Agricultural innovations
Increasing demands need new agricultural methods and concepts. GIZ promotes innovation through the exchange of expertise.
Agriculture faces major challenges from climate change and the growing world population. In order to meet the demand for agricultural products, however, agricultural production, processing and marketing must constantly develop, adapt and improve. It needs support in the form of knowledge, information and management services.
However, this assistance is not available to many producers and farms in the agricultural and food sectors. They are thus denied innovations that could help them to increase productivity and income and contribute to ensuring a healthy diet.
GIZ has set itself the goal of making rural services and innovations more accessible. On behalf of the Federal Government, it is particularly committed to networking and knowledge exchange and advises its partners on national and international agricultural research.
These are the most important measures:
Development of an innovation and knowledge system
In order to combat poverty effectively and ensure food security, the expertise of all those involved must be used. This is why GIZ promotes networking: exchanges between agricultural producers, research and educational institutions, public and private advisory services, non-governmental organisations and private enterprises are strengthened and optimised.
Research for development
The GIZ strengthens the development orientation of agricultural research. It advises research institutions on orienting their work towards sustainable agriculture. In concrete terms, this means a sustainable increase in food production, concentration on high-quality food and more employment opportunities in agriculture. Through cooperation with agricultural research, tried and tested good practices and new approaches are disseminated via service providers and networks.
Transfer of knowledge
GIZ offers its partners access to networks and expertise and to agricultural education and advice. It supports the development of curricula and advisory concepts as well as the implementation of advisory services. GIZ also assists its partners in the organisation of conferences, symposia and technical discussions.
Virtual and real exchange
Knowledge transfer platforms have proven their worth in disseminating know-how. The GIZ analyses the need for innovations and technologies in specific regions and finances the practical application of research results. By linking virtual knowledge platforms with real expert meetings, the GIZ promotes regular professional exchange.
Experts and advice
The GIZ places young researchers and experts for agricultural research and develops and manages a competitive research fund. In the field of rural services, it offers its partners organisational and business management advice.