The Role of Research in Enhancing Food Security and Improving Livelihoods in Dry Areas

Countries in dry areas, which cover 41% of the world's surface, face great challenges to provide their populations with sustainable food and nutrition security. The magnitude of food insecurity is being exacerbated by other factors including climate change, degraded natural resources and population growth. Increases in agricultural production will enhance food security and it is widely accepted that the intensification of food production systems is the primary means. Agricultural research plays a vital role in making this happen. ICARDA, in close collaboration with its national and international partners, is engaged in a range of 'research for development' projects with countries that have dry lands production systems. Many of these partnerships have significantly enhanced agricultural productivity per unit of land and water. To continually enhance food security and tackle the global challenges of hunger, malnutrition, and poverty it is necessary to advance agricultural science, technology and innovation - with a specific focus on better natural resource management and economic growth. A parallel priority to achieve this goal is the enhancement of people's capacity to deliver high quality research. To respond effectively to these challenges is far beyond the expected capacity of any single institution or country, therefore, research for development partnerships are a key factor in building a food-secure future.