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What is Our Food Worth to Us?

2022-01-05

At the Nutrition for Growth (N4G) Summit in Tokyo held on 7-8th December, the TMG Think Thank side event on True Cost Accounting (TCA) explores integrated valuation tools for a sustainable food systems transformation.

TCA is an integrated valuation framework taking into account the business level, as well as the overarching public policies, regulatory frameworks and monitoring and reporting systems that govern the agri-food sector. © TMG Think Tank/2021

By TMG – ThinkTankforSustainabilty

The Töpfer Müller Gaßner GmbH (TMG) as a "Think Tank for Sustainability" supports the implementation of sustainable development targets and the Paris Climate Agreement.

All contributions

The food choices we make each day are determined by an array of factors, including our economic situation, cultural background, and personal preferences. When added up, these and other individual decisions have a profound impact on how food is produced and distributed, and ultimately, on our health, livelihoods and the natural environment.

It is estimated that today's agri-food systems account for approximately 24 percent of greenhouse gas releases and 70 percent of freshwater withdrawals.

Agriculture is the primary driver of tropical deforestation and biodiversity loss, and increases the risk of future pandemics.

At the same time, between 720 and 811 million people in the world faced hunger in 2020, an increase of more than 160 million in just one year. At current food prices, at least three billion people cannot afford a healthy diet. The COVID-19 pandemic has further revealed just how unsustainable, vulnerable and 'grotesquely unjust' our food systems are.

The market value of global food is estimated to be around nine trillion US dollars, but external costs to the environment and society are estimated to be nearly double this figure, at 19.8 trillion US dollars. This means that the food we purchase costs roughly a third of what it would if costs to society – such as environmental degradation or health costs – were taken into account. While it can induce some behavior change, simply raising the price of food is unlikely to address the underlying environmental, social and health impacts of our distorted food systems.

Die befragten Menschen möchten sich aktiver an Food-Governance-Prozessen beteiligen. (c) SLE — TCA analysis of COMACO’s Impact. © Global Alliance for the Future of Food/2021

Getting our Food Systems Back on Track

Just how do we transform our food systems to be more sustainable and resilient while delivering healthy diets to all?

This was the hotly debated question at the Nutrition for Growth (N4G) 2021 Summit side event 'Counting the True Cost: How Understanding the Real Cost of Food can Improve Nutrition for All'. While True Cost Accounting (TCA) is still in its infancy, several TCA case studies presented at the session helped illustrate how TCA assessments help identify value across all four capitals: natural, human, produced, and social. For example, COMACO, a social enterprise in Zambia, strengthens livelihood opportunities by promoting regenerative agricultural practices, hence contributing to environmental protection. By linking farmers to multiple market opportunities, the project also contributes to higher economic returns.

TMG Research and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) launched their recently published report 'True Cost Accounting and Dietary Standards' at the session. The report offers practical guidance for policy makers and other stakeholders on how to incentivize sustainable and healthy food consumption while staying within planetary boundaries.

Abbildung des SLE basierend auf FIES-Indikator der FAO. — The N4G side event takes place with reference to the newly published report by TMG and WWF on True Cost Accounting.

Carrots and Sticks

Private sector representatives at the side event described how they have started to use TCA to assess the sustainability of their portfolios. Some companies also use TCA analyses to encourage their clients and business networks to invest in more sustainable products and businesses.

Many speakers concurred that incentives are much more effective than punitive measures in driving behavioral change. Discussing the application of the sugar tax, for example, it was noted that many companies simply use other sugar substitutes that can be even more harmful than plain sugar. The US-based Wholesome Wave Foundation is an example of an incentive-based policy that has triggered positive behavioral change. The programme rewards low-income households for purchasing fresh food and vegetables at farmers markets. A recent analysis of a follow up US Farm Bill pilot that extended the incentive programme to grocery stores found an average five percent increase in fruit and vegetable purchases in comparison to stores that are not part of the programme.

Research affirms that there is an increasing spectrum of businesses that are committed to improving their sustainability portfolio. However, the primary interest is improving within-business metrics against either an industry standard or an internal standard. There are currently very few businesses that question their entire business model by examining issues such as: ‘If the focus is on healthy and sustainable dietary patterns should my business exist in its current scale or scope?

The TMG/WWF report argues that tapping the transformational potential of TCA requires greater policy emphasis on the consumption (or demand side) of our food systems. Such a focus would seek to reduce the unintended consequences of "cheap food" by targeting our unhealthy and unsustainable diets, which are contributing to overconsumption and food waste, while also limiting access to adequate and nutritious food for all.

By allowing for integrated analyses of our food systems, TCA also offers a useful organizing tool for building 'alliances of change' to transform the food sector.

