LLDC3 High-Level Special Event - Establishing Regional Agriculture Research Hubs (RARH) to Support LLDCs’ Agricultural Transformation
Awaza Conference Centre, Building 3-07.09
Evidence shows that growth in agriculture is two to four times more effective in reducing poverty than growth in other sectors. Increasing agricultural productivity can significantly improve rural incomes and generate decent employment, particularly for youth and women.
Digitalization, innovation, and improved research systems are key to unlocking this potential. By integrating new technologies such as precision agriculture, climate-smart techniques, and Artificial Intelligence (AI), LLDCs can modernize their agrifood systems and reduce dependency on imports.
Recognizing this, Member States have committed under the Awaza Programme of Action (APoA) to improving access to agricultural research and innovation, including the promotion of agroecological practices and sustainable technologies. The APoA also calls for the establishment of regional agricultural research centers tailored to the specific needs of LLDCs with a view to understanding structural impediments to agricultural productivity, promoting value-addition, supporting capacity building and facilitating improved agricultural practices.
The proposed Regional Agriculture Research Centers for LLDCs (RARC-LLDCs) can play a crucial role in achieving SDG2: Zero hunger. It has enormous potential to overcome existing challenges and leverage extraordinary opportunities in the agricultural sector of LLDCs, by leveraging existing agricultural research resources, integrating new technologies, including AI. It can ensure food security, improved nutrition, and sustainable agriculture for present and future generations.
