IGAD envoy underscores digital innovation as key to food system resilience

Addis Ababa, May 5, 2025 (FMC) — IGAD’s Head of Mission to Ethiopia, Mr. Abebaw Bihonegn, today highlighted the importance of digital agro-climate advisory services in addressing climate change and enhancing food security in the region, during the opening of a regional meeting in Bishoftu to launch the IGAD DACAS Knowledge Network.

Speaking on behalf of the IGAD Executive Secretary, Abebaw welcomed participants from across IGAD Member States and regional organizations to the three-day meeting organized under the Food Systems Resilience Program (FSRP) with support from the World Bank.

“Digital agro-climate advisory is pivotal in achieving our vision of a resilient, peaceful, and integrated region,” he stated, adding that the DACAS Knowledge Network represents IGAD’s commitment to advancing coordinated, data-driven solutions to climate-related challenges.

He noted that IGAD’s mandate—to promote peace, prosperity, and integration—relies heavily on improving food and nutrition security, managing natural resources sustainably, and building resilience to disasters and climate variability.

The DACAS platform, he said, will foster cross-border collaboration among ministries of agriculture, meteorological services, and research institutions, allowing for real-time information exchange and knowledge sharing to support farmers and policymakers alike.

Mr. Abebaw also extended gratitude to the Ethiopian government for hosting the meeting and thanked technical partners and donors, particularly the World Bank, for their continued support.

The DACAS Knowledge Network is expected to formalize its structure and operational plan over the course of the meeting, setting the stage for its full regional rollout by IGAD’s Agriculture and Environment Division.