Tanzanian expert, Bhunu, joins UN sustainable agriculture body

Rome, Italy (PANA) - Tanzania's Sara Mbago-Bhunu, is among 22 renowned experts from across the Global South who are joining a major new Commission on Sustainable Agriculture Intensification (CoSAI).

She is currently the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) director for the Eastern and Southern Africa Division.

IFAD, part of the United Nations food and agriculture agencies based in Rome, Italy, announced her appointment on Thursday.

 IFAD said she joins scientists, experts and decision-makers serving as CoSAI Commissioners

The commissioners are tasked with collecting and assessing evidence to accelerate the urgently needed transformation of agriculture.

Initiated by the CGIAR Research Program on Water, Land and Ecosystems (WLE), CoSAI will work over 18 months to guide investments in agricultural innovation.

Mbago-Bhunu brings to the commission more than 20 years experience in the agricultural sector in Central, East and Southern Africa.

IFAD says progress towards feeding growing global populations while protecting the natural environment is behind schedule, according to a major recent study.

The study calls for a 'ruthless focus' on solutions.

It follows a growing body of evidence on the imperative need to improve food security and nutrition, protect biodiversity, reduce poverty and bolster climate resilience.

IFAD says in many parts of the Global South, demand for food is quickly rising, resources are limited and external shocks – such as from extreme climate events – have become increasingly common.

-0- PANA DJ/VAO 28May2020