On September 20, the U.S. Department of State, Office for Global Food Security and The Rockefeller Foundation are teaming up during the 78th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA78) to make the global case for the Vision for Adapted Crops and Soils (VACS). The exclusive event will share how the VACS framework addresses global food insecurity and will discuss how VACS can underpin sustainable progress in strengthening food systems in the developing world.
VACS seeks to boost agricultural productivity by developing climate-resilient, nutritious crop varieties and building healthy soils. Launched in partnership by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, the African Union, and the State Department, VACS aims to foster more resilient food systems, with an initial focus on the African continent.
The event will feature a panel discussion moderated by broadcast journalist Redi Tlhabi. Presenters include Dr. Agnes Kalibata , AGRA; Dr. Dilys MacCarthy, AgMIP/University of Ghana; Dr. Cary Fowler, State Department; and Dr. Roy Steiner , The Rockefeller Foundation.
Last month, Secretary Blinken introduced VACS at the UN Security Council and noted that “this focus on the quality of the seeds and the quality of the soil can have a powerful impact on sustainable agricultural productivity throughout Africa.” The panel assembled for this event will continue the conversation and discuss the opportunities and challenges to fostering resilient food systems, including through investments in plant breeding of climate-adapted nutritious crop varieties and fertile, healthy soils.
The event will be livestreamed. Register via: globalfoodsecurity@state.gov.