Tuesday 8 April 2008

Advancing Agriculture in Developing Countries through Knowledge and Innovation

FARA participated at the International Conference on Knowledge and Innovation in Agriculture organised by IFPRI April 7-9, 2008, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

This conference aimed:


  • to provide a forum for the exchange of these ideas and experiences on knowledge and innovation systems among different innovation agents (including the public, private, and civil sectors);
  • to showcase methods and applications of successful experiences in knowledge and innovations;
  • and to identify areas for further research, advocacy, and cooperation.
The conference speakers, panels, and participants (close to 200 policymakers, researchers, and representatives from the private sector, farmers' organizations, and other civil society groups) explored the components that contribute to growth, whether through scientific research, innovative policies, or organizational partnerships.


  • One of the keynote speakers was Dr. Monty Jones who brought on 07/04 a Keynote speech on Using knowledge and innovation in pro-poor agricultural research.
  • Dr. ADEWALE ADEKUNLE was the CHAIR of Session Three on "Using Technical Knowledge and Innovation for Growth & Development – Future Issues"
  • FARA Board member Lucy Muchoki (African Natural Products) contributed to Session 4 with a speech on Knowledge and innovation for agricultural development—private sector contribution

Reference: Press Release IFPRI April 7, 2008 : International Conference to Discuss New Technologies, Innovations, and Knowledge to Improve Agriculture and Livelihoods

Statements: IFPRI has posted on 26/06 on YouTube 11 video’s of which the intervention of Dr. Jones (22 minutes).

Dr. Monty Jones brought on 07/04 a Keynote speech on Using knowledge and innovation in pro-poor agricultural research.

Using knowledge and innovation in pro-poor agricultural researchMonty Jones, Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa. 21:51 minutes




Other interviews:

Opening Remarks Joachim von Braun, International Food Policy Research Institute. Advancing Agriculture in Developing Countries through Knowledge and Innovation.
17:59 minutes