For example, national dietary guidelines are in place for over 100 countries, but only a few consider environmental sustainability, social welfare, or right to food questions. Data and analysis gathered through TCA studies can provide a coherent message and an organizing framework for diverse stakeholders and interest groups.

The event was organized under the auspices of the Future Food Together project, which is part of the International Climate Initiative (IKI) supported by Germany’s Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature and Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMU).

'The Doors are Open - We Farmers are Ready'

An Interview with Shamika Mone (INOFO) and Elizabeth Nsimadala (EAFF)

At the UN Food Systems Summit, farmers organizations have been represented on the international stage for the first time ever. Two representatives talk about bridging personal aspirations with the representation of regional needs and international negotiations.

A traditional Namibian meal featuring oshifima, roasted meat, and beans is displayed on woven baskets with a colorful cloth.

African Nutrition - 'Try It at Home'!

A Video Series by Agribusiness TV and GIZ

Share in the taste of African Nutrition – Try it at home! The mini-series showcases traditional, nutritious dishes across the African continent.

Two workers wearing masks fill large sacks with grain in an outdoor storage area.

The lessons learned from the last food crisis - A solution?

A Contribution by Agnes Kalibata

Inadequacy and fragility of food systems becomes more apparent with every food crisis. The question we must answer is “Where do we go from here?”

Two hands hold a bowl filled with diverse African root vegetables and corn on a dirt background.

What does it take to truly shift the paradigm on food systems?

An Interview by GDPRD

Why are short- and long-term responses important to address current and future global crises? Sebastian Lesch, Head of the Agriculture Division at the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), provides answers to these and other questions in an interview with the Global Donor Platform for Rural Development (GDPRD) and explains how much Germany welcomes all donors pulling together and acting in concert.

A worker in a green shirt and red hard hat operates a control panel in a rural industrial setting.

"Human capital will play a pivotal role in the transformation of African economies"

A contribution by Ben Leyka

The potential the African food sector holds is still far too strongly associated with the continent’s natural resources, Ben Leyka maintains. He seeks to change this with the African Agri Council.

Four people engage in a panel discussion at a podium, with a backdrop featuring agricultural imagery.

And a semicolon in the middle

A contribution by Jan Rübel

After a two-year break due to Corona, the doors of the International Green Week (IGW) in Berlin are opening again. From 20th to 29th January, visitors from all over the world can discover, marvel and taste the produce. But the event is not only feasting and fun. The BMZ stand asks questions about where food comes from & where it goes – and in the process becomes a crash test for many habits.

How to govern food systems transformation

A contribution by Daniel Montas and Jan Rübel

The transformation of food systems is regarded as the new magic code, but effective strategies are lacking. A new group of experts discussed the prerequisites for efficiently managing this process. The experts representing politics, youth, civil society, farmers' organizations, private sector, and academia unanimously concluded: transformation is possible, but it needs a strong drive from within.

Golden hay bales rest on a sunlit stubble field under a clear blue sky, evoking a tranquil rural landscape.

How farmers are facing the crisis

A contribution by GIZ

Russia's war against Ukraine and its impact on food, energy and fertiliser prices is worrying farmers all over the world. Young farmers, farmer organisations and politicians from Kenya, Chad and Ukraine tell their stories and what keeps them in agriculture.

A group of children with backpacks attentively listen to a woman explaining the chocolate-making process at an educational fair.

When sustainability becomes part of the curriculum

A contribution by Jan Rübel

During the trade Grüne Woche, school classes visited the BMZ (German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development), Brot für die Welt and Misereor. Each class spends one hour at their stand to learn about the global challenges posed by food systems. A review by Jan Rübel.

A tugboat guides a massive cargo ship loaded with colorful containers across the ocean, symbolizing David vs Goliath.

David versus Goliath: Consequences of mainstream agricultural export commodities and niche products

An Artikel by the Initiative for Sustainable Agricultural Supply Chains (INA)

A study published by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) examines the differences between globally traded agricultural commodities and domestic niche products in terms of economic, environmental and social impact on the region of origin. The results provide new evidence to make supply chains more sustainable.

Visitors enter the Nürnberg Messe 2022 for the BioFach22 event, showcasing organic food and natural beauty products.

Organic certification as an opportunity for developing and emerging countries

An Interview with Dr. Julia Bellinghausen (IPD)

The Import Promotion Desk (IPD) accompanied organic producers from developing and emerging countries to Biofach. In an interview, Dr Julia Bellinghausen, head of the IPD, explains the importance of organic certification in export promotion.

The chart shows the FAO food price index from 2005 to 2022, highlighting crises and a rise during COVID-19.

COVID-19 and Rising Food Prices: What’s Really Happening?

