This document discusses equitable partnerships for agricultural foresights and input from organizations like farmers and NGOs. It argues that including diverse voices, like smallholder farmers, in foresights can help avoid mistakes and find new solutions. While including more stakeholders might seem complex, diversity actually enhances foresights. It also notes that listening to even one farmer can provide valuable insights due to the millions of weak signals they experience. Cooperatives and organizations already represent many smallholder voices that could help shape more equitable agricultural futures.
The document discusses equitable partnerships for agricultural research and development. It argues that truly inclusive partnerships are important to end hunger and promote sustainable agriculture. While inclusion can seem complex or expensive, the key is willingness to listen to diverse voices like smallholder farmers. Partnerships will be most effective when they respect local knowledge and ensure diverse groups help shape the research agenda.
This document discusses achieving the UN Millennium Development Goals of reducing extreme poverty and hunger by 2015. It notes that some progress has been made, including: 1) 30% of sub-Saharan Africa's population is no longer suffering from extreme poverty/hunger; 2) Nepal reduced those in poverty by 11% in under a decade; and 3) Ghana increased food production by 40% and reduced hunger by 9% from 2003-2005. However, it emphasizes that more still needs to be done, such as increasing wages and food production through efforts by governments, UN agencies, NGOs and individuals. Quotes provided emphasize transforming lives and empowering the poor through opportunities like microloans rather than handouts.
The document discusses achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) of reducing extreme poverty and hunger by 2015. It notes that some progress has been made, with 30% of sub-Saharan Africa's population no longer suffering from extreme poverty or food insecurity. However, it also discusses challenges, such as high rice prices in Africa making it unaffordable for the poor. The document outlines how the MDGs aim to reduce poverty and hunger by increasing employment and incomes, and providing immediate assistance to vulnerable families. It emphasizes the need for actions from governments, organizations, and individuals to achieve these important goals by the 2015 deadline.
1) The document discusses the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) aimed at reducing extreme poverty, hunger, and child mortality rates by 2015.
2) Some progress has been made, with 30% of sub-Saharan Africa's population no longer suffering from extreme poverty and food insecurity. However, more work remains to be done to achieve the MDGs.
3) The goals are important because over 850 million people still suffer from hunger worldwide and 10 million children die from hunger each year. Achieving the MDGs could give more people opportunities to develop their countries.
This article discusses the concept of "food sovereignty", which is defined as people's right to decide what they eat and produce. The idea arose in the 1990s as small farmers and peasants advocated for policies supporting sustainable small-scale agriculture rather than the globalization of agribusiness. While some experts and governments began discussing the idea, thousands of farmers continued practicing food sovereignty through local production and consumers supporting local markets. In 2007, an international small farmers organization held a forum in Mali to better define the vision of food sovereignty.
This document discusses the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) related to reducing extreme poverty and hunger by 2015. It provides background on the goals, including reducing the proportion of people living on less than $1 per day and reducing hunger. Progress made includes a 30% reduction in extreme poverty in sub-Saharan Africa and an 11% drop in poverty levels in Nepal. However, over 850 million people still suffer from hunger. To achieve the goals, the document recommends providing productive employment, immediate help to vulnerable families, and coordinated action by governments, UN agencies, NGOs and individuals.
The document discusses the linear "story of stuff" system of extraction, production, distribution, consumption and disposal that is causing environmental degradation. It leads to social inequities as powerful entities exploit resources and communities for profit. Different views on environmentalism are examined, but the root cause is identified as the wasteful and polluting nature of capitalist production solely for profit, which destroys the environment and leads to crisis.
The document discusses achieving the UN Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) of reducing extreme poverty and hunger by 2015. It notes some progress made, like 30% of Sub-Saharan Africa no longer suffering extreme poverty or food insecurity. However, it argues more needs to be done as over 850 million people still face hunger worldwide and millions of children die from lack of food each year. It proposes achieving the MDGs through providing productive employment, immediate help for vulnerable families, and coordinated action from governments, agencies, organizations and individuals.
The document discusses equitable partnerships for agricultural research and development. It argues that truly inclusive partnerships are important to end hunger and promote sustainable agriculture. While inclusion can seem complex or expensive, the key is willingness to listen to diverse voices like smallholder farmers. Partnerships will be most effective when they respect local knowledge and ensure diverse groups help shape the research agenda.
This document discusses achieving the UN Millennium Development Goals of reducing extreme poverty and hunger by 2015. It notes that some progress has been made, including: 1) 30% of sub-Saharan Africa's population is no longer suffering from extreme poverty/hunger; 2) Nepal reduced those in poverty by 11% in under a decade; and 3) Ghana increased food production by 40% and reduced hunger by 9% from 2003-2005. However, it emphasizes that more still needs to be done, such as increasing wages and food production through efforts by governments, UN agencies, NGOs and individuals. Quotes provided emphasize transforming lives and empowering the poor through opportunities like microloans rather than handouts.
The document discusses achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) of reducing extreme poverty and hunger by 2015. It notes that some progress has been made, with 30% of sub-Saharan Africa's population no longer suffering from extreme poverty or food insecurity. However, it also discusses challenges, such as high rice prices in Africa making it unaffordable for the poor. The document outlines how the MDGs aim to reduce poverty and hunger by increasing employment and incomes, and providing immediate assistance to vulnerable families. It emphasizes the need for actions from governments, organizations, and individuals to achieve these important goals by the 2015 deadline.
1) The document discusses the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) aimed at reducing extreme poverty, hunger, and child mortality rates by 2015.
2) Some progress has been made, with 30% of sub-Saharan Africa's population no longer suffering from extreme poverty and food insecurity. However, more work remains to be done to achieve the MDGs.
3) The goals are important because over 850 million people still suffer from hunger worldwide and 10 million children die from hunger each year. Achieving the MDGs could give more people opportunities to develop their countries.
This article discusses the concept of "food sovereignty", which is defined as people's right to decide what they eat and produce. The idea arose in the 1990s as small farmers and peasants advocated for policies supporting sustainable small-scale agriculture rather than the globalization of agribusiness. While some experts and governments began discussing the idea, thousands of farmers continued practicing food sovereignty through local production and consumers supporting local markets. In 2007, an international small farmers organization held a forum in Mali to better define the vision of food sovereignty.
This document discusses the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) related to reducing extreme poverty and hunger by 2015. It provides background on the goals, including reducing the proportion of people living on less than $1 per day and reducing hunger. Progress made includes a 30% reduction in extreme poverty in sub-Saharan Africa and an 11% drop in poverty levels in Nepal. However, over 850 million people still suffer from hunger. To achieve the goals, the document recommends providing productive employment, immediate help to vulnerable families, and coordinated action by governments, UN agencies, NGOs and individuals.
The document discusses the linear "story of stuff" system of extraction, production, distribution, consumption and disposal that is causing environmental degradation. It leads to social inequities as powerful entities exploit resources and communities for profit. Different views on environmentalism are examined, but the root cause is identified as the wasteful and polluting nature of capitalist production solely for profit, which destroys the environment and leads to crisis.
The document discusses achieving the UN Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) of reducing extreme poverty and hunger by 2015. It notes some progress made, like 30% of Sub-Saharan Africa no longer suffering extreme poverty or food insecurity. However, it argues more needs to be done as over 850 million people still face hunger worldwide and millions of children die from lack of food each year. It proposes achieving the MDGs through providing productive employment, immediate help for vulnerable families, and coordinated action from governments, agencies, organizations and individuals.
1) The document discusses whether the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) of reducing extreme poverty and hunger by 2015 can be achieved.
2) Some progress has already been made, with the proportion of people in sub-Saharan Africa living in extreme poverty and food insecurity dropping by 30%, and rice production in the region increasing by nearly 50% between 1980 and 2005. Poverty levels in Nepal have also dropped 11% in less than a decade.
