The Director-General of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Dr Simeon Ehui, has highlighted the institute’s continued progress over the past year during his appearance on the maiden edition of “Hello IITA,” a flagship breakfast show on IITA TV.
Dr Ehui, who is also CGIAR Regional Director for Continental Africa, discussed a range of issues, including the launch of IITA Southern Africa Research and Administrative Hub (SARAH), through which IITA gained full diplomatic status as an international organization working in Zambia. He also highlighted the Regional Hub for Fertilizer and Soil Health, supported by ECOWAS and the World Bank, and focused on staff welfare and innovative income sources.
Speaking on the significance of the South Africa Hub, DG Ehui noted, “The establishment of our South Africa Hub with full diplomatic status marks a new chapter in our ability to engage at a higher level with national governments and international partners.” He also emphasized the significance of the Regional Hub for Fertilizer and Soil Health for West Africa and the Sahel, which opened at the IITA headquarters in Ibadan, Nigeria. “Soil health is fundamental to sustainable agriculture, and with the support of ECOWAS and the World Bank, IITA is leading the charge to improve soil management practices across the region,” he said.
Addressing the issue of staff welfare, Dr Ehui assured that the management remains responsive to the needs of employees, recognizing their critical role in the institute’s success. “Staff welfare is paramount, and we are committed to ensuring our employees are well catered for. Their dedication and hard work are the backbone of IITA’s achievements,” he said.
The DG also spoke about his efforts to diversify IITA’s income sources, emphasizing the importance of financial stability in enabling the institute to continue its vital work without interruptions. “We are exploring innovative funding models to ensure IITA remains financially robust. Our goal is to diversify our income streams so that our research and development activities can continue seamlessly,” he explained.
In his dual capacity as CGIAR Regional Director for Continental Africa, Dr Ehui highlighted the progress made in unifying CGIAR research centers across Africa under a common agenda. “Part of my role is to bring all CGIAR centers together to work towards a shared goal. We’ve successfully positioned CGIAR with major stakeholders like the African Development Bank and have gained strong support for our initiatives, including our contributions to the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP). IITA and CGIAR flags are flying high,” he remarked.
He took a moment to appreciate the institute’s past leadership for their foundational work, which paved the way for IITA’s current successes. “I want to thank my predecessor for his vision and leadership, which have been instrumental in positioning IITA where it is today,” he said.
During the live TV program, Ehui commended the IITA staff for their exceptional work and dedication and encouraged them to take pride in their achievements. “Be proud of the work you do. Your efforts are making a real difference, and I want to thank each of you for your support,” he added.
Expressing his excitement for the launch of IITA TV, Dr Ehui concluded, “The launch of IITA TV is a significant milestone in our communication strategy. It is a platform to help us reach even more stakeholders and showcase our impactful work. I look forward to many more editions of Hello IITA and to seeing how IITA TV will evolve in the coming years.”
IITA TV provides the public with the latest information on agronomic practices, research findings, health and nutrition updates, and agribusiness opportunities. In line with CGIAR’s mission, IITA TV is pivotal in proffering solutions to agricultural challenges and helping overcome poverty and hunger globally by disseminating cutting-edge information.
Contributed by ’Bamise Dada
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