As part of our Elevating Agricultural Adaptation Program the BKMC CEO Monika Froehler participated in the Gates Foundation’s convening on “Resilient Advocacy: Adapting to New Realities in Agriculture and Food Systems ODA.” The two-day workshop gathered leading advocacy partners and grantees to address the urgent challenges posed by shifting geopolitical landscapes and declining development assistance for agriculture and food systems.
Held at the Gates Foundation Office in London, the convening offered a space for honest exchange on how we can recalibrate our approaches, strengthen messaging, and enhance collaboration to safeguard Official Development Assistance (ODA) and bolster food and climate resilience globally.
Key takeaways:
- Shared context and analysis: The sessions highlighted the growing urgency to defend public investments in agriculture, especially as political will and funding face headwinds.
- Insights from partners: Compelling research presentations from the Center for Climate and Security, Shamba Centre for Food and Climate, Global Citizen, and United Against Hunger and Malnutrition showcased innovative framing, data-driven narratives, and people-centered advocacy approaches.
- CGIAR contributions: CGIAR shared insights into how they are responding to these ODA shifts by strengthening evidence-based advocacy and coalition-building to maintain visibility of agricultural R&D as a public good.
- Group discussions: Breakout sessions provided an opportunity to rethink advocacy tactics, refine messaging, and identify coordinated moments for action in 2025–2026. Strong emphasis was placed on mutual learning and new forms of partnership.
- BKMC’s Role: Represented by CEO Monika Froehler the BKMC contributed perspectives on youth-led advocacy and inclusive leadership. We highlighted our work with Youth Agri-Champions and decision makers and emphasized the importance of narrative building in shaping public and political support.
The convening concluded with a collective commitment to strengthen coordination, remain agile in the face of adversity, and double down on advocacy efforts ahead of key global moments in the coming year. Sincere thanks to the Gates Foundation team for convening this timely and action-oriented gathering.
