Abuja: The African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) has called upon the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ) to ensure accurate reporting of science to bolster Africa’s efforts towards achieving food security and climate resilience. Dr. Canisius Kanangire, Executive Director of AATF, conveyed this message during the opening of the IFAJ World Congress of Agricultural Journalists 2025 in Kenya, highlighting the critical role of precise science communication.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr. Kanangire, through his representative Vitumbiko Chinoko, Project Manager at the Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB), AATF, emphasized that the intersection of technology, media, and innovation presents Africa with a remarkable chance to progress. The media, he noted, are pivotal in transforming how Africa perceives and adopts innovation, helping to disseminate scientific breakthroughs beyond research confines and into communities, thus inspiring and empowering them.
Dr. Kanangire explained that AATF has, over the years, established itself as a conduit between innovation and tangible impact, linking world-class research with the challenges faced by African smallholder farmers. Through strategic partnerships, AATF has facilitated equitable access to climate-smart and biotechnology solutions, improved seeds, and mechanization tools, impacting agricultural systems across 24 African nations. The mission remains focused on enhancing African farmers’ livelihoods through innovative agricultural technologies.
The AATF Executive Director outlined the foundation’s commitment to not only providing advanced technologies but also supporting policy development, strengthening institutions, and building the capacity of those dedicated to feeding Africa. The current narrative of AATF is one of collaboration and significant impact, with an ongoing expansion to reach more farmers and countries. The media is seen as an essential partner in accelerating agricultural transformation across the continent.
Dr. Kanangire assured that AATF will enhance journalists’ ability to understand and accurately report complex scientific and technological advancements. The foundation plans to use platforms like IFAJ to highlight its innovations, partnerships, and farmer success stories, fostering confidence in African science and technology. Additionally, AATF aims to co-create communication initiatives, including farmer-focused documentaries, policy dialogues, and digital storytelling, to amplify Africa’s progress towards food and nutrition security.
The IFAJ is a global organization representing over five thousand agricultural communicators from 60 countries, and the theme for the 2025 congress is ‘Unlocking the Agricultural Potential in the Cradle of Mankind.’