Transforming Agriculture to Secure the Future

Yesterday, the World Food Prize Foundation , the 美国国务院 , the Farm Journal Foundation and the Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research (FFAR) joined forces to host a pivotal dialogue on the future of global food security. This event underscored the collective commitment of these organizations to addressing one of humanity's most pressing challenges: ensuring equitable access to nutritious food for a growing global population.

A highlight of the gathering was the launch of an extraordinary statement endorsed by more than 150 Nobel and World Food Prize Laureates. This call to action outlined transformative priorities in agricultural research and development (R&D), urging policymakers, scientists and industry leaders to unite in tackling the food security crisis through innovation, investment and international collaboration.

A Call to Action

With the endorsement of over 150 Laureates from around the world, a powerful statement emerged advocating for international commitments to agricultural innovation, supported by political will and civil society.?

The appeal was coordinated by Dr. Cary Fowler, joint 2024 World Food Prize Laureate, who is also the outgoing U.S. Special Envoy for Global Food Security.

Dr. Fowler emphasized, “The current trajectory of agriculture cannot meet the demands of 2050. We need to think bigger, invest smarter and embrace innovation in ways we haven’t before. These moonshots aren’t dreams; they are necessities.”

Championing Investment in Agricultural Innovation Congressman Jim Baird and Senator Amy Klobuchar lent their voices to this cause, emphasizing the economic and humanitarian returns of agricultural R&D.

Congressman Baird highlighted the strategic importance of soft diplomacy through agricultural investments, stating, “When we invest in agricultural innovation, we’re not just growing crops—we’re growing stability, resilience and peace around the world.”

Senator Klobuchar reinforced the critical need for bipartisan support, pointing to a $20 return for every dollar invested in agricultural research.

“We must ensure our farmers and researchers have the tools they need to tackle global challenges. This is about saving lives and strengthening economies at home and abroad,” she said.

Panel Highlights

A dynamic panel brought fresh insights into the role of science and technology in addressing food security:

• Dr. Manjit Misra, USDA’s Director of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, spotlighted the transformative potential of AI and digital twin technologies in optimizing agricultural systems. “These tools can revolutionize how we plan, grow and distribute food, enabling unprecedented precision and efficiency,” he shared.
• Dr. Elsa Murano, of Texas A&M University, discussed the importance of strategic investment in local food systems. She stated, “We need to align technological advancements with the realities of smallholder farmers worldwide.”
• Mr. Steve Censky, of the American Soybean Association, stressed the importance of maintaining U.S. leadership in agricultural R&D, calling for stronger investments and science-based policies. “The global challenges we face demand bold solutions and unwavering commitment,” he noted.
• Mr. Bill O'Keefe, of Catholic Relief Services, highlighted the intersection of conflict resolution and agricultural innovation. He emphasized the need for holistic approaches to alleviate crises, stating, “Ending food insecurity requires us to address its root causes, from conflict to climate change.”

Building on Borlaug's Legacy Mashal Husain, Chief Operating Officer of the World Food Prize Foundation, closed the session with reflections on Dr. Norman Borlaug’s enduring vision.

“In the global movement we are building together, I see the same bold spirit and unyielding hope that he inspired in all of us. Let’s honor that legacy—not just with words, but with action,” she said.

Why This Matters The stakes have never been higher. No single method can independently solve the looming crisis. Addressing global food security requires a unified, science-driven approach, integrating the wisdom of the past with the innovations of the future.

Dr. Fowler summarized the sentiment of the meeting perfectly: “The solutions to food insecurity aren’t beyond our reach—they are within our grasp. What we need now is the collective will to act.”

As the world looks to the future, the message is clear: Transformative agricultural R&D is not optional—it is essential.?

Join the conversation TOMORROW, January 16 at 10 a.m. EST for a Digital Dialogue. Let’s work together to honor Borlaug’s vision and build a future where no one goes hungry.

Link: https://bit.ly/3Wg14CX