As the world faces increasing challenges, CIMMYT remains a global leader in agricultural innovation. In 2023, we have seen how science and development can address food insecurity, climate change, and disruptions to global food supplies. These contributions to a healthier, more just world are highlighted in CIMMYT’s 2023 Annual Report, which is full of inspiring stories reporting on ground-breaking discoveries and the impactful scaling initiatives which are transforming food systems in the Global South.
CIMMYT’s unique strengths are now more important than ever, to deliver solutions that benefit millions of smallholder farmers, and consumers. Together, CIMMYT scientists and partners are developing climate-resilient crops, techniques for irrigation, and conservation agriculture, that boost yields while adapting farming systems to climate change.
A highlight of 2023 was the launch of our 2030 Strategy, “Science and Innovation for a Food and Nutrition Secure World.” This ambitious vision is already guiding CIMMYT’s progress, with world-class scientific discovery, transforming agrifood systems to feed the world within our planetary boundaries.
I am particularly impressed by CIMMYT’s advances in these key areas:
Climate-Resilient Agriculture: Developing crops for the newer, harsher climate. CIMMYT is the world leader in breeding disease-resistant maize and heat-adapted wheat, for example.
Nutrition, Health, and Food Security: Improving the nutritional value of our crops, for healthier diets. CIMMYT is overcoming the hidden hunger of micronutrient deficiency with crops bred to be naturally high in minerals and vitamins.
Digital Transformation: Technology for smarter farming. CIMMYT is using Big Data in many new ways, from forecasting crop disease outbreaks before they happen, to creating policy tools to cut greenhouse gas emissions cost-effectively.
Gender Equity and Social Inclusion: Empowering women and youth to play a greater role in agriculture, and a more equitable one. For example, female farmers across the continent are testing
the maize varieties for tomorrow. Backbreaking farm work is becoming a thing of the past with smaller machinery, designed to fit women’s needs.
I express my sincere gratitude to our dedicated staff, generous donors, and our valued partners for their continued support. Together, we are making a real difference to improve the lives of millions
of people around the world. Each day we strive to eradicate food insecurity around the globe with the ambition to then improve livelihoods for all.
As we look to the future, I am confident that CIMMYT will continue to be a global thought leader in agricultural research and development. With innovation, teamwork, creativity, and dedication, CIMMYT stays true to its mission in these challenging times, creating a sustainable, and food-secure future for everyone.
