Author Description

In response to the pressing need for innovative solutions to address food security challenges, a Tripartite Cooperation Agreement between FAO Regional Office for the Near East and North Africa region, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) initiated a comprehensive “Mapping exercise of affordable and transferrable food security-related technologies”. This mapping targets 10 countries where smallholder farmers face different challenges, including Bangladesh, Brazil, Egypt, Jordan, Palestine, Morocco, Nigeria, Tajikistan, Tunisia, and Turkey. The mapping effort focuses on six technology thematic areas critical to improving food security: 1) postharvest, reducing food loss and waste; 2) water management and water saving technologies in face of climate change; 3) sustainable pest control and crop management; 4) e-commerce and market access, 5) fintech; and 6) green energy for farmers agribusiness operations. A screening criteria and three-level technology assessment methodology was developed focusing on affordable, reliable and easy-to-use green and environmentally friendly technologies that have potential to be leveraged and mainstreamed throughout the crop value chain for improving food security among smallholder farmers in selected countries.