April 7-12, 2025
The Association of Agricultural Research Institutions in the Near East and North Africa (AARINENA) actively participated in the GNC Science Week, held in Nairobi, Kenya, as part of the global efforts to accelerate innovation and collaboration in agri-food systems. The event, organized by the Global Network of Champions (GNC) and aligned with CGIAR Science Week, brought together regional fora, research institutions, policymakers, and key stakeholders from across the globe.
Representing the Near East and North Africa region, AARINENA engaged in strategic dialogues and technical sessions that highlighted the importance of regional cooperation and innovation-driven development in agriculture. Dr. Rida Shibli, AARINENA’s Executive Secretary, contributed to the high-level discussions on food systems transformation, knowledge exchange, and climate-smart agriculture.
A key highlight was AARINENA’s participation in the GNC pre-launch meeting, where regional fora leaders discussed their unique contributions to strengthening National Agricultural Research Systems (NARS) and mobilizing champions for science-based solutions. AARINENA showcased successful case studies, including recent partnerships with universities and research centers in Jordan and North Africa, and presented opportunities for scaling best practices across member countries.
During the event, AARINENA emphasized the need for enhanced investment in agricultural research, youth and gender inclusion, and fostering digital transformation to achieve resilient and sustainable food systems in the NENA region.
GNC Science Week served as a powerful platform for forging new partnerships, exchanging innovations, and shaping a shared vision for the future of agricultural research. AARINENA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the goals of the Global Forum on Agricultural Research and Innovation (GFAiR) and driving collaborative efforts to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).