Horticulture Innovation Lab hosts Horticulture and Nutrition Systems Research Portfolio Workshop as a side event at Africa Food Systems Forum
This year marked a significant milestone for the Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Horticulture as it hosted its first Horticulture and Nutrition Systems Research Portfolio Workshop at the 2024 Africa Food Systems Forum (AFSF). This workshop aimed to unite experts from various agricultural fields to enhance research and practices related to horticulture and nutrition.
Co-funded by a grant awarded from the University of California, Davis, the workshop brought together 13 participants with diverse backgrounds, including horticulture, indigenous crop production, hydroponic systems, and agricultural extension, with a particular focus on gender issues. Participants engaged in collaborative discussions and activities that not only provided context on current horticulture investments but also encouraged innovative thinking about future research.
A Q-sort methodology was used to foster lively discussions on crucial topics such as defining healthy diets, the role of agriculture and nutrition education, the impact of informal markets on farmer profits, and addressing technological challenges like inadequate transportation and ineffective smartphone apps.
From these discussions emerged concrete next steps aimed at transforming challenges into opportunities:
Enhancing Post-Harvest Practices
Participants emphasized the importance of improving research and policies around post-harvest processing, such as drying fruits and vegetables or producing juices. Educational Curriculum Development: The group proposed creating school curricula focused on horticultural production and nutrition, along with contextually relevant cookbooks and children’s books to foster engagement and learning. Smartphone App Assessment: Recognizing the widespread use of agricultural apps, participants suggested conducting surveys to identify common issues, enabling the refinement of a main app that better serves farmers' needs. Building Capacity in the Value Chain: The need for enhanced transparency and decision-making in the value chain was highlighted, promoting stronger relationships among farmers.
Going forward
The insights gained from the workshop are now being synthesized into a policy brief by the Lab, aimed for presentation at the 2024 World Food Prize. This event not only showcased Feed the Future’s initiatives but also provided a valuable platform for networking with African farmers and organizations. The collaborative spirit and innovative ideas generated during the workshop set the stage for meaningful advancements in horticulture and nutrition, with the potential for lasting impact across communities worldwide.