Press and News Strengthening Agricultural Research: The Alliance and CCARDESA Sign an MoU

Strengthening Agricultural Research - The Alliance and CCARDESA Sign MoU

The Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT and CCARDESA signed an MoU on October 10, 2024, in a virtual ceremony, marking a strategic partnership to enhance agricultural research and sustainable development in Southern Africa.

On October 10, 2024, the Alliance officially entered a strategic partnership with the Centre for Coordination of Agricultural Research and Development for Southern Africa (CCARDESA) through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The virtual event, attended by key stakeholders from both organizations, marked a critical step toward advancing agricultural research and development across southern Africa. 

Moderated by Liz Ogutu, Policy and Climate Action Lead for Eastern and southern Africa at the Alliance, the ceremony provided a platform for both organizations to outline the goals of their collaboration. The MoU is aimed at harnessing the complementary strengths of the Alliance and CCARDESA, focusing on institutional development, capacity building, and creating impactful pathways for agricultural sustainability. 

Remarks from Leadership 

During the event, Prof. Cliff Sibusiso Dlamini, Executive Director of CCARDESA, and Juan Lucas Restrepo, Director General of the Alliance, delivered opening remarks highlighting the significance of the partnership. Both leaders emphasized how their collaboration would accelerate progress in addressing key challenges facing agriculture in southern Africa, particularly in increasing climate resilience, capacity development, and sustainable agricultural practices. 

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Juan Lucas Restrepo

Director General of the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, Trustee for Bioversity International UK/USA

“The signing of this MoU underscores our shared commitment to driving innovative solutions for agricultural development,” said Juan Lucas Restrepo. “Together, we will combine our research expertise and regional networks to achieve meaningful impact.” 

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Prof. Dlamini echoed these sentiments, adding that this partnership would further CCARDESA's mission to strengthen the region's agricultural systems through cutting-edge research and collaboration. 

A Symbolic Moment 

The live signing of the MoU, which included a symbolic display of the signed documents, was a powerful moment that solidified the commitment of both organizations to work together toward shared goals.

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In his closing remarks, Dr Majola Mabuza - Regional Coordinator of CCARDESA - summarized the event’s key points, expressing gratitude to all participants and looking ahead to the work to be done:

“This MoU marks the beginning of a fruitful collaboration, and we are excited about the positive impact it will have on the agricultural sector. We look forward to the follow-up activities and further engagement to realize our shared goals.” 

Next Steps 

This partnership lays the groundwork for several joint initiatives, with a focus on addressing the most pressing agricultural challenges in the region. Both organizations are now setting their sights on future collaborations that will explore sustainable agricultural practices, innovative technologies, and capacity-building efforts aimed at improving livelihoods across southern Africa. 

Stay tuned for further updates on this exciting partnership and the impact it will have on agricultural development in the region.