New Technologies, Innovations to Improve Agric in Developing Countries

Policy makers, researchers and representatives from farmer organizations and the private sectors from all over the world gathered in Addis Ababa in Ethiopia to discuss technological, institutional, and organizational innovations that are transforming agriculture and improving people's lives. Organized by the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), the conference “Advancing Agriculture in Developing Countries through Knowledge and Innovation” highlighted success stories, like a farmer-led, market-driven extension system in India that helps farmers diversify into high-value crops and the smallholder farmer’s fruitful adoption of insect resistant cotton in India and China.

Kwadwo Asenso-Okyere, head of IFPRI”s International Service for National Agricultural Research, pointed out that although many developing countries face major barriers to agricultural growth and rural development, successful agricultural innovations are occurring for the benefit of poor smallholders, food-insecure households, and other vulnerable groups. IFPRI Director General Joachim von Braun noted that new initiatives to accelerate agricultural innovation and improve farmers' access to technology and markets are vital for growth and poverty reduction in developing countries.

The press release is available at http://www.ifpri.org/pressrel/2008/20080407.asp