2024 IAEA Scientific Forum: How nuclear technology can help tackle global food insecurity
The 2024 International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Scientific Forum, with the theme Atoms4Food: Better Agriculture for a Better Life, commenced alongside the 68th IAEA General Conference with a focus on utilizing technology to combat global food insecurity. The opening session, which hosted an audience of over 260 participants including high-ranking speakers and ministers from various nations, was at full capacity.
During his opening speech, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi highlighted the Agency’s fact-based efforts in addressing the worldwide food crisis. He emphasized the need for practical solutions rather than mere speeches or policy documents, acknowledging the urgency of the issue.
“The issue of food security has reappeared with particular intensity … countries do not need more speeches or policy papers to be convinced of these problems. What they need is solutions,” Mr Grossi said, emphasizing the tangible impact and practical approach of the Atoms4Food initiative.
Mr. Grossi pointed out how nuclear techniques, such as the development of drought-resistant crops and enhancements in water management through isotopic hydrology, are aiding countries in confronting food security challenges. He underscored the tangible benefits of nuclear applications and technology in addressing these problems, stating that the Atoms4Food initiative aims to offer Member States a range of services to boost agricultural productivity and sustainability.
68th IAEA Conference: Minister Masuka shares insights on improving food security
Dr. Anxious Jongwe Masuka, the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development in Zimbabwe, highlighted various opportunities and insights that stakeholders could leverage to enhance food security. Speaking at the 68th International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Scientific Forum in Vienna, Austria, under the theme “Atoms4Food: Better Agriculture for a Better Life,” he participated in a panel discussion focused on fostering partnership building and mobilizing resources for increased and more sustainable impact.
Addressing the challenges posed by climate change, Dr. Masuka encouraged farmers and scientists to utilize nutrition breeding to develop crop varieties suitable for the drier conditions prevalent in Sub-Saharan Africa. He stressed the importance of enhancing water use efficiency, monitoring fertilizer use, and optimizing livestock management practices. In particular, he highlighted the opportunity to use the sterile insect technique to eliminate the tsetse fly, which poses a threat to livestock in various parts of Africa.
To combat food waste and losses, Dr. Masuka emphasized the need to improve the shelf life of perishable items and enhance trade practices. He underscored the significance of collaboration and cooperation among stakeholders, including international organizations like IAEA and FAO, to address common challenges and drive sustainable change in the agricultural sector. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of capacity building, especially in small countries like Zimbabwe, and the need for investments in education, resources, and infrastructure to support long-term food security goals.
In conclusion, Dr. Masuka called for a collective effort to increase productivity, reduce food losses, and promote sustainable dietary practices to ensure the well-being of future generations while living within the planet’s means.
Source: Jerry Akornor
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