#USA #Gates Foundation #Climate Adaptation #Belém #smallