiness, fostering private-sector partnerships to strengthen market linkages.
Strengthening Research and Innovation
Dr. Stanford Blade, ICRISAT’s Deputy Director General for Research and Innovation, underscored the need for robust scientific backing to tackle dryland challenges.
The institute’s germplasm bank, which houses resilient varieties of sorghum, millet, chickpea, pigeon pea, and groundnut, plays a pivotal role in breeding nutrient-rich, pest-resistant crops.
“We’re not just developing crops; we’re building an entire economic ecosystem,” Dr. Blade said.
“From school feeding programs to high-nutrient food processing, our innovations will impact not just farmers but entire communities.”
A Collaborative Path Forward
ICRISAT is working closely with governments, research institutions, and private-sector partners across Africa and within the One CGIAR network to scale these solutions.
The goal is to ensure rapid dissemination of knowledge and technologies to farmers, enabling them to adapt to climate change while improving productivity.
As climate pressures intensify, ICRISAT’s regenerative agriculture strategy offers a science-backed, sustainable blueprint for revitalizing dryland farming—turning barren landscapes into fertile grounds for prosperity.
Key Takeaways:
- Microbial solutions to restore soil health and reduce chemical use.
- Drought-resistant crops for higher yields in water-scarce regions.
- Digital tools to empower farmers with real-time agricultural insights.
- Private-sector partnerships to enhance market access and agribusiness growth.
- Holistic approach integrating research, innovation, and community engagement.
With this bold new strategy, ICRISAT is paving the way for a food-secure, climate-resilient future for millions in Africa’s drylands.
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