3) However, there is still much work to be done to achieve the MDGs by 2015. Productive employment opportunities need to be increased and immediate assistance provided to vulnerable families. Governments, aid organizations, and individuals must all take action to
The document discusses achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) of reducing extreme poverty and hunger by 2015. It notes that some progress has already been made, such as 30% of sub-Saharan Africa's population no longer suffering from extreme poverty and food insecurity, and Nepal reducing those below the poverty line by 11% in less than a decade. However, it argues more still needs to be done, such as providing employment and immediate help to poor families, in order to fully achieve the MDG goals by the 2015 deadline. It highlights the importance of governments, organizations, and individuals taking action to help the over 850 million people still suffering from hunger worldwide.
The document summarizes three initiatives that address development challenges through South-South cooperation:
1) A project in Haiti that cleaned streets, removed garbage, and created jobs, reducing gang violence and poverty. Over 400 workers were hired and the project improved living conditions.
2) The success story of Olam International, which grew from a Nigerian cashew exporter to a global agribusiness supplying major brands. It guarantees product quality from farm to factory while supporting farmers.
3) Projects using ICT - a Ghanaian mobile marketplace improves food farming/selling, and an Indian initiative addresses rural development by engaging the diaspora. They aim to reduce food waste and unlock human potential through technology.
The document discusses the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) related to reducing extreme poverty and hunger by 2015. It provides details on the goals, including reducing the proportion of people living on less than $1 per day and reducing hunger. Progress that has been made is outlined, including a 30% reduction in extreme poverty in Sub-Saharan Africa. However, it notes rice remains unaffordable for many poor. It discusses the importance of the goals to reduce child mortality and give people the chance to improve their lives and countries. The document advocates for productive employment, government assistance to families, and coordinated action from governments, agencies and individuals to achieve the goals.
The document proposes a year-long global initiative to end world hunger. It would use mass communication and technology to bring stakeholders from around the world together to discuss solutions. Representatives from governments, non-profits, corporations, and the general public would propose and debate strategies. Researchers would analyze the discussions to develop workable plans. The public could influence the talks and later donate to fund the implemented solutions. The goal is to find an accountable and transparent way to solve the political issues behind hunger within one year and help nourish people into becoming productive global citizens.
This presentation was given at The International Union for Land Value Taxation (theIU.org) conference on 25th July 2013 at The School of Economic Science in London. The theme of the day was 'Sharing the Commons', hosted as part of a 5-day conference under the heading: 'Economics for Conscious Evolution: A Geo-Justice Conference'. See here for a link to the video footage: http://www.stwr.org/economic-sharing-alternatives/sharing-the-commons-wealth-power-and-natural-resources.html
Well being, biodiversity, post-2015 agenda, by Ashish KothariAshish Kothari
Well-being practices and world views from around the world are showing transformational alternatives to conventional 'development' and political governance models, as they are based on ecological sustainability, equity, and cultural diversity; these need to influence the post-2015 Sustainable Development Agenda which otherwise remains within today's unsustainable 'growth' paradigm.
Feeding Tomorrows Cities 2.0 - December 2018Wouter de Heij
This document provides an overview of trends challenging the agrofood system and the role of the Netherlands in addressing these challenges through its history of cooperation. Key points:
- Population growth, urbanization, and climate change are putting pressure on global food systems and cities. New approaches to agricultural development and urban agriculture are needed.
- The Netherlands has a history of intensive, efficient agriculture due to its small size and location in a fertile river delta. Cooperation between different sectors led to added value in exports of meat, dairy, vegetables, flowers, and agricultural equipment.
- The Netherlands turns geographical disadvantages into agricultural success through cooperation between producers, knowledge institutions, and government. New partnerships aim to make food systems more sustainable
Charles dushek says the agriculture is important…especially in inner city loc...Charles Dushek
Charles Dushek on: Why is agriculture important? The concept of 'food security' is fundamentally important, and for that reason, agriculture is important. The task of feeding its people has been perhaps the first priority of its rulers throughout history. As such, agriculture is considered to be the very basis of political and social stability of a nation since times immemorial.
The document discusses the problems with profit-motive and the need for a more sustainable economic system. It summarizes the views of The Zeitgeist Movement which advocates eliminating the monetary system and profit motive in favor of a resource-based economy. The movement proposes addressing issues like cyclical consumption, infinite growth, and planned obsolescence through automation, resource sharing, and applying science to governance without money or markets. It encourages practical actions like cooperative ventures and consuming consciously while spreading awareness through regional chapters.
The document discusses issues with the American food system, describing it as a "broken food machine." Over 50 million Americans experience hunger or live in "food deserts" without adequate access to nutritious, affordable food. While hunger is often portrayed as an issue only in developing countries, the reality is that many Americans struggle with hunger as well. The food system prioritizes profit over health and sustainability, with large agricultural corporations controlling production and distribution. This leads to environmental damage, inhumane treatment of animals, unhealthy food options, and the persistence of hunger even as plenty of food is produced worldwide. The document argues that a major problem is widespread ignorance and indifference about how the current system operates.
This document discusses the conflict between sustainability and profit motive. It argues that profit motive is inherently unsustainable as it relies on exploitation and perpetuates disparity. Nature achieves balance through interdependence, not profit. However, human society operates on profit motive through our monetary system. This centralizes power, causes issues like pollution, poverty and war. A resource-based economy without money or private property is proposed as an alternative system for a truly sustainable society.
Environment, Human Rights and Alternatives to Development Ashish Kothari
Presentation to faculty of Ladakh University, Leh campus, 29.3.2022. The clash between mainstream 'development' and environment/livelihoods/culture, and radical alternative practices and worldview that promote equality, justice, and sustainability. Special focus on Ladakh's situation.
PCI Media produces entertainment programs to promote social change worldwide. Their 2017 annual report outlines several programs addressing issues like biodiversity, climate change, marine protection, renewable energy, and more. Their program Wild for Life combats wildlife trafficking through social media and partnerships with UN Goodwill Ambassadors. They have various health programs in countries like Syria, East Timor, Burundi addressing issues such as breastfeeding, maternal and child health. Their radio drama Ouro Negro in Mozambique promotes maternal and child health messages to over 1.5 million listeners. In Bolivia, their program La Caldera uses a radio drama and school curriculum to educate youth on human trafficking and exploitation, reaching over 6,000 students and community members.
Feeding People In Hard Times: What Does Permaculture Have To OfferFayme4q
This document discusses the growing food crisis facing many populations in the US and globally. It notes that 35 million people in the US rely on food aid and that food prices rose significantly in 2007. The author argues that permaculture offers solutions through decentralized local food production that empowers communities and increases food security. Permaculture aims to create sustainable human habitats through working with nature to build productive ecosystems that meet human needs.
P2.3. Improving adaptation to climate change for sustainable development in t...GCARD Conferences
This document discusses improving adaptation to climate change in Uruguay's agricultural sector. It notes the uncertainties in climate change projections and argues for a climate risk management approach focused on adapting to current climate variability. Uruguay's National Agricultural Information System provides climate information and decision support tools to help farmers and policymakers adapt flexibly to a range of possible future climate conditions. The system assists with crop forecasts, technology assessments, and sustainability evaluations. It represents a partnership between international organizations and Uruguay's national institutes to respond to stakeholders' needs.
Oscar Wilde was born in a house on Merrion Street in Dublin, where he lived from 1855 to 1878. The house now displays artifacts related to Wilde's life and work, such as editions of his poems "The Happy Prince" and "The Ballad of Reading Gaol." The Dublin Writers' Museum also honors Wilde with exhibits such as a bust and playbill from his play "Lady Windermere's Fan."
Five necessary policy changes to help achieve improved nutrition and sustaina...GCARD Conferences
AVRDC - The World Vegetable Center promotes increased vegetable production and consumption to alleviate poverty and malnutrition. The document outlines 5 policy changes needed: 1) Move beyond staple crops to promote nutrition. 2) Increase long-term funding for horticultural research. 3) Strengthen market opportunities for smallholder farmers through vegetable value chains. 4) Renew policies to ensure judicious and safe pesticide use through integrated pest management. 5) Reassess public sector policies to provide improved vegetable varieties and ensure food quality and safety standards.
