Nairobi Agrobiodiversity Debates
On 22 May 2010, the Platform for Agrobiodiversity Research (PAR) organized it’s first public discussion to celebrate the United Nations proclaimed International Day for Biological Diversity. The main aim of the seminar was to increase the public’s understanding and awareness of agricultural biodiversity and it importance in the wider picture of biodiversity. The event attended by more than 50 participants was held at the National Museum of Kenya’s Louis Leakey Auditorium in Nairobi which coincidentally was the venue for the CBD’s International Day for Biological Diversity celebrations.
An interesting presentation was given by the keynote speaker Dr Hans Herren, the current president of the Millennium Institute and 1995 World Food Prize Laureate.
His presentation titled “Multifunctionality: The Unexplored Positive Side of Agriculture” focused on the importance and relevance of sustainable agriculture.He addressed the multifunctional and how it involves small scale farmers and the need for a holistic approach towards “reconstructing” agriculture friendly ecosystems. He also talked about “unexplored positive sides of agriculture”, where he gave classic examples on how agricultural systems can be managed to benefit people and biodiversity.
His presentation was supported by the panelists with Dr Bala Pisupati from UNEP who spoke talking about his experiences in India and Patrick Maundu from National Museums of Kenya/Bioversity International who gave a brief presentation on the important role of agricultural biodiversity in strengthening adaptability and resilience to climate change.
In conclusion, Herren emphasised the need for changes in production and consumption patterns to reduce impacts and contribute to biodiversity conservation and sustainable use.
