The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), through the International System for Agricultural Science and Technology (AGRIS), highlights the transformative impact of collaboration between its South Africa Country Office and AGRIS. This cooperation has driven a significant increase in active data providers and records, bolstering South Africa’s role in global agricultural knowledge-sharing.

In 2023, South Africa had only two active data providers and 22,360 records. By 2024, this collaboration has expanded the network to 14 active data providers and over 61,000 records—a remarkable leap reflecting the combined efforts of FAO and AGRIS to promote knowledge-sharing and research accessibility.

Mr. Babagana Ahmadu, South Africa FAO Representative, during the introduction to the AGRIS webinar in May, delivered the opening remarks emphasizing the importance of AGRIS as a platform for agricultural research and knowledge exchange. He highlighted FAO’s commitment to empowering stakeholders in South Africa and fostering collaboration beyond its borders to advance sustainable development.

This expanded engagement underscores the vital role of collaboration between FAO South Africa and AGRIS in strengthening the global repository of agricultural knowledge. It sets a benchmark for other countries in leveraging partnerships to address pressing challenges in agriculture, sustainability, and food security.