A Contribution by IFPRI

Taking a look at the data (as of February 11th 2022) what the current price hike means for world hunger and what can be done to prevent from another food crisis.

Hands hold an open cacao pod displaying the white seeds inside, highlighting the raw chocolate source. | © GIZ Ute Grabowsky

Côte d’Ivoire: Sweet Temptation without a Bitter Taste

A Story by GIZ

Until Easter 2022, GIZ publishes a new episode every fortnight introducing people who are committed to fair and sustainable cocoa in Côte d'Ivoire and Germany.

Flags of various countries flutter outside the COP27 venue against a clear blue sky.

COP27: Agri-food systems in the focus of the climate discussion

Stephanie Heiland, Project Manager at Sector Project Agriculture and part of this year’s Observer Delegation of the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) at COP27, shares her insights on the role of agriculture and food systems at the climate conference. Among other things, she reports from GIZ’s COP27 side event ‘Climate resilient agriculture and food systems in times of multiple crises and fragility’.

Aerial view of two people guiding oxen across a red, plowed field, highlighting agrifood transformation themes.

BMZ releases video on the transformation of agricultural and food systems

A contribution by GIZ

The Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) has released a video on the transformation of agricultural and food systems. In the video, Federal Minister Svenja Schulze also speaks about the urgent need to combat global hunger and contribute to resilient agricultural and food systems.

Aerial view of a lush agricultural landscape in Ethiopia, showcasing neatly arranged crops and a small building. | © GIZ

The Key to Transforming Food Systems Lies in Inclusive Governance

A Contribution by Daniel Montas

Experts from Burkina Faso, Cambodia, Ethiopia, India, Kenya and Malawi came together to discuss inclusive governance in a workshop entitled "Inclusive Governance of Food Systems Transformation". Daniel Montas, TMG Research, on the findings.

Four individuals stand together, holding and presenting a large policy document at a "Partners for Change" event.

Partners for change - Network meeting on transforming agricultural and food systems

A Contribution by the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development

At the network meeting "Partners for change - Transformation to a food secure, resilient and sustainable future", almost 250 participants from over 20 countries came together to exchange experiences and ideas on the transformation of agricultural and food systems. The final product, joint recommendations to transform agricultural and food systems, can now be read online.

A large audience attentively listens to a panel discussion on "Partnering for Change" in an elegant, arched venue.

Just change starts with listening

A Contribution by Jan Rübel

Halfway through the 2030 Agenda, the BMZ invited participants to a network meeting entitled "Partners for change - Transformation to a food secure, resilient and sustainable future". Experts from around the world developed recommendations in a consultation process and then consolidated them in Berlin. A site visit.

An illustrated map showcases diverse agricultural and food-related activities on a vibrant island setting.

The Agri-Food Map: An interactive map to explore sustainable agri-food systems

A Contribution by GIZ

The complex interrelationships of the sustainable transformation of agricultural and food systems are not always easy to understand - the Agri-Food Map, an interactive online app, makes the comprehensive relations accessible by providing a wide range of comprehensibly prepared information.

Attendees engage in a discussion around a large table at the UNFSS event, with colorful decor adorning the wooden walls.

The UNFSS Stocktaking – shadow and a little light

A Contribution by Harry Hoffmann (TMG) & Nathalie Demel (WHH)

At the halfway mark of the 2030 Agenda and two years after the UN Food System Summit 2021, a stocktaking moment was held in Rome to analyze the progress of countries on the commitments to action in transforming food systems. Dr Harry Hoffmann, TMG Think Tank, and Nathalie Demel, Welthungerhilfe, were on site and take stock as well.

A woman feeds sheep in a rustic pen while a man observes during an agricultural event. | © Apollo Habtamu ILRI

Climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies for the African livestock sector

A Contribution by ILRI and GIZ

The production of animal-source foods is becoming increasingly difficult due to the impact of climate change on the livestock sector in Africa. Though, Livestock make a crucial contribution to food security in Africa. Three papers by the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), GIZ, ILRI and World Bank analyze, how Africas future livestock sector can look like.

Vibrant Abidjan market scene with vendors balancing colorful fruits on their heads, creating a lively atmosphere. | © GIZ Toni-Kaatz-Dubberke

Young farmers as custodians of transformation

An Interview with William Madudike

How can rural economies become viable and modern? William Madudike, youth representative of the Zimbabwe Farmers Union (ZFU) and a potato farmer himself, examines this question. He argues that the whole rural economy and actors from producers to consumers need to be considered. An interview on the initiative role of youth.

Aerial view of a Madagascar landscape showing a patchwork of fields and a dirt road dividing dry and green areas.

Towards Climate Justice: Securing Women’s Land Rights for a Resilient Tomorrow

A Contribution by TMG

In the midst of global climate discussions, a resounding call emerges: Women's land rights must be the cornerstone of our climate actions. They're not just pieces of the puzzle; they form the foundation for true climate resilience. TMG Think Tank for Sustainability reports from the first African Climate Summit.

A smartphone displays the "Food 4 Transformation" podcast screen, flanked by wireless earbuds on a wooden surface.

New Podcast – Out now!

A Podcast by Food4Transformation

In a world facing crises – from pandemics, armed conflicts, and climate change – how do we ensure everyone has enough food within planetary boundaries? A new podcast by Food4Transformation discover solutions talking to government officials, scientists, NGOs and farmers around the world.

Learning from Each Other

An Interview with Dr. Jacqueline Mkindi

Partnerships are needed to face the multiple shocks for food systems. This is what Dr. Jacqueline Mkindi, president of the Agriculture Council Tanzania (ACT) and CEO of the Tanzanian Horticulture Association (TAHA) states.

The common thread is the importance of collaboration

A contribution by Scaling Up Nutrition Movement

It takes the joint efforts of diverse actors to achieve a transformative impact on the global food system. Barbara Rehbinder, Scaling Up Nutrition Movement (SUN), discusses four people-centred principles to get closer to this goal.

A smiling woman in a green shawl raises her hand enthusiastically during a conference meeting.

Shu Wen Ng, the Clear-Sighted

An Interview with Shu Wen Ng

Shu Wen Ng is a health economist. She knows what is best suited to go on a plate. But how can this be achieved on a mass scale in countries with lower incomes? "The solutions to gett there already exist," she says, "but what is often missing is courageous leadership to implement them."

Reforming agricultural policies to sustainably transform food systems

A Contribution by IFPRI

Global food systems are confronted with multiple stresses. It is more urgent than ever to make them more resilient, healthier and more sustainable. A key tool in such a transformation is reforming agricultural policies and repurposing agricultural support, as discussed in an online seminar co-organised by the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI).

A diverse group of individuals gathers at the P4C Network Meeting focused on sustainable food transformation.

Sustainable and Resilient Agri-Food Systems in Motion – We’re on it!

A Contribution by Kah Walla

This year's network meeting of the Partners for Change (P4C), a network of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), took place in Nairobi, Kenya, on 26 and 27 June 2024. Kah Walla, moderator of the event and CEO of Strategies!, gives an insight into the key findings and learnings.

A person in a yellow shirt holds a tray of eggs, smiling inside a chicken coop filled with hens.

Cultivating tomorrow

A Contribution by GIZ

Africa’s largest youth generation has the potential to transform agriculture sustainably. Young entrepreneurs like Febelsa in Mozambique are building agricultural businesses that fuel local growth.

Bioeconomy: Ready for a Joint Take-Off?

A Contribution by GIZ

The bioeconomy movement is fundamentally changing agriculture and food production: through innovative ideas, environmentally friendly approaches and the realization that we need to work together globally to ensure that change truly benefits everyone. At this years’ German Forum for Food and Agriculture (GFFA), the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) focused on this topic.

A woman at a trade show proudly displays organic food products in front of a booth showcasing diverse packaged goods.

BIOFACH as a game changer for organic producers

A Contribution by Claudia Jordan

In 2025, GIZ and the Import Promotion Desk (IPD) celebrate ten years of successful cooperation. With their joint stand at BIOFACH trade fair in Nuremberg, they were able to introduce over 300 organic companies of partner countries to the European market. And the journey continues – despite challenges on the global market.

A diverse group of professionals gather for a conference, posing together in a spacious lobby surrounded by greenery.

Adapted financial services – a key to transformation

A Contribution by GIZ

In March, delegations from nine partner countries met in Berlin at the Partner Conference Scaling Access to Finance for Agripreneurs. Alongside AUDA-NEPAD, IFAD, BMZ, GIZ, and others, around 100 participants worked on practical solutions to support financial inclusion in agricultural transformation and hand over their conclusions to the AU's Kampala CAADP process.

A person writes on orange cards during the Partners for Change Conference, surrounded by colorful stationery and notes.

Everything is nothing without Soils

A Contribution by Jan Rübel

The international soil conference ‘Partners for Change - SOILutions for a Food Secure, Resilient, and Sustainable Future’ brought together almost 150 different stakeholders in Berlin from 20 to 22 May. Its aim: to take stock of existing conservation programmes and pave the way for the future.

A group of five smiling individuals stands in a bakery, showcasing freshly baked goods on metal racks.

With the power of fried bread

A contribution of Jan Rübel and Fabio Rappenecker

With a simple but effective idea to combat malnutrition: in Nairobi, Fabio Rappenecker and his start-up TenX Nutrition produce mandazi, which become a real power biscuit thanks to added micronutrients. The aim is to strengthen food security through local, affordable and healthy food.

