IFPRI AND ICIMOD JOIN FORCES TO BOOST CLIMATE-SMART AGRICULTURE IN THE HINDU KUSH HIMALAYA

Leading food policy and mountain research organizations, IFPRI and ICIMOD, join forces to boost climate-smart agriculture in the Hindu Kush Himalaya

Kathmandu, 27 November: The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) and the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) yesterday pledging a five-year collaboration to bolster climate-resilient agriculture and sustainable development in the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region.

The HKH, characterized by unique, extreme landscapes and large, diverse populations, is severely impacted by climate change, pollution and biodiversity loss. The region urgently needs sustainable agriculture that is resilient to these crises, and can deliver more and nutritious food for a growing population without further harming the environment and natural resources.

This partnership leverages IFPRI’s policy expertise related to agriculture and food systems, and ICIMOD’s experience generating and sharing knowledge about the HKH and their deep connection with mountain communities. Together, the partners will conduct research on climate challenges, identify opportunities for sustainable livelihoods, and co-actionable solutions for the region’s eight member countries – Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal and Pakistan.

 Dr. Shahidur Rashid, Director-South Asia, IFPRI, stated: "This partnership builds on IFPRI’s decades of experience in evidence-based policymaking and ICIMOD’s engagement with mountain communities. By aligning our expertise, we aim to create robust policy frameworks that will enhance resilience and livelihoods for millions."

 Dr. Pema Gyamtsho, Director General of ICIMOD, stated: "The Hindu Kush Himalaya is ground zero for climate threats. Partnering with IFPRI will strengthen our research, innovation, and outreach to equip our member countries with solutions to build communities’ resilience and food security at this urgent moment."

Key areas of collaboration under the MoU:

• Building capacity for climate-resilient agriculture and food systems
• Researching climate challenges and sustainable livelihood opportunities
• Assessing climate change impacts on agriculture, incomes, and mountain sustainability
• Mobilizing resources for joint initiatives
• Developing and disseminating knowledge products on climate-resilient agriculture
• Partnering with global centers for sustainable mountain development

###

For media inquiries, contact: Anisha Mohan, Communications Specialist | Email: a.mohan@cgiar.org