This document summarizes the Empowering Smallholder Farmers in Markets (ESFIM) program, which provides research support to national farmers' organizations (NFOs) to strengthen their advocacy capacities. The program is a collaboration between NFOs in 10 countries and 3 European research institutions. It focuses on farmer-driven research to inform NFO advocacy agendas on issues like market access. Key lessons include the need for a flexible model that balances quality research with advocacy needs, and separate funding lines for research and advocacy. Going forward, dedicated research support funds for NFOs, as well as funds for
P2.3. Research partnerships on climate change mitigation through REDD+ and th...GCARD Conferences
This document summarizes a presentation on a research partnership in Mozambique studying climate change mitigation through REDD+ and its interactions with agriculture. The partnership includes CIFOR, Eduardo Mondlane University, Centro Terra Viva, and other institutions. It aims to present early results and influence policy development in Mozambique. Deforestation rates in Mozambique are high, largely due to agriculture, wood energy, and unsustainable logging. Early results identified the main drivers of deforestation and show that agriculture expansion, population growth, and weak governance are underling challenges for REDD+ in Mozambique. The results are beginning to influence national REDD+ strategy, reference levels, policies, and
1) The document discusses whether the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) of reducing extreme poverty and hunger by 2015 can be achieved.
2) Some progress has already been made, with the proportion of people in sub-Saharan Africa living in extreme poverty and food insecurity dropping by 30%, and rice production in the region increasing by nearly 50% between 1980 and 2005. Poverty levels in Nepal have also dropped 11% in less than a decade.
3) However, there is still much work to be done to achieve the MDGs by 2015. Productive employment opportunities need to be increased and immediate assistance provided to vulnerable families. Governments, aid organizations, and individuals must all take action to
The document discusses achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) of reducing extreme poverty and hunger by 2015. It notes that some progress has already been made, such as 30% of sub-Saharan Africa's population no longer suffering from extreme poverty and food insecurity, and Nepal reducing those below the poverty line by 11% in less than a decade. However, it argues more still needs to be done, such as providing employment and immediate help to poor families, in order to fully achieve the MDG goals by the 2015 deadline. It highlights the importance of governments, organizations, and individuals taking action to help the over 850 million people still suffering from hunger worldwide.
The document summarizes three initiatives that address development challenges through South-South cooperation:
1) A project in Haiti that cleaned streets, removed garbage, and created jobs, reducing gang violence and poverty. Over 400 workers were hired and the project improved living conditions.
2) The success story of Olam International, which grew from a Nigerian cashew exporter to a global agribusiness supplying major brands. It guarantees product quality from farm to factory while supporting farmers.
3) Projects using ICT - a Ghanaian mobile marketplace improves food farming/selling, and an Indian initiative addresses rural development by engaging the diaspora. They aim to reduce food waste and unlock human potential through technology.
The document discusses the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) related to reducing extreme poverty and hunger by 2015. It provides details on the goals, including reducing the proportion of people living on less than $1 per day and reducing hunger. Progress that has been made is outlined, including a 30% reduction in extreme poverty in Sub-Saharan Africa. However, it notes rice remains unaffordable for many poor. It discusses the importance of the goals to reduce child mortality and give people the chance to improve their lives and countries. The document advocates for productive employment, government assistance to families, and coordinated action from governments, agencies and individuals to achieve the goals.
The document proposes a year-long global initiative to end world hunger. It would use mass communication and technology to bring stakeholders from around the world together to discuss solutions. Representatives from governments, non-profits, corporations, and the general public would propose and debate strategies. Researchers would analyze the discussions to develop workable plans. The public could influence the talks and later donate to fund the implemented solutions. The goal is to find an accountable and transparent way to solve the political issues behind hunger within one year and help nourish people into becoming productive global citizens.
This presentation was given at The International Union for Land Value Taxation (theIU.org) conference on 25th July 2013 at The School of Economic Science in London. The theme of the day was 'Sharing the Commons', hosted as part of a 5-day conference under the heading: 'Economics for Conscious Evolution: A Geo-Justice Conference'. See here for a link to the video footage: http://www.stwr.org/economic-sharing-alternatives/sharing-the-commons-wealth-power-and-natural-resources.html
Well being, biodiversity, post-2015 agenda, by Ashish KothariAshish Kothari
Well-being practices and world views from around the world are showing transformational alternatives to conventional 'development' and political governance models, as they are based on ecological sustainability, equity, and cultural diversity; these need to influence the post-2015 Sustainable Development Agenda which otherwise remains within today's unsustainable 'growth' paradigm.
Feeding Tomorrows Cities 2.0 - December 2018Wouter de Heij
This document provides an overview of trends challenging the agrofood system and the role of the Netherlands in addressing these challenges through its history of cooperation. Key points:
- Population growth, urbanization, and climate change are putting pressure on global food systems and cities. New approaches to agricultural development and urban agriculture are needed.
- The Netherlands has a history of intensive, efficient agriculture due to its small size and location in a fertile river delta. Cooperation between different sectors led to added value in exports of meat, dairy, vegetables, flowers, and agricultural equipment.
- The Netherlands turns geographical disadvantages into agricultural success through cooperation between producers, knowledge institutions, and government. New partnerships aim to make food systems more sustainable
Charles dushek says the agriculture is important…especially in inner city loc...Charles Dushek
Charles Dushek on: Why is agriculture important? The concept of 'food security' is fundamentally important, and for that reason, agriculture is important. The task of feeding its people has been perhaps the first priority of its rulers throughout history. As such, agriculture is considered to be the very basis of political and social stability of a nation since times immemorial.
The document discusses the problems with profit-motive and the need for a more sustainable economic system. It summarizes the views of The Zeitgeist Movement which advocates eliminating the monetary system and profit motive in favor of a resource-based economy. The movement proposes addressing issues like cyclical consumption, infinite growth, and planned obsolescence through automation, resource sharing, and applying science to governance without money or markets. It encourages practical actions like cooperative ventures and consuming consciously while spreading awareness through regional chapters.
The document discusses issues with the American food system, describing it as a "broken food machine." Over 50 million Americans experience hunger or live in "food deserts" without adequate access to nutritious, affordable food. While hunger is often portrayed as an issue only in developing countries, the reality is that many Americans struggle with hunger as well. The food system prioritizes profit over health and sustainability, with large agricultural corporations controlling production and distribution. This leads to environmental damage, inhumane treatment of animals, unhealthy food options, and the persistence of hunger even as plenty of food is produced worldwide. The document argues that a major problem is widespread ignorance and indifference about how the current system operates.
This document discusses the conflict between sustainability and profit motive. It argues that profit motive is inherently unsustainable as it relies on exploitation and perpetuates disparity. Nature achieves balance through interdependence, not profit. However, human society operates on profit motive through our monetary system. This centralizes power, causes issues like pollution, poverty and war. A resource-based economy without money or private property is proposed as an alternative system for a truly sustainable society.
Environment, Human Rights and Alternatives to Development Ashish Kothari
Presentation to faculty of Ladakh University, Leh campus, 29.3.2022. The clash between mainstream 'development' and environment/livelihoods/culture, and radical alternative practices and worldview that promote equality, justice, and sustainability. Special focus on Ladakh's situation.
PCI Media produces entertainment programs to promote social change worldwide. Their 2017 annual report outlines several programs addressing issues like biodiversity, climate change, marine protection, renewable energy, and more. Their program Wild for Life combats wildlife trafficking through social media and partnerships with UN Goodwill Ambassadors. They have various health programs in countries like Syria, East Timor, Burundi addressing issues such as breastfeeding, maternal and child health. Their radio drama Ouro Negro in Mozambique promotes maternal and child health messages to over 1.5 million listeners. In Bolivia, their program La Caldera uses a radio drama and school curriculum to educate youth on human trafficking and exploitation, reaching over 6,000 students and community members.
Feeding People In Hard Times: What Does Permaculture Have To OfferFayme4q
This document discusses the growing food crisis facing many populations in the US and globally. It notes that 35 million people in the US rely on food aid and that food prices rose significantly in 2007. The author argues that permaculture offers solutions through decentralized local food production that empowers communities and increases food security. Permaculture aims to create sustainable human habitats through working with nature to build productive ecosystems that meet human needs.
