New IICA Director General Muhammad Ibrahim Pledges Science-Driven Agricultural Development

Muhammad Ibrahim Takes Office as New Director General of IICA

In a significant leadership transition, Muhammad Ibrahim has been appointed as the new Director General of the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), an institution dedicated to advancing agricultural development across the Americas. The ceremony, held on January 16, 2026, in San José, Costa Rica, was attended by ministers and officials from over thirty countries, underscoring the regional importance of this role.

Ibrahim, a seasoned agronomist from Guyana, emphasized his commitment to improving food systems and enhancing agricultural productivity throughout the Americas, anchored in scientific collaboration. He stated, "I accept this tremendous responsibility with gratitude, humility, and a profound sense of purpose. I intend to be a Director General for all the Americas, acknowledging that each region requires tailored strategies."

A Vision for Agricultural Innovation and Competitiveness

During his inaugural speech, Ibrahim expressed his goal to elevate IICA's excellence and foster collaborative efforts with member countries. He aims to bridge gaps in agricultural systems to ensure they are more sustainable and efficient. As he takes the reins, he highlighted the crucial need for transparency, financial prudence, and accountability in IICA's operations.

The new Director General succeeds Manuel Otero, whose tenure bolstered IICA's standing as a leading institution in technical support for agricultural and rural development. Otero lauded the organization’s focus on enhancing the livelihoods of farmers and the vital role it plays in regional transformation.

Support from Global Agricultural Leaders

The inauguration ceremony featured high-level attendees, including Costa Rican Vice President Mary Munive Angermüller and agricultural ministers from countries such as Guyana, Brazil, Belize, and Chile. All officials acknowledged the key position IICA holds in supporting the development of resilient agricultural practices in the Americas.

A representative from the U.S. government remarked on IICA's tangible outcomes in the region, praising its role in strengthening food systems that benefit farmers, facilitating international trade, and improving the resilience of its member states.

Agustín Tejeda, deputy secretary from the Argentine Ministry of Agriculture, applauded Ibrahim’s extensive background in agricultural development and policy, stating that it prepares him well to lead IICA at a critical juncture aimed at boosting production and international trade.

The Path Ahead for Agriculture

Ibrahim's new position comes at a time when the agricultural sector faces significant challenges, including the need for greater efficiency in resource use and the incorporation of innovative practices to maximize opportunities in global markets. IICA's role as a technical cooperation entity will be crucial as it assists countries in designing and implementing science-based policies aimed at improving competitiveness and reducing operational costs.

The ceremonial proceedings were broadcasted online, allowing for a broader audience to witness Ibrahim’s acceptance speech. Guyanese President Mohamed Irfaan Ali praised the IICA for its pivotal function in value generation within the agricultural sector, recognizing Ibrahim's responsibility to strengthen the competitive and sustainable agricultural frameworks.

The community of nations within the Americas stands at a critical threshold where agricultural policies and technological innovations must align to enhance food security and economic resilience. Ibrahim's leadership will be instrumental in guiding IICA's goals to ensure that agriculture remains a cornerstone of prosperity across the region.

As Ibrahim steps into this prominent role, he faces the challenge of uniting diverse agricultural interests and leveraging regional strengths to fortify the agricultural landscape across the Americas, reinforcing the essential role of agriculture in ensuring national security and economic stability.