Financing Agrifood Systems for People, Planet and Prosperity

A Contribution by Global Donor Platform for Rural Development

The Global Donor Platform for Rural Development has recently published a new White Paper titled “Financing Agrifood Systems for People, Planet and Prosperity.” It outlines a practical agenda to unlock the capital, partnerships, and innovation required to drive change at scale.

Fishermen in Bangladesh skillfully handle large fishing nets under a clear sky. | © GIZ Ranak Martin

A Menu of Solutions

A Conversation with Shakuntala Thilsted & Andreas Schaumayer

On the sidelines of the UN Ocean Conference (UNOC 2025), Andreas Schaumayer, Head of Division at the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), and Shakuntala Thilsted, Senior Nutrition Expert at CGIAR, discussed the crucial role of aquatic foods in nutrition, livelihoods, and climate resilience.

Elevating Soil Health for a Sustainable Future

A Contribution by Kah Walla

In May, this year's "Partners for Change – SOILutions for a Food Secure, Resilient, and Sustainable Future" conference took place. Kah Walla, Moderator of the Conference and Director of Strategies!, summarises the discussions and declares that healthy soils are not just the foundation of agriculture, but the cornerstone of a resilient, equitable, and climate-smart future.

Children sort fish on the ground while a woman carries a blue bucket on her head in a lush outdoor setting. | © F4F GIZ Zambia

Let Me Tell You: How Zambia Uses Comics and Animation to Inspire Healthy Eating

By Jana Anouk Mansour

As part of the “Let Me Tell You” series, children across Zambia are discovering fun stories that teach the importance of good food and healthy habits such as fish. Let’s dive into one of these tales together…

A person holds a smartphone displaying the Maano virtual farmers' market app, with two people smiling in the background.

Ebay Against Hunger - How an App Supports Crop Sale of Rural Small Holders in Zambia

Small holders around the world are often forced to sell their harvests below market value due to a lack of market and pricing information. A new app by the UN World Food Programme (WFP) is going to change this.

A project of WFP

A smiling worker in a green uniform takes notes beside stacked delivery boxes labeled "Bring" in a storage area.

Silicon Valley for Africa’s agricultural start-ups

A contribution by Michel Bernhardt (GIZ)

The project “Scaling digital agriculture innovations through start-ups” (SAIS) supports Africans going into business in the agricultural and food sector in scaling their digital innovations and thus reaching out to a larger number of users.

Women joyfully sell tomatoes and vegetables at a vibrant market stall, highlighted by a striking red and blue overlay.

How can the private sector prevent food loss and waste?

An interview with David Brand (GIZ)

From a circular food system in Rwanda to functioning cooled transports in Kenya: The lab of tomorrow addresses development challenges such as preventing food loss and waste

Illustration highlighting six innovations combating climate change with images of plants, buildings, and renewable energy symbols.

City, Country, Sea: 6 Innovations in the Fight Against Climate Change

A listicle for climate-neutral agriculture

Vertically growing plants, magnetic cotton. Hairy leftovers fertilizing fields, tractors running on algae? These six innovations could lead agriculture’s next Green Revolution!

The image features "Innovate 2030" with a focus on "climate smart and sustainable cities" for SDG 11.

Innovate2030: Digital Ideas against Urban Climate Change

A Call by BMZ and Partners

Innovate2030 is looking for creative people from around the world to develop smart and innovative solutions against climate change in cities. Initiated by the Make IT-Alliance.

"Save the date for ICT for Ag 2022, highlighted with a sprouting plant, scheduled for March 9-10 on a vibrant blue background."

ICTforAg 2022: Conference

An Initiative by GIZ Fond i4Ag

In March 2022, the virtual conference ICTforAg summons leading actors in the agrartechnology and food sector from low- and middle-income countries to exchange ideas advancing resilience, nutrition and agriculture-led growth.

Digitalization: The Driving Force in the Future of Agriculture?

A Contribution by GIZ

At the ICTforAg conference in March 2022, the digital agriculture community exchanged on the challenges and opportunities associated with the next green revolution.

Save the date announcement for the Innovation Challenge 2021 finals on May 17th, 2022, focusing on agroecology advisory.

Innovation Challenge Finals

An event organised by GIZ on behalf of BMZ

The finals of the Innovation Challenge “Advisory for Agroecology” took place on 17 May - 2022 featuring six innovations in advisory that provided the basis for a discussion on how to bridge the gap between science and practice.

Digital participation in the agrofinance sector: rural development and women's inclusion

A Contribution by GIZ

Data security, financing, the automation of loans and the use of alternative data - the digitalisation of financial services in the agricultural sector has many facets, which an international conference with representatives of the agricultural finance sector in Zambia addressed. But how does the digitalisation of financial services contribute to rural development and the inclusion of women?