P2.3. Improving adaptation to climate change for sustainable development in t...GCARD Conferences
This document discusses improving adaptation to climate change in Uruguay's agricultural sector. It notes the uncertainties in climate change projections and argues for a climate risk management approach focused on adapting to current climate variability. Uruguay's National Agricultural Information System provides climate information and decision support tools to help farmers and policymakers adapt flexibly to a range of possible future climate conditions. The system assists with crop forecasts, technology assessments, and sustainability evaluations. It represents a partnership between international organizations and Uruguay's national institutes to respond to stakeholders' needs.
Oscar Wilde was born in a house on Merrion Street in Dublin, where he lived from 1855 to 1878. The house now displays artifacts related to Wilde's life and work, such as editions of his poems "The Happy Prince" and "The Ballad of Reading Gaol." The Dublin Writers' Museum also honors Wilde with exhibits such as a bust and playbill from his play "Lady Windermere's Fan."
Five necessary policy changes to help achieve improved nutrition and sustaina...GCARD Conferences
AVRDC - The World Vegetable Center promotes increased vegetable production and consumption to alleviate poverty and malnutrition. The document outlines 5 policy changes needed: 1) Move beyond staple crops to promote nutrition. 2) Increase long-term funding for horticultural research. 3) Strengthen market opportunities for smallholder farmers through vegetable value chains. 4) Renew policies to ensure judicious and safe pesticide use through integrated pest management. 5) Reassess public sector policies to provide improved vegetable varieties and ensure food quality and safety standards.
This document summarizes the Empowering Smallholder Farmers in Markets (ESFIM) program, which provides research support to national farmers' organizations (NFOs) to strengthen their advocacy capacities. The program is a collaboration between NFOs in 10 countries and 3 European research institutions. It focuses on farmer-driven research to inform NFO advocacy agendas on issues like market access. Key lessons include the need for a flexible model that balances quality research with advocacy needs, and separate funding lines for research and advocacy. Going forward, dedicated research support funds for NFOs, as well as funds for
P2.3. Research partnerships on climate change mitigation through REDD+ and th...GCARD Conferences
This document summarizes a presentation on a research partnership in Mozambique studying climate change mitigation through REDD+ and its interactions with agriculture. The partnership includes CIFOR, Eduardo Mondlane University, Centro Terra Viva, and other institutions. It aims to present early results and influence policy development in Mozambique. Deforestation rates in Mozambique are high, largely due to agriculture, wood energy, and unsustainable logging. Early results identified the main drivers of deforestation and show that agriculture expansion, population growth, and weak governance are underling challenges for REDD+ in Mozambique. The results are beginning to influence national REDD+ strategy, reference levels, policies, and
The document details Christopher Columbus' voyages from 1485 to 1493, including moving from Genoa to Spain in 1485 and then Lisbon, Portugal in 1477. In 1492, Columbus took three small ships from Spain on August 3rd and landed in the Bahamas on October 12th, returning to Spain in January 1493 after one ship sank in December, with October 12th now being celebrated as Columbus Day on the second Monday of October.
A fejlődő digitális lábnyom, iWowWe sokkal jobban fogja milliomosok, mint bármely más vállalat által megváltoztatják a világot kommunikál. iWowWe a következő alakulása Skype, az Apple és a Microsoft minden gördült be egyet. http://customernation2.iwowwe.com/compensation-plan.html
CABI is a not-for-profit organization that provides scientific expertise and information about agriculture and the environment. It has approximately 350 staff members worldwide and is owned by 47 member countries. CABI aims to strengthen global capacities for effective knowledge and advisory services through activities like scientific publishing, development projects, research, and plant clinics. The document discusses CABI's Plantwise program which establishes plant clinics to provide farmers with diagnoses and treatments for plant problems. It also covers partnerships between CABI and other organizations to improve extension services through mobile advisory programs, scaling challenges, and CABI's contributions to building capacity at individual, national, and regional levels.
Place-Making Through Water Sensitive Urban DesignFiona9864
This document discusses place-making through water sensitive urban design. It defines key terms like water sensitive urban design, place-making, and sense of place. It also reviews literature on using water sensitive urban design techniques in public open spaces and residential areas to enhance place-making. These techniques include swales, wetlands, infiltration basins, and preserving vegetation. The document aims to develop a practice model for evaluating how well case studies achieve place-making through water sensitive urban design.
We need to establish common interlinked platforms at global, regional and national levels for coherent dialogue and policy action, supported by research, related to climate change, agriculture, forestry, crisis response and food security. This session explores the nexus between climate change, agriculture and new needs in partnership. It draws on two CGIAR programs: “Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security” and “Forests, Trees and Agroforestry”
Visit GCARD2 site web for more information: http://gcardblog.wordpress.com/2012/
Nous avons besoins de mettre en place des plates formes d’interactions communes aux niveaux mondial, régional et national pour un dialogue et politique d’actions cohérents supportés par la recherche sur le changement climatique, l’agriculture, la foresterie, les crises et la sécurité alimentaire. Cette section examine les rapports entre le changement climatique, l’agriculture et les nouveaux besoins en partenariat. Il attire l’attention sur deux programmes du CGIAR : "Changement climatique, Agriculture et Sécurité alimentaire" et "Forêts, Arbres et Agroforesterie"
Visitez le site web du GCARD2 pour plus d'informations: http://gcardblog.wordpress.com/2012/
In developing a digital footprint, iWowWe will make more millionaires than any other company by changing the way the world communicates. iWowWe is the next evolution of Skype, Apple and Microsoft all rolled into one. http://customernation2.iwowwe.com/compensation-plan.html
Transitions at work are challenging, complex, and confusing! Here's what over 600 leaders transitioning into first time, middle manager, and executive roles had to say about their ordeals.
The state of foresight in food and agriculture and the roads toward improvementGCARD Conferences
The GCARD2 process on foresight is intended to advance the Roadmap actions required, paving the way for developing more effective approaches in line with the partnership principles, smallholder farmer and impact-centred focus of the GCARD. The key question the foresight session intends to address is: “What role could smallholder farmers play in meeting future needs in food and nutrition security, poverty alleviation and sustainable management of natural resources?” http://www.egfar.org/gcard-2012
Le processus de la GCARD2 sur la prospective a pour but de promouvoir les actions nécessaires de la Feuille de route en vue de favoriser le développement des approches plus efficaces et respectueuses des principes du partenariat, des petits producteur et de la question des impacts ciblées de la GCARD. Cette section permettra de répondre de façon adéquate à la question : «Quel rôle les petits agriculteurs pourraient-ils jouer le future dans la recherche des solutions aux défis de la sécurité alimentaire et nutritionnelle, de la réduction de la pauvreté et de gestion durable des ressources naturelles? http://www.egfar.org/gcard-2012
El proceso de GCARD2 en la prospectiva se pretende avanzar en las acciones del plan necesarias, allanando el camino para el desarrollo de enfoques más eficaces en consonancia con los principios de asociación, agricultores minifundistas y enfoque centrado en el impacto de la GCARD. La cuestión clave de la sesión de prospectiva pretende la dirección es: "Qué papel podría los pequeños agricultores juegan en satisfacer las necesidades futuras en seguridad alimentaria y nutricional, reducción de la pobreza y gestión sostenible de los recursos naturales?"
http://www.egfar.org/gcard-2012
Agricultural Research in a Transforming country: Views from the Vietnamese (r...GCARD Conferences
Vietnam has experienced an agricultural miracle with agricultural GDP increasing 4.2% annually from 1990-1999 and 3.7% from 2000-2012. This is due to increased productivity, especially of rice which benefited from expanded irrigation and higher cropping intensity. However, Vietnam's agricultural research and development efforts are declining and fragmented, with expenditure on agricultural R&D less than 0.2% of agricultural GDP compared to over 1% in countries like Brazil and China. An emerging research agenda focuses on developing climate resilient and higher quality rice varieties, as well as crops suitable for upland and ethnic minority areas.
C2.1. NAIP: Engagement for Reforms in Organizational Development of Indian NARSGCARD Conferences
NAIP was a $250 million World Bank project launched in 2006 as a successor to previous agricultural research and development projects to demonstrate an agricultural innovation system approach in India. The project aimed to strengthen scientific capacity, market orientation, social inclusion, and institutional capacity of India's national agricultural research system through competitive funding of large, multi-institutional projects involving partnerships between public, private, and civil society groups. While the project achieved some successes like commercialization of technologies, establishment of rural industries, and training of scientists, it also faced challenges like slow credit utilization, documentation, and mainstreaming of results. The document proposes disseminating lessons from NAIP through various print, electronic, and participatory media channels.
The agenda of GCARD2 (.pdf). Cleaned updated version of 26 october 2012.
Le programme de la GCARD2 (.pdf). La version actuelisee (propre) du 26 octobre 2012
http://www.egfar.org/gcard-2012
GCARD2: Foresight, projections and issues of Agricultural Research Coordination for future smallholder impact http://www.egfar.org/gcard-2012
GCARD2: Perspectives, projections et enjeu de la coordination d'une recherche agricole orientée dans le future vers des petits paysans http://www.egfar.org/gcard-2012
GCARD2 Prospectiva, proyecciones y problemas de coordinación de la investigación agrícola para el impacto futuro de agricultores pequeños. http://www.egfar.org/gcard-2012
Donors pledged over $22 billion over 3 years at the 2009 L'Aquila G7 Summit to address global food security through the L'Aquila Food Security Initiative (AFSI). The donors committed to align investments with country-led plans, pursue comprehensive approaches, strengthen strategic coordination, leverage multilateral institutions, and make sustained commitments. By 2012, donors had committed 99% and disbursed 58% of the $22 billion pledge. Sub-initiatives of AFSI are investigating ways to increase transparency and monitor commitments on agricultural research funding and the impact of funds spent in select countries on reducing poverty and stunting.
GSR's May 2013 Newsletter Issue No.23. It covers the latest major events and themes that shape the organization's activities and policies. Also featuring Christopher Danch's (GSR's CLO) article.
1) The document is a statement given at the "Beating Famine in Southern Africa" conference in Lilongwe, Malawi by Commissioner Rhoda Peace on behalf of the African Union Commission.
2) It discusses the ongoing problem of famine, malnutrition, and hunger plaguing Africa despite its natural resources, noting over 14 million people are affected by famine in Southern Africa alone.
3) It argues famine is largely man-made and caused by issues like lack of innovation, outdated agricultural systems, inequality preventing full participation by women and youth, and land degradation exacerbated by climate change and population pressures.
Breaking the food-system divide with Smart Food - good for you, the planet an...ICRISAT
The document discusses the "food-system divide" that has led to most investments going to just three major crops - rice, wheat, and maize - despite the need for greater dietary diversity. It proposes focusing on "Smart Food" - foods that are nutritious, environmentally sustainable, and support farmers - such as millets and sorghum. The initiative aims to increase demand for and production of Smart Foods through scientific research, consumer awareness campaigns, supporting farmers, and filling knowledge gaps to help address issues like malnutrition, poverty, and climate change. The speaker seeks partners to help mainstream Smart Foods as staples globally.
The document proposes a solution called "A Year to End Hunger" to address the global issue of hunger. It suggests organizing a televised annual forum bringing together stakeholders from around the world to discuss and develop workable solutions. Fundraising would support implementing approved projects in different regions. The goal is to use mass communication and collaboration over one year to develop a comprehensive plan to end world hunger.
This document proposes a solution to end world hunger called "A Year to End Hunger". It involves [1] using mass media like CNN to hold weekly forums over one year where stakeholders propose and discuss solutions, [2] forming teams to research and design strategies, [3] fundraising to support approved projects, and [4] implementing tasks forces to carry out projects around the world. The goal is to work together globally through communication and action to solve the "root cause" of hunger.
The document discusses the issue of world hunger and proposes several solutions. It begins by noting that although the earth has enough resources to support its population, many people lack access to food and safe water due to uneven distribution. Poor communities are often trapped in a cycle of poverty that is exacerbated by lack of nutrition and healthcare. The document then examines some root causes of poverty, including lack of education, health issues, economic factors, and debt. It argues that small changes like donations of food or money could help alleviate hunger. Overall, the document analyzes factors contributing to world hunger and advocates for more assistance to help lift people out of poverty.
The document discusses achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) of reducing extreme poverty and hunger by 2015. It notes that some progress has been made, with 30% of sub-Saharan Africa's population no longer suffering from extreme poverty or food insecurity. However, it also discusses challenges, such as high rice prices in Africa making it unaffordable for the poor. The document outlines how the MDGs aim to reduce poverty and hunger by increasing employment and incomes, and providing immediate assistance to vulnerable families. It emphasizes the need for actions from governments, organizations, and individuals to achieve these important goals by the 2015 deadline.
The document discusses achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) of reducing extreme poverty and hunger by 2015. It notes that some progress has been made, with 30% of sub-Saharan Africa's population no longer suffering from extreme poverty or food insecurity. However, it also discusses challenges, such as high rice prices in Africa making it unaffordable for the poor. The document outlines how the MDGs aim to reduce poverty and hunger by increasing employment and incomes, and providing immediate assistance to vulnerable families through actions by governments, organizations, and individuals.
The document discusses challenges faced by third world countries, including poverty, lack of infrastructure, and poor living conditions. It notes that most of the world's population growth occurs in third world nations, which include Latin America, Africa, parts of Asia, and some oceanic islands. Citizens of third world countries face difficulties like poverty, lack of access to resources, and injustice in the global economic system. Overall, the passage examines the issues plaguing developing nations and the hardships experienced by their populations.
The document discusses cooperative financial institutions (CFIs) and cooperative banks in South Africa. It notes that there are currently 26 registered CFIs and 2 cooperative banks in the country. CFIs are member-owned financial cooperatives that provide savings and credit services to their members. The Cooperative Banks Development Agency promotes and regulates CFIs and aims to develop a strong cooperative banking sector. CFIs can play an important role by improving access to affordable financial services, promoting savings, and investing in local communities and cooperatives. However, CFIs remain relatively unknown in South Africa and face challenges in changing perceptions.
In the late 1980s, Cuba had a fairly successful economy dependent on Soviet subsidies. When the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991, Cuba lost these subsidies and was pushed into an economic crisis. Food shortages became prevalent as imports slowed down and stopped, triggering human migration out of Cuba and an imbalance in their development.
Pope Francis' encyclical Laudato Si addresses the ecological crisis and calls for protection of our common home, the Earth. The document discusses how political decisions are often short-sighted and influenced by corporate interests instead of considering the long-term common good. It also notes that while environmentalism has gained popularity, it is sometimes used by politicians, organizations, and businesses merely as a means for profit rather than genuine concern for the planet. The encyclical calls for ecological conversion and protecting the Earth as our duty, recognizing that we must care for resources sustainably and for future generations.
Pope Francis issued an encyclical called "Laudato Si" to address the ecological crisis and environmental destruction facing the planet. The document calls all people, including those outside the Church, to immediate dialogue on this issue, which the Pope sees as a major concern affecting everyone. While some criticize the need for an ecological conversion in relationships with nature, protecting the earth is a duty and vocation for all as stewards of our common home. However, popular ecologism has led some politicians, businesses, and NGOs to exploit environmental issues for their own gain rather than genuine concern for the planet. True ecological conversion requires changing human behaviors and prioritizing our shared future and resources.
GLOBAL FOOD HOW BEST TO FEED THE WORLD Order Description.docxwrite4
This document discusses various perspectives on achieving global food security and feeding the world's growing population. It outlines perspectives from Christian churches, advocates for dietary and attitude changes, multinational agribusinesses, scientific research bodies, farmers, and international aid/development agencies. For each perspective, it identifies their beliefs and potential resolutions, and who might benefit. It also discusses issues around the role of scientific advances, climate change, economic/political structures, and the interests of different stakeholder groups in debates around food security.
Similar to F3.1. Equitable partnerships for foresights (14)
GFAR / GODAN / CTA webinar #2 "Key data for farmers" - Stephen Kalyesubula - ...GCARD Conferences
[Webinar recording in last slide or at https://youtu.be/taHHp3UbRZI, 28/2/2018]
As part of its work on farmers’ data rights and following up on the face-to-face course on Farmers’ Access to Data organized in Centurion in November 2017, GFAR collaborates with the Global Open Data for Agriculture and Nutrition initiative (GODAN) and the Technical Center for Agricultural and Rural Cooperarion (CTA) on a series of webinars on data-driven agriculture, its opportunities and its challenges.
Overview of webinar #2
Data becomes significant if it can be linked to information, knowledge and wisdom. Once processed it can be used to generate detailed insights into farm operations and the environment. It assists big and small holder farmers in making data-based operational decisions to optimize yield and boost revenue while minimizing expenses, the chances of crop failure, and environmental impact.
For data driven agriculture to happen we have to distinguish the data streams in the food chain from pre-planting to consumption, for example: data collected and managed from the farm by farmers which can be either static or dynamic; data coming from external sources like market prices and data that is exported for aggregation by other farm service providers. However, farmers may not be in a position to realize those streams and possibly what data and information is required to answer the food chain questions, for example: What produce can I grow where I live? When should I sow/plant/harvest/market it? How should I sow/plant/harvest/market it? All these questions can be answered if the factual data or information is used or made available to the farmers.
Webinar Goals
Make the participants understand the different key data streams, flow and sources that are vital to agricultural value chains. Participants will be in position to identify the data they own or collect on their farms and its usefulness, understand the difference between human and machine farm data, identify the part in the agricultural value chain where data, and which data, is needed most.
About the presenter
Stephen Kalyesubula is a Computer Engineering and an agri-preneur from Makerere University. He is a graduate researcher at iLabs@Mak Project – Makerere University and his key technological interests include: Data science, robotics, Internet of things, AI and design thinking. He is among the directors of Youths In Technology and Development Uganda whose mission is to create tech communities of practice where appropriate use of technology promotes sustainable development in agriculture, health and education.
[Webinar recording in last slide or at https://youtu.be/DMg9UI7Ur0M, 26/3/2018]
As part of its work on farmers’ data rights and following up on the face-to-face course on Farmers’ Access to Data organized in Centurion in November 2017, GFAR collaborates with the Global Open Data for Agriculture and Nutrition initiative (GODAN) and the Technical Center for Agricultural and Rural Cooperarion (CTA) on a series of webinars on data-driven agriculture, its opportunities and its challenges.
Overview of webinar #3
This webinar is a continuation of exploring digital agriculture for smallholder farmers. The first webinar provided an overview of digital agriculture, the trends impacting it, and it advantages and challenges for smallholder farmers. The second identified specific data needed by farmers, as well as potential sources.
“Crossing the Donga” will provide smallholder farmers, and those who support them, specific methods for ensuring farmer-centric solutions. The webinar will examine some of the key challenges that are blocking adoption of digital architecture by smallholder farmers. Attendees will learn a process for mapping their data needs, based on their goals and key tasks. Attendees will learn the foundational market model, and how to create value for success.
About the presenter
Dan Berne is a highly regarded professional business growth strategist with over 30 years’ experience. Dan led the effort to create an Ag Irrigation market strategy for the Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA). He also conducted grower experience studies to help identify barriers to grower adoption of energy saving practices. Dan wrote or co-wrote many of the NEEA Ag Irrigation reports. Dan serves as the Project Manager on AgGateway’s Precision Ag Irrigation Language data standards project. He is an affiliate of the Chasm Institute, and a certified practitioner of Innovation Games.
Dan started the “Lagom Ag Initiative” within his company to help accelerate the adoption of precision farming practices and improve the use of digital agricultural methodologies. Lagom is a Swedish word that means “just enough.” It is also used to mean “simply perfect.” It fits our philosophy of helping farmers use just enough water, just enough fertilizers, just enough energy to be profitable while increasing or maintaining yield.
GFAR / GODAN / CTA webinar #1 "Data-driven agriculture. An overview" - Dan Be...GCARD Conferences
[Webinar recording in last slide or at https://youtu.be/bsicKqHZIz4, 22/2/2018]
As part of its work on farmers’ data rights and following up on the face-to-face course on Farmers’ Access to Data organized in Centurion in November 2017, GFAR collaborates with the Global Open Data for Agriculture and Nutrition initiative (GODAN) and the Technical Center for Agricultural and Rural Cooperarion (CTA) on a series of webinars on data-driven agriculture, its opportunities and its challenges.
Overview of webinar #1
Precision agriculture is a promising set of technologies that is data intensive, but which has limited adoption by small holder farms in Sub-Saharan Africa. Concurrently, current trends in sustainability, traceability, and compliance reporting demand that an ever-increasing amount of data be gathered as part of everyday operations in modern production agriculture.
The use of farm management information systems (FMIS) for decision support has shown great promise for improving farm yields and profitability. However, growers are often unsure of the value of the data that they are providing and/or receiving. How does this data help them make the right decisions to improve their yield and profitability? How do growers and service providers work together to simplify the design and use of farm data? How can smallholder farmers take advantage of data in a mutually valuable relationship with data providers?
Webinar Goals
Provide attendees a foundation for understanding the use of data for farming and across the agricultural value chain. Attendees should be able to apply the core concepts of using data for field operations, as well as how data is used across the value chain. Attendees will be introduced to the opportunities and challenges of using data, especially for smallholder farmers.
About the presenter
Dan Berne is a highly regarded professional business growth strategist with over 30 years’ experience. Dan led the effort to create an Ag Irrigation market strategy for the Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA). He also conducted grower experience studies to help identify barriers to grower adoption of energy saving practices. Dan wrote or co-wrote many of the NEEA Ag Irrigation reports. Dan serves as the Project Manager on AgGateway’s Precision Ag Irrigation Language data standards project. He is an affiliate of the Chasm Institute, and a certified practitioner of Innovation Games.
Dan started the “Lagom Ag Initiative” within his company to help accelerate the adoption of precision farming practices and improve the use of digital agricultural methodologies. Lagom is a Swedish word that means “just enough.” It is also used to mean “simply perfect.” It fits our philosophy of helping farmers use just enough water, just enough fertilizers, just enough energy to be profitable while increasing or maintaining yield.
GFAR webinar "The future of online media" - webdesign trendsGCARD Conferences
This presentation was used during our GFAR webinar on "The future of online media", announced here: https://blog.gfar.net/2016/10/09/upcoming-webinar-predicting-future-online-media/
Check out the live webinar recording here: https://youtu.be/N8UkwOoI9hQ
GFAR webinar "building a bridge between scientists and communicators"GCARD Conferences
These is the slide deck of presentations used during the webinar "Building a bridge between scientists and communicators"
This webinar was organised by GFAR
It was introduced in this blogpost: https://blog.gfar.net/2017/01/03/webinar-scientists-and-communicators-friends-or-foes/
The video recording of the actual webinar can be found on our Youtube channel: https://youtu.be/HK8Q0JgAaGQ
These is the slide deck of presentations used during the webinar "Email newsletters"
This webinar was organised by GFAR
It was introduced in this blogpost: https://blog.gfar.net/2017/02/05/upcoming-comms-webinar-email-based-newsletters-not-a-thing-of-the-past/
The video recording of the actual webinar can be found on our Youtube channel: https://youtu.be/2NPpCxcJJUc
GFAR Webinar "Finding and using pictures for your website or blog"GCARD Conferences
These is the slide deck of presentations used during the webinar "Website Revamps"
This webinar was organised by GFAR
It was introduced in this blogpost: https://blog.gfar.net/2016/06/13/webinar-alert-is-a-picture-worth-a-thousand-words/
The video recording of the actual webinar can be found on our Youtube channel: https://youtu.be/mJ-q1CxK_rQ
This document summarizes a webinar on basic search engine optimization. The webinar covers: why search traffic is important, how to check your site's search traffic statistics, how Google ranks content based on on-page and off-page SEO factors like links and keywords, and tips for improving search results such as submitting the site to Google Webmaster and optimizing content, pages, and images. The goal is to turn accidental first-time visitors into returning visitors through good webmastering skills like internal links, navigation, and engaging content.
GFAR webinar on "Measuring social media performance"GCARD Conferences
These is the slide deck of presentations used during the webinar "Innovative Annual Reports"
This webinar was co-organised by GFAR and CGIAR.
It was introduced in this blogpost: https://blog.gfar.net/2016/01/18/flash-two-more-gfar-social-media-webinars/
These is the slide deck of presentations used during the webinar "Innovative Annual Reports"
This webinar was co-organised by GFAR and CGIAR
It was introduced in this blogpost: https://blog.gfar.net/2015/11/30/free-induction-webinar-social-media-for-professionals/
The video recording of the actual webinar can be found on our Youtube channel: https://youtu.be/WO1zUOOy1nA
These is the slide deck of presentations used during the webinar "Innovative Annual Reports"
This webinar was organised by GFAR
It was introduced in this blogpost: https://blog.gfar.net/2017/11/26/webinar-innovating-annual-reports/
The video recording of the actual webinar can be found on our Youtube channel: https://youtu.be/BAsPhl0H4Ec
GFAR-TAP webinar on "Sharing Knowledge on Capacity Development for Agricultur...GCARD Conferences
These is the slide deck of presentations used during the webinar "Sharing Knowledge on Capacity Development for Agricultural Innovation through TAPipedia"
This webinar was co-organised by GFAR and TAP.
It was introduced in this blogpost: https://blog.gfar.net/2017/10/24/gfartap-webinar-sharing-knowledge-on-capacity-development-for-agricultural-innovation-through-tapipedia/
The video recording of the actual webinar can be found on our Youtube channel: https://youtu.be/_cHK5QK2rPk
GFAR COSA GLF webinar on "Effective Tools for Understanding, Managing and Acc...GCARD Conferences
These is the slide deck of presentations used during the webinar "Effective Tools for Understanding, Managing and Accelerating Impact"
This webinar was co-organised by GFAR, COSA and GLF and is part of a wider series on agricultural research & innovation,eco-systems management and sustainable development.
It was introduced in this blogpost: https://blog.gfar.net/2017/10/13/join-cosa-gfar-impact-webinar/
The video recording of the actual webinar can be found on our Youtube channel: Effective https://youtu.be/RtYlWo_Ok5o
With thanks to our co-hosts in this webinar: (COSA) Global Landscapes forum (GLF) and Committee on Sustainability Assessment (COSA) -
https://thecosa.org/
http://landscapes.org
GFAR webinar: "The art and science of webcasting and webstreaming"GCARD Conferences
This presentation was used in the GFAR webinar on "The art and science of webcasting and webstreaming"
The announcement blogpost was published here: https://blog.gfar.net/2017/10/05/gfar-webinar-web-casting/
You can find the full recording of this webinar here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bs7IsZQi5zg
GFAR webinar: "Farmers’ Rights: Complementarity between Researchers and Farmers"GCARD Conferences
This presentation was used in the GFAR webinar on "Farmers’ Rights: How Complementarity between Researchers and Farmers Impact the Conservation of Genetic Diversity, Food Security and Livelihoods of the Poor”
The announcement blogpost was published here: https://blog.gfar.net/2017/08/31/gfar-webinar-communications-success-stories/
You can find the full recording of this webinar here: https://youtu.be/N16hHmL8xNM
This presentation was used in the GFAR webinar on "Beyond decision making: Foresight as a process for improving attitude towards change" --
The announcement blogpost was published here: https://blog.gfar.net/2017/08/25/join-our-gfar-webinar-farmers-rights/
You can find the full recording of this webinar here: https://youtu.be/RxuLR2FWYYI
Beyond decision making: Foresight as a process for improving attitude towards...GCARD Conferences
This presentation was used in the GFAR webinar on "Beyond decision making: Foresight as a process for improving attitude towards change" --
The announcement blogpost was published here: https://blog.gfar.net/2017/06/07/gfar-webinar-beyond-decision-making-foresight-as-a-process-for-improving-attitude-towards-change/
You can find the full recording of this webinar here: https://youtu.be/8tzz5vNEhZ4
Farmers’ Rights: Achieving Complementarity Between the Informal and Formal Se...GCARD Conferences
This presentation was used in the GFAR webinar on "Farmers’ Rights: Achieving Complementarity Between the Informal and Formal Seed Systems". -- Announcement blogpost was here: https://blog.gfar.net/2017/05/10/gfar-webinar-farmers-rights-achieving-complementarity-between-the-informal-and-formal-seed-systems/
...and the actual webinar recording can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xQ9c2_nbtBc
GFAR webinar on farm radio, community radio and participatory radioGCARD Conferences
The webinar presentation discussed the use of radio to promote agriculture among youth in Tanzania. It described how the organization Well Told Story used their Shujaaz radio program to address factors influencing youth perceptions of agriculture, such as the need to see connections between agriculture and dreams/money, lack of knowledge about agriculture value chains, and few role models in the field. The presentation shared initial research findings on youth views and the strategies used in the radio program, such as featuring success stories and role models, to positively influence attitudes. It noted some lessons learned so far and goals to continue using radio to provide information and shift social norms regarding agriculture as a career.
This presentation was used in the GFAR webinar on Participatory Video. -- Announcement here: https://blog.gfar.net/2017/04/24/join-our-next-webinar-on-participatory-video/
...and the actual webinar recording can be found here:
1. Equitable partnerships for foresights
Input Gine Zwart,Oxfam
nd
2 Global Conference on Agricultural Research for Development (GCARD)
Punta del Este, Uruguay, Tuesday 30th of November 2012
“When it comes to hunger, the only acceptable number is zero” (Graziano da Silva,FAO
Director in his opening speech at the CFS Rome, October 2012) . The IFAD director, mr
Nwanze basically said the same in his opening speech on Sunday.
I guess nobody can disagree with this. Nobody wakes up in the morning and thinks today I
am going to make sure x number of people will sink further into poverty and be hungry.
The reality is that many of our actions actually do have that result. The reality is that the
number of people hungry has been stubbornly stagnant, whether it being 1 billion; 950
million or more or less, is not the point as mr Nwanze said in his opening speech.
Can research – can foresights play a role to make this number zero, to trigger real
change?
The chance of success will greatly increase if we manage to listen to those who are
hungry, the women and men who make up this figure, the many producers in the global
South.
How to get that done? I do not have a power point to show, I wanted to use the power
point of the future, a prezi but that was not allowed according to the strict rules of the
GCARD. So I will defy the marching orders and not use a presentation at all, and ask you
to listen.
My name is Gine Zwart, I work for Oxfam, an international development NGO and it is a
great honour and pleasure for me to have been offered this opportunity to pick up what
has been discussed today on equitable partnerships, share some of the practical
experiences of Oxfam and fortunately - be allowed to give some critical remarks.
There are hundreds of examples of multi stakeholder models, partnerships, participatory
research, etc. some more equitable than others - to share. The Global Foresight hub of
the GFAR (Global Forum for Agricultural Research) came across s a few examples and we
heard some today.
The words of this session: equitable partnerships is very close to my heart.
Here also many people will agree and have positive connotations with these words.
Equitable – Partnership
At the same time people start to wonder, think and shiver: Partnership - are we to get
into some kind of marital arrangements? How to organise this? It is far too expensive.
With who? There are millions of small-scale poor farmers: who represents who?
Equitable: why, what does that mean? What methods to use? And many more barriers or
fears pop up. I will deal with them one by one.
1
2. Costs - Inclusiveness is too expensive
Then how expensive is it to sit under a tree? How expensive is it to listen?
On the 18th of June this year the CGIAR presented its Global Agricultural Research Agenda
to Improve the lives of the Poor while Protecting the Planet1 . A research agenda worth
$5 billion over five years. “CGIAR’s ambitious research agenda aims to reduce rural
poverty, improve the food security, health and nutrition of hundreds of millions of the
world’s poorest people, and ensure sustainable management of natural resources.” It
goes on: “Increasing the productivity of small‐scale farmers, who provide up to 80% of the
food supply in developing countries, is an essential part of the sustainable agricultural
equation and a top priority of the CGIAR.” “Everyone deserves the opportunity to have
access to safe, sufficient and nutritious food and economic security— as well as a healthy
planet,” these are not the words of an Oxfam CEO, it are the words of mr Rijsberman the
new CEO of CGIAR. Yesterday we heard many more of all these sweet words that break
our poor harts.
So there are myriad good intentions and there is a lot of money. At the same time it does
not cost that much to listen, to sit under a tree, to have a conversation. Money is not the
issue here. It is the will, the political will to take the effort to listen.
