By: Kassahun Chanie
In a significant stride towards bolstering food security and climate resilience, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has held a three-day assortment of discussions to launch the Digital Agro-Climate Advisory Services (DACAS) Knowledge Network on May 5, 2025, in Bishoftu, Ethiopia.
This initiative aims to equip farmers and pastoralists across the Horn of Africa with vital information and resources to navigate the increasingly unpredictable impacts of climate change.
The DACAS Knowledge Network represents a pivotal moment in regional cooperation among IGAD member states, technical partners, and international donors, including the World Bank.
"We are gathered here today for an important milestone in our collective efforts to foster regional cooperation, enhance food security, and promote climate resilience across the Horn of Africa and beyond," stated Meles Mekonnen (PhD), State Minister for Agriculture and Horticulture Development. His remarks underscored the urgency of addressing the pressing challenges posed by climate change to agricultural systems in the region.
During the occasion, the State Minister accentuated that the DACAS initiative is designed to provide a robust platform for knowledge sharing and capacity building among member states. It aims to support farmers and pastoralists by delivering timely agro-climate information and advisory services, State Minister Meles further underscored.
The State Minister added that by leveraging digital technologies, the network will facilitate real-time access to critical data that can help stakeholders make informed decisions regarding crop management, pest control, and resource allocation.
Furthering the matter, Meles elaborated on the significance of the initiative, emphasizing that "this network will be a critical tool for advancing climate-smart agriculture, sharing knowledge, and ensuring that the region’s farmers are well-equipped to cope with the growing impacts of climate change."
“Today, we embark on a journey to enhance food security and resilience in our region,” declared Abebaw Bihonegn, IGAD Head of Mission to Ethiopia.
This three-day regional meeting, organized by IGAD’s Food Systems Resilience Program, gathers key stakeholders to discuss strategies for sustainable agricultural practices.
Emphasizing the significance of this network, Abebaw noted, “The DACAS initiative is pivotal for achieving our vision of a resilient and prosperous region.”
The network will facilitate knowledge sharing among member states, enabling farmers and pastoralists to adapt to the growing impacts of climate change.
This sentiment encapsulates the urgency and importance of the initiative, he stated.
The DACAS platform will serve as an integrated digital agro-climatic information system that provides real-time data and advisory services tailored to local agricultural needs, according to IGAD Ethiopia's Head of Mission.
According to the discussion, by facilitating knowledge sharing among member states, the network aims to empower farmers with the tools they need to adapt their practices in response to changing climatic conditions.
Through this initiative, farmers will gain access to vital information on weather forecasts, pest management, soil health, and sustainable farming techniques, the Representative underscored.
Meanwhile, in his opening remarks, IGAD Director for Environment and Natural Resources, Daher Elimi, stated “It is a great pleasure and an honour to be here with you all today for this important event,” highlighting the significance of collaboration among IGAD member states.
“The DACAS initiative is pivotal for achieving our vision of a resilient and prosperous region,” he noted.
He further elaborated on how the network would enable countries to learn from each other’s successes and failures, fostering a culture of shared responsibility in addressing food security challenges.
The World Bank's involvement underscores the global recognition of the urgent need for climate adaptation strategies in agriculture.
As part of its support for DACAS, the World Bank aims to enhance the capacity of local institutions and improve access to funding for innovative agricultural projects, it was noted.
This partnership reflects a broader commitment to sustainable development goals and highlights the interconnectedness of regional and global efforts in combating climate change.
As discussions unfolded over the three-day event, participants delved into various topics related to climate-smart agriculture.
Workshops focused on practical applications of digital technologies in farming, such as mobile apps for weather updates and market access platforms that connect farmers directly with consumers. These tools are expected to not only improve productivity but also enhance farmers' resilience to economic shocks caused by climate variability.