The global agricultural research network CGIAR closed out its first-ever Science Week on Friday with a mix of scientific ambition and cautious optimism.
The event, held at the United Nations Office at Nairobi last week, drew over 8,000 people in person and another 2,000 online, with representatives from 1,000 organizations and 100 countries. CGIAR is a partnership of 15 agricultural research centers worldwide.
Despite ongoing concerns around research funding, given recent cuts to official development aid by the United States and other Western donors, the tone throughout the week was largely forward-looking. Participants focused on innovation, partnerships, and turning scientific research into action.