I have the chance of being part of a community, which might be called an equitable
partnership, a knowledge programme with 70 organisations working with millions of
farmers and millions of hectares producing healthy food and valuable knowledge costing
relatively little. Unity for diversity.
The work of these organisations is labour intensive; however it is extremely cheap if you
would be able to include all the benefits it reaps in terms of food security, assets and
institution building and the costs of poverty it puts to a stop. Examples within this
community show that interventions begin with the restoration of community
management. Next is the emphasis on local knowledge generated and refined to current
use over generations with no costs except for people talking. Modern science has proven
to give us some short term successes, but still needs to proof it can have success that
takes us for 1000 years to come. With this group of organisations’ we set out a future
vision of resilient communities without too much difficulty.
Despite a rich biodiversity of more than 5000 edible plants in the world well over half of
our food now comes from only three plants: rice, corn, wheat. To add to that 80% of the
export of these crops come from five countries (IFPRI) and are controlled by four
companies. For this community described above and for many others that is NOT the
future we want to live in. It is a very vulnerable and risky situation, much more
vulnerable, risky and un sustainable than many of the farming and food systems that are
now associated with these terms.
1
ref press release 18 June 2012 www.cgiar.org
2
3. It is time to change the trend of the dominant narrative succeeding in attracting financial
resources at the expense of alternative narratives proposing alternative futures.
Smallholders are now the buzz word, also in the CGIAR. We hear it in every other
sentence. We do not need a foresight study to predict that if ecological agriculture, or
agricultural biodiversity or low external input sustainable agriculture is not taken up as a
research priority, the system will loose its credibility, not only among smallholder farmers,
but among the general public and eventually donors too.
The Foresight working group has come with a set of actions: The first set of actions would
not require additional resources from stakeholders, but the willingness to actively engage
some of their existing resources in strengthening the inclusion of farmers’ voices in on-
going foresight works.
The other set of actions for the establishment of a regular arena for dialogue between
foresight practitioners and farmer organizations, NGOs and CSO and a collective multi-
disciplinary multi-sector foresight project on the Farmers of the Future would require
additional resources or specific large-scale programme investment.
Complex - involving more people makes everything complex
Diversity is not the same as complexity.
The variety of people shapes systems, shape futures, so it is only logical to ensure a
variety of people is shaping foresight studies too. In fact diversity of voices being included
in any process can save us from gross mistakes and provide surprising solutions.
I would like to tell a short story about heaven and hell, I heard recently from Desmond
Tutu. It is based on a Jewish folk tale that tells the story of a man who wanted to
understand Heaven and Hell.
First, he travelled to Hell.
Here, row after row of table was piled high with platters of food yet the people seated
around the tables were starving to death. Each person held a full spoon but the spoon was
very long, so they could not bring the food to their mouths.
Next he went to Heaven.
The setting was the same here as in Hell – row after row of long tables laden with food and
all people had these long spoons. However the people in Heaven were happy and well fed.
He couldn’t work out why things were so different so he watched for a while.
As he watched, a man picked up his spoon and dug it into the dish before him. Then he
stretched across the table and fed the person across from him. The recipient thanked him
and returned the gesture.
It is as simple as that.
3
4. Us not being able to see the simple solutions and immediately looking for technical
solutions and us not understanding certain systems we are not used to and calling these
systems complex and difficult surely should not be the problem of people living in these
systems.
Sometimes foresight can help us see that we don’t need longer or shorter spoons but can
simply change our behaviour.
Who to listen to? Who represents who?
There are millions of smallholder farmers. Exactly because there are millions it is good to
listen to even one. Many weak signals in fact are strong realities to people living in
poverty. Think of biofuels, land grab, GMOs, to name a few.
Europe has over 40 000 cooperatives or similar organisations, staffed by over 600 000
people (FAO). In Africa this figure is probably much higher. These producer organisations,
cooperatives, savings groups, labour exchange group, or women’s groups are not staffed,
most is voluntary and un paid work. They do have valuable knowledge to share and have
mechanisms to do so and to mobilise people. Asia surely has staggering figures as the
level of organisation through self-help groups in e.g. India is extremely high. All this is
social capital that can be built on and listened to.
Foresight is dominated by western or northern views of the future, from scientists in
developed and emerging countries, with limited inclusion of voices from other sectors
and other regions. Boosting agricultural productivity seems to be the inevitable solution
and most foresights come to an unavoidable growth path towards the future. Yields are
only part of the range of ecological, social and economic benefits delivered by farming
systems: so why this pre occupation with yields? The question one wonders about: to
what extent is this analysis based on an underlying world view that is not made explicit? 2
A world view that is dominated by individual ownership and capital accumulation as being
the highest achievable and desirable.
If we were to take the world view of the fast majority of people who are actually non-
western we might get different foresights. Cyclical as opposed to linear; abundance and
trust as opposed to scarcity and dis trust; living as a privilege that comes with certain
duties instead of living as a right that comes with privileges, people as part of nature as
opposed to nature to be there to serve people, deriving rights, and explaining ones
existence, from relationships and not from property are just a few fundamental
differences that come to mind that would influence the outcome of any foresight or
research dominated by non-western world views.
Robin said: We cannot predict the future: we can create it. The question is: WHO creates
it?
2
see also Erik Mathijs brief no. 01 : Sustainable food consumption and production in a resource constrained
world.
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5. Partnership
Key words for partnerships are respect, trust and mutually empowering. For any
knowledge intensive process trust is key while at the same time if it is not empowering
there is not reason to be in a partnership. Small -scale producers are not form Mars, they
are not aliens, they are people like you and me and they need to be able to trust the
partner they work with. History has given them reasons enough to be careful with sharing
their trust.
Only eight out of the foresights studied by the GFAR foresight group specifically indicate
foresight as a learning or capacity building process for many of the participants.
The capacity to change policy and orient actions is very much linked with the demand for
foresight from a decision-maker, and the ability of foresight leaders to directly interact
with decision makers in the policy setting process.3
How to make it equitable
Food and agriculture has become a global issue of importance to us all. That is relatively
new. It is the first time in history that the melting of a glacier in Nepal has something to
do with the bread we ate at lunch. It is the first time in history that food can be put into a
car; the first time in history that fuel and food prices are so clearly linked. 40% of the
USA’s maize harvest goes into the fuel tank of our cars. It has huge impact on the food
prices, yet it has very little impact on the fuel price.
We seem not to be able to react to this new reality very well, despite all the rhetoric of
business as usual not being good enough anymore. We are facing a number of crises at
the same time; many people are starting to agree. However most talk is as if it is some
kind of accidental oversight or lack of research, rather than an outcome of historical
processes. At the root of the multiple crises lies a power imbalance.
It is both common sense and common (economic) knowledge that money is power. So in
order to make any relationship more equitable: I would say follow the money and see
where the changes can be made and see why it is difficult to talk about equitable
partnerships in many cases.
Having said that the internet has this great potential of democratising and giving
opportunities for more equity in knowledge gathering, sharing, generating, testing ideas
and feeding into research and foresight agenda’s.
I am taking the opportunity to advertise the Future of Agriculture on-line debate that we
as Oxfam will be holding the first two weeks of December. Farmers, cso leaders, ps actors
and the directors of the FAO, IFAD and IFPRI have all been writing 1500 word essay
answering four different What if questions and these will be used to start a debate on the
3
Chapter 1 of the report “the voice of Smallholders in Shaping Priorities, chapter 3 of the report on the State
of foresight in food and agriculture and the roads toward improvement, prepared for the CGARD 2012
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6. Future of agriculture in over 40 countries at the same time in French Spanish and English.
On the internet a voice counts rather than ones position. Please feel invited to join this
conversation (www.oxfam.org/grow).
Complexity and diversity are assets and it is simple we need not to un tie the Gordian
knot, we should rather look for complex and diverse - Gordian - solutions.
I like to belief that if the man in Tutu’s story was a woman, she would have taken the tale
a step further than just to understand what was happening. She would have connected
the people from Hell and Heaven, as making connections is one of the many core
competences of women world-wide.
Thank you for listening
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