The Rwanda Agricultural Board (RAB) and the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) on July 27, announced the second edition of the Science Partnerships for Agriculture Conference (SPAC), aimed to tackle pressing issues affecting agricultural productivity and sustainability in Africa. The conference is intended to strengthen agricultural research, technology innovation, and developing partnerships for food system transition under climate change, soil health, and biodiversity challenges. ALSO READ: Rwanda’s agricultural produce up by 300,000 tonnes According to organizers, SPAC2024 will offer the unparalleled opportunity to engage high- level individuals in African and European agriculture and address emerging issues that significantly impact the African continent. Key highlights Among the key highlights on the agenda is the 3rd Biennial Africa Climate Smart Agriculture Stakeholders Conference (CSA). Under the theme “Optimising CSA for Agroecology Transition, Biodiversity Conservation, and Youth Engagement in African Agriculture,” this session will focus on technology generation and foresight analysis, preparing for the Africa Climate Smart Framework (ACSAF) in COP27 in Egypt, and consulting on the Soil Initiative for Africa (SIA). Besides, the 4th Knowledge Management for Agricultural Development Conference (KM4AgD). This annual event by CAADP-XP4 organisations aims to build capacities, establish knowledge management communities of practice, and accelerate the achievement of CAADP Malabo goals by 2025 and the SDGs by 2030. Further, ‘Scaling and Futures’:Themed “From Innovation to Transformation: Leveraging TAAT to Build Thriving Food Systems in Africa,” the session will discuss strategies for scaling transformative technologies, improving food system productivity and resilience, and engaging with the Africa Foresight community for enhanced learning and development. ALSO READ: Experts mull strategies for transforming Africa’s irrigation systems The conference will feature other sideline events all aimed at strengthening agricultural innovation, science, and discuss the relevant policies that would contribute to transforming the continent's agriculture sector.
