Africans commit to advancing agricultural research

The fourth Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) has closed on a high note with participants adopting key resolutions for advancing agricultural research in Africa. The general assembly which took place in Sandton from 10 – 16 June 2007 was attended by 670 delegates who discussed issues under the theme of productivity and competitiveness of African agriculture in a global economy.

Lulama Xingwana, the minister for agriculture and land affairs, says the assembly provided critical information and knowledge on the opportunities and problems currently facing African agriculture.

Participants resolved to promote intra-African trade in food staples and international trade in high-value products. They will also attempt to maximise the impact of agricultural research and development and to develop adequate veterinary capacity and livestock disease surveillance and response systems.

The general assembly, which also coincided with the Africa Agriculture Science week and South Africa Day, will also attempt to mainstream indigenous science into agricultural research and development.