Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Commits $1.4 Billion to Help Farmers Adapt to Climate Change
The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has announced a commitment of at least $1.4 billion by 2029 to support farmers in sub-Saharan Africa and Asia in adapting to the effects of climate change. The announcement was made by the foundation's CEO, Mark Suzman, on the eve of the COP30 conference in Brazil.
Objective
The goal is clear: to support innovations that can preserve agricultural yields threatened by rising temperatures, water scarcity, and seasonal variability. The funding will aim to develop practical solutions, ranging from microorganism-based biofertilizers to digital decision-making tools, including soil health mapping. These technologies will enable small-scale producers to adapt their practices to compensate for the expected 10-20% decline in yields for the continent's main crops in the absence of adaptation measures.
The Crisis in Africa
Africa remains the most exposed to this crisis: around 95% of the continent's agricultural land still depends on rainfall, according to the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI). The seasons, once regular, have become unpredictable, leading to crop losses and growing food insecurity.
Building on Proven Initiatives
The Gates Foundation is counting on already proven initiatives. For example, the International Potato Center created a mildew-resistant potato variety in Peru thanks to a previous grant from the foundation. This commitment demonstrates the foundation's dedication to supporting farmers in developing countries and helping them build resilience to the impacts of climate change.
