The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is a agency of the United Nations dedicated to addressing global poverty and hunger by promoting rural development. Established in 1977, IFAD provides financial support and technical expertise to empower smallholder farms, improve food security and enhance the livelihoods of rural populations. By investing in rural economies, IFAD helps build sustainable, inclusive agricultural systems that transform communities. Delegates must collaborate to develop strategies to help rural communities overcome present day challenges like climate change.

Topics and Questions to Consider

Topic 1: Generation and Transfer of Agricultural Technology

Questions to Consider

1. How can IFAD facilitate the transfer of appropriate agricultural technologies to farmers in rural and resource-poor areas?

2. What are the most effective strategies for IFAD to promote inclusive technology transfer, ensuring marginalized groups benefit from agricultural innovations?

3. How can IFAD support the development of local innovation systems that focus on collaboration to create and adapt technologies that are suitable for local conditions?

4. What role can digital technologies play in the generation and transfer of agricultural knowledge, and how can IFAD ensure these tools are accessible?

5. How can IFAD leverage its partnerships with the private sector, research institutions, and other development organizations to enhance the generation and adoption of sustainable agricultural technologies in rural communities?

Topic 2: Building Resilience to Climate Change in Rural Communities

Questions to Consider

1. What are the most effective climate adaptation strategies that IFAD can promote to help smallholders increase their resilience to changing climate conditions?

2. How can IFAD integrate traditional knowledge and local practices with modern climate adaptation technologies to ensure that rural communities build resilience in a sustainable way?

3. What role can IFAD play in strengthening the capacity of local governments to support climate adaptation efforts in rural areas?

4. How can IFAD support access to climate-related finance and insurance mechanisms for smallholders, enabling them to protect their livelihoods against climate risks?

5. What are the key barriers that prevent rural communities from adopting climate-resilient practices, and how can IFAD overcome these challenges?