Enviro News Asia, Niger — The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) strengthened its long-standing partnership with the Government of Niger during a high-level visit aimed at accelerating climate-resilient agriculture and scaling proven innovations for dryland farming systems.
Over four decades of collaboration, ICRISAT has delivered climate-resilient crops and farmer-ready technologies in Niger, directly reaching more than 400,000 farmers and benefiting over 1.5 million people nationwide. These interventions have focused on improving productivity, strengthening resilience, and enhancing food security in the country’s semi-arid regions.
From 7 to 9 February 2026, ICRISAT hosted a Nigerien government delegation at its headquarters to review progress and identify future pathways for cooperation. The delegation was led by Elhadji Ousmane Mahaman, Niger’s Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, and included senior officials responsible for seed quality, agricultural engineering, and diplomatic relations.
During the visit, the delegation toured ICRISAT’s advanced research facilities and platforms, examining how data-driven science, crop genetics, field-based innovation, and capacity building can further strengthen dryland agriculture in Niger. Discussions emphasized scaling impact through improved seed systems, enhanced soil fertility and fertilizer management, and appropriate mechanization to boost productivity while maintaining resilience.
Himanshu Pathak, Director General of ICRISAT, highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership, noting that science-based collaboration has enabled Niger to adopt innovations that address intensifying climate risks while supporting inclusive agricultural growth across the Sahel.
A key outcome of the visit was the official launch of ICRISAT’s Niger Dossier, formally unveiled by Minister Mahaman. The dossier documents four decades of collaboration, including the release of biofortified crops, soil restoration through conservation agriculture, targeted fertilizer use, and strengthened national capacity in biological pest control.
Minister Mahaman reaffirmed Niger’s commitment to deepening collaboration with ICRISAT, emphasizing the value of science-based partnerships in advancing food sovereignty and climate resilience. He stated that the cooperation has delivered tangible benefits for smallholder farmers and strengthened national agricultural systems.
As part of the renewed partnership, the Niger delegation confirmed its support for ICRISAT’s genebank operations in Niger, which hold one of the most diverse germplasm collections in the Sahel, and pledged a contribution to strengthen its management and long-term sustainability.
The visit built on previous high-level engagements in 2025 and reinforced shared priorities to advance climate-smart agriculture, enhance national capacity, and accelerate progress toward food security in line with ICRISAT’s Strategic Plan 2025–2030. (*)