Two men in a lush field discuss data sovereignty, holding papers amidst workers gathering crops.

Empowering farmers to control their own data

A contribution by GIZ

A new study on the digitalisation of agriculture puts farmers back at the centre of their own sector, identifies market gaps and gives recommendations on how to support relevant actors.

Women in colorful attire joyfully thresh grain in a sunny, rural field, showcasing agricultural teamwork and tradition.

The goals of transformation should leave no one behind

An Interview with Mareike Haase and Stig Tanzmann

Four interviews kick off the relaunch under the new name „Food4Transformation“, asking the same questions from different perspectives. Mareike Haase and Stig Tanzmann from Brot für die Welt explain why the right to food, inclusivity, agroecology and food sovereignty are the central levers for a successful transformation.

Young green seedlings sprout from the soil, showcasing new growth in a lush garden setting.

Agricultural policy belongs in prime time

An interview with Dr. Julia Köhn

Four interviews kick off the relaunch under the new name „Food4Transformation“, asking the same questions from different perspectives. Dr Julia Köhn, Chair of the German AgriFood Society, points out in the interview: Only if innovation and transformation are profitable in the medium term can they close the food gap in the long term.

A goat grazes in a lush field near a charming house surrounded by palm trees under a clear sky.

How a Nigerian fintech wants to secure 1 billion US dollars for farms

An Interview with Blessing Mene

Small farmers often have a hard time getting financing. An app in Nigeria wants to change that: Founder Blessing Mene about what his app offers - and about the opportunities and limitations of agricultural financing.

A person drives a blue tractor through a lush cornfield on a sunny day.

Farmers reap big from Climate Smart Farming

An Article by Angeline Ochieng & Victor Raballa

Journalists Angeline Ochieng and Victor Raballa visited Ms Bilha Munyole, a Kenyan farmer in Kimilili, Bungoma County, on her maize plantation. About the important role of mechanisation in climate-smart agriculture and in building resilience to the impacts of climate change.

A woman in a vibrant patterned dress smiles warmly outdoors, surrounded by lush greenery.

Together #AgainstHunger and #AgainstPoverty

A Campaign of the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development

In light of World Food Day, the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development launched a campaign: Three women from Kenya, Benin and Ecuador share how their ideas and local solutions are fighting hunger and poverty.

A smiling farmer in Togo holds a mobile phone, standing in lush greenery with a hoe resting on her shoulder.

Agricultural Financing – from a broader Perspective

A Contribution by GIZ

In Sub-Saharan Africa, not all financial institutions (FIs) have access to knowledge about how to implement processes to enhance rural financial inclusion. The pan-African Community of Practice (CoP) plays a pivotal role in supporting these institutions along this transformative journey.

A smiling young man in a green shirt holds two jars of food products in front of a wooden and metal gate.

Agriculture is more than Culture or Tradition

A Contribution by Simeon Kambalame

How can agriculture engage more young people in rural areas? Advocacy and education campaigns can play an important role here. Simeon Kambalame, Timveni Child and Youth Media Organisation, has launched such a campaign in Malawi.

Tall trees with lush green leaves form a canopy against the sky in a Vietnamese forest. | © GIZPhan Nhat Anh

From Coexistence to Collaboration

A Contribution by Initiative für nachhaltige Agrarlieferketten (INA)

The demand for sustainable products and supply chains is constantly increasing. DIASCA is an alliance that works on interoperability of digital solutions in agricultural supply chains through the development of open standards for forest monitoring, farm income and traceability.

A person is watering plants in a rural field with a metal watering can, surrounded by greenery and trees.

Circular Economy: From Innovation to Upscaling

A Contribution by the Project RUNRES

Recycling organic waste into soil amendments and animal feed through a transdisciplinary approach – this is what the RUNRES project, launched in four sub-Saharan African countries four years ago, seeks to achieve. Three of the project's scientists report.

Men in a classroom engage with virtual reality headsets for an immersive learning experience.

Cotton of the Future

A Contribution by GIZ

VR glasses are hardly a conventional tool in agriculture: for the past three years, they have been used in rural areas of Burkina Faso and Cameroon as a training tool for sustainable cotton cultivation.

Uprooting the Norm

A Contribution by GIZ

As a passionate social scientist and entrepreneur from Malawi, Ngabaghila Chatata knows that she can overcome any challenge. Her story stands out in a country faced with high unemployment, particularly in its rural areas. As the managing director of Thanthwe Farms, she has set out to inspire the next generation of young agripreneurs – proving that successful business starts with the right mindset, not only capital.

