The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), with support from the Accelerating Impacts of CGIAR Climate Research for Africa (AICCRA), has officially launched the IGAD Digital Agro-Climate Advisory Services (DACAS) Knowledge Network. This milestone event brought together technical experts from IGAD Member States, and regional technical partners to discuss the terms of reference and action plan for the Network to facilitate knowledge exchange.
The launch is part of the broader Food Systems Resilience Program (FSRP), a seven-year initiative funded by the World Bank aimed at enhancing food system resilience and improving preparedness for food insecurity in Eastern and Southern Africa. Under this program, IGAD is spearheading efforts to improve regional coordination and institutional capacity in key areas such as early warning, food security, and agro-climate advisory services.
The DACAS Knowledge Network will function as a vibrant community of practice, facilitating continuous learning, collaboration, and the exchange of digital agro-climate advisory services knowledge products among IGAD Member States. IGAD is in the process of establishing a dedicated online platform that will enable stakeholders to access critical DACAS knowledge and support informed decision-making.
The meeting built on progress made during a consultative workshop held in December 2024 and insights from the High-Level Learning Event in Addis Ababa in March 2025.
The three-day event concluded with the formal launch of the DACAS Knowledge Network, participants approved the Terms of Reference and Action Plan, shared experiences and lessons learned from the region, and committed to continued collaboration.
Quotes:
“This launch marks a critical step in our collective efforts to tackle the challenges posed by climate change, food insecurity, and the urgent need for resilient agricultural practices. It is also an opportunity to celebrate the spirit of cooperation and the strength of our partnerships. The success of the IGAD DACAS Knowledge Network will depend on the continued commitment and engagement of each one of you here today. Your knowledge, expertise, and dedication are what will drive this initiative forward.” — Dr. Meles Mekonen, State Minister for Agriculture and Horticulture Development, Ethiopia
“At IGAD, our vision is anchored in strengthening resilience, ensuring food and nutrition security, and fostering sustainable development across the region. In the face of growing climate challenges, digital agro-climate advisory services are pivotal to transforming our food systems. The establishment of this regional knowledge network is a vital step toward achieving our collective goals, and we are proud to see it coming to fruition.” — Mr. Abebaw Bihonegn, IGAD Head of Mission to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia
“The launch of the DACAS Knowledge Network marks a critical milestone in our collective efforts to build climate-resilient food systems in the IGAD region. By fostering collaboration, sharing knowledge, and embracing digital innovation, we are empowering our farmers, researchers, and decision-makers with the tools they need to adapt and thrive in the face of climate challenges.” — Mr. Daher Elmi Houssein, Director, Agriculture and Environment Division, IGAD
“AICCRA East and Southern Africa programme, along with our regional, national, and CGIAR partners, is proud to collaborate on the launch of the IGAD Digital Agro-Climate Advisory Services (DACAS) Knowledge Network. The knowledge network aims to strengthen regional collaboration and innovation in digital agro-climate advisory services, helping to build climate-resilient food systems across the IGAD region. Our programme will lead and coordinate the regional technical working group in consultation with IGAD. Leveraging on our engagement in the digital agriculture sector, we hope to co-create a vibrant hub that brings together various stakeholders in the IGAD member states by fostering collaboration and enabling timely, reliable, and actionable learning and sharing of climate and agricultural information and services that build food systems resilience in Africa.” – Dr. Dawit Solomon, AICCRA Eastern and Southern Africa Program Leader
Source : IGAD