Improving The World, Sip by Sip

A Conversation with Maura Oerding

Maura Oerding has a mission: With the specialty coffee Angelique's Finest, she not only wants to enter new markets but also revolutionize the coffee industry. Her recipe for success? Empowering women from Rwanda and Uganda from cultivation to marketing. Oerding’s goal: quality, fairness, and self-determination in every bean.

(c) Christoph Püschner/Brot für die Welt — Mali / Bamako, Dez. 2017: eine Selbsthilfegruppe von zurückgekehrten Migrantinnen, die sich gegenseitig bei der Integration unterstützen.

"Pandemic increases violence against women"

Interview with Léa Rouanet

African countries still face huge gender gaps in terms of access to work and capital. What are the consequences of Corona for women in Africa? Jan Rübel interviewed Léa Rouanet on lockdowns and gender-based violence. The economist works at the Africa Gender Innovation Lab of the World Bank.

A smiling farmer stands proudly in front of a red tractor in a freshly plowed field under a clear blue sky.

How much private investment is the agricultural sector able to bear?

By Pedro Morazán

Small farmers in developing countries must modernise their farming methods, but poorly understood reforms could exacerbate poverty instead of alleviating it.

Three workers in protective gear are handling soil and shovels at a sanitation site, focusing on waste management.

No dirty dealing

Von Marlis Lindecke

Shit Business is Serious Business: A successful cooperation between research and the private sector.

The Big Bang is possible

Interview with Joachim von Braun

Happy youngsters in rural areas, green development and the connection to the digital age – professor Joachim von Braun believes in this future sceneraio for Africa. For three decades the agricultural scienties has been researching how politics can create prosperty on the continent.

'It has never been more possible'

Interview with Carin Smaller (Ceres2030)

Over a period of two years, the Ceres2030 team spent researching answers to the questions of how much it will how much it will cost to realize SDG 2 and where that money should be spent most effectively. IISD Senior Advisor and Ceres2030 Co-director Carin Smaller about small farmers, machine learning and women empowerment.

Is the international community still on track in the fight against hunger?

Interview with Miriam Wiemers (Welthungerhilfe)

The Global Hunger Index (GHI) 2020 shows that the world is not on track to meet the international goal of “zero hunger by 2030”. If we continue at our current speed, around 37 countries will not even have reached a low hunger level by 2030.

"Agricultural research unties the Gordian knot"

Interview with World Bank Vice President Voegele

The CGIAR agricultural research organization is systematically repositioning itself. We spoke with Juergen Voegele, Vice President for Sustainable Development at the World Bank, about progress to date - and discuss what needs to be done collectively to stop global hunger in ten years.

A large video wall displays numerous participants in a virtual conference with a "goes virtual" banner prominently featured.

GFFA 2021 focussed on climate and COVID-19

A report by David Sahay (Zeitenspiegel)

110 speakers from 120 countries met virtually at the Global Forum for Food and Agriculture (GFFA) to discuss the challenges to global food supply. They asked the question: How can food systems support the health of people and the planet?

“We have to prepare for the unexpected”

Interview with Dr Maria Flachsbarth (BMZ)

In August, Germany’s development ministry set up a division concentrating on One Health topics. Parliamentary State Secretary Maria Flachsbarth on knowledge gaps at the human-animal-environmental interface, the link between One Health and food security, and lessons learnt from previous pandemics.

A person with curly hair is partially obscured by a large play button icon, suggesting a video is ready to be played.

Video: 4 Questions to Claudia Makdristo

A video clip by Seedstars

Startups are booming in African agriculture. What are the current trend and challenges – and can other regions benefit from innovative approaches? A Video-Interview with Claudia Makadristo, Regional Manager of Seedstars

A man stands in a muddy field holding rice plants, addressing a group gathered along the edge.

Turning many into one: CGIAR network restructures

A contribution by Jan Rübel

International agricultural research is responding to new challenges: Their advisory group is undergoing a fundamental reform process and unites knowledge, partnerships and physical assets into OneCGIAR.

Farmers energetically harvest and toss potatoes in a vibrant field, showcasing teamwork and productivity.

"Farmers are smart"

Interview with Maria Andrade

From the lab to the masses: Maria Andrade bred varieties of biofortified sweet potatoes which are now widely used all over the continent. She sets her hope on the transformation of African agriculture.

Leveraging investment impacts

A contribution by Heike Baumüller, Christine Husmann, Julia Machovsky-Smid, Oliver Kirui, Justice Tambo

Any initiative whose aim is to reduce poverty in Africa should focus first on agriculture. But what kind of investment has the greatest impact? The use of scientific criteria provides some answers.

Small-scale farmers’ responses to COVID-19 related restrictions

A study by SLE

The lockdown due to COVID-19 hit the economy hard - including agriculture in particular with its supply chains and sales markets. What creative coping strategies have those affected found? The Seminar for Rural Development has begun a research study on th

A vibrant quinoa plant with pink-red flowers stands tall in a sunlit field, surrounded by lush greenery.

"We must mobilise all available resources"

A contribution by Ismahane Elouafi (ICBA)

Freshwater deficits are affecting more and more people throughout the world. In order to counter this, our global food system will have to change, our author maintains. A case for more research on alternative crops and smart water solutions.

A woman in a vibrant outfit inspects grains at a bustling market stall filled with colorful baskets of produce.

"Nutrition is a human right"

Interview with Joe DeVries (AGRA)

Joe DeVries is a breeder – and Vice President of AGRA (Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa). What are the chances and risks of a ’green revolution‘ in Africa? A discourse between Jan Rübel and him about productivity, needs, and paternalism.

ONE WORLD no hunger - Meet the people driving rural transformation

A program by the partners of the special initiative One World no Hunger

The future is rural. On September 24, meet leaders and visionaries from Africa and South Asia who will enter into dialogue with european key actors.

Join uns here to meet the people.

Farmers operate a blue and red tractor tilling dry soil in a dusty field under clear skies.

Continent in an uptrend

A report by Dr. Agnes Kalibata (AGRA)

Partnering for Africa’s Century: Innovation and Leadership as Drivers of Growth and Productivity in Rural Areas

A new attempt at Africa's industrialization?

A contribution by Helmut Asche

Afrika is about ready. There are promising approaches for a sustainable industrialization. However, the path poses challenges to the continent.

A modern glass and metal building with a unique curved design is illuminated at dusk along a landscaped pathway.

A New Mindset to Reform Agriresearch

A Contribution by Lennart Woltering (CGIAR)

In context of the 15th CGIAR System Council Meeting, Lennart Woltering shares his assessment of the ongoing One CGIAR reform process.

People are harvesting seaweed in a rural aquatic landscape with wooden stakes protruding from the water. | © GIZ

Diversity Is the Fundamental Principle to Use

An Interview with Shakuntala Thilsted

A conversation with aquatic researcher Shakuntala Thilsted on the long-neglected nutrition benefits of aquatic diets and the empowering qualities of a sustainable aqua-food systems transformation.

Delegates gather in a large hall for the UNCCD COP15 conference in Abidjan, engaging in discussions on climate action.

For a just transition to a sustainable planet we must secure land rights

A contribution by TMG

At the UNCCD COP15, the Töpfer Müller Gaßner Think Tank (TMG) hosted four side events. The agenda of the kick-off event included discussions for the Human Rights and Land Navigator.

Golden wheat stalks sway gently in a sunlit rural field, symbolizing abundant harvest and natural beauty.

Food security is more than production volumes and high yields

A Contribution by Adrian Muller, Catherine Pfeifer and Jürn Sanders (FiBL)

Taking Biodiversity Focus Areas under production or abandoning lower yielding, more extensive production systems is the wrong approach to mastering the looming global food crisis, say the authors of the Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL).

Rows of young rice plants grow in a well-organized pattern, showcasing the SRI method in a lush green field.

The Rice Sector in West Africa: A Political Challenge

New insights on trade and value addition in the rice sector in West Africa

Low import tariffs, smuggling activities, unpredictable tax exemptions and weak enforcement of food safety standards: The potential of local rice value chains is undermined in West African countries.

5 Questions for Jann Lay: What is Corona doing to the economy?

Interview with Jann Lay (GIGA)

The Corona pandemic is hitting economies around the world very hard - but developments in African countries are quite diverse. There are different speeds, resiliences and vulnerabilities. What are the reasons for this? Apl. Prof. Jann Lay of the GIGA Institute provides answers.

A farmer irrigates a lush green field with a hose under a clear sky in Tanzania, utilizing solar irrigation techniques.

Water may offer the only chance

Interview with Caroline Milow and Ramon Brentführer

Groundwater resources remain dormant in the soil of African regions. Where does it make sense to use them – and where does overexploitation of nature begin? Caroline Milow (GIZ) and Ramon Brentführer (BGR) talk about potentials in the future and lessons from the past.

Young corn plants thrive in a sunlit field near Kisumu, Kenya, showcasing vibrant green growth.

The Insect Whisperer

A Contribution by Jan Rübel and Zain Jafar

Agriculture is coming under pressure worldwide: bacteria, viruses and insects are causing problems for crops. In Palestine, Dr. Rana Samara from the Palestinian Academy of Science and Technology is researching solutions to the problem. And she finds them in nature itself.

What is Our Food Worth to Us?

By TMG – ThinkTankforSustainabilty

Getting our Food Systems Back on Track

Carrots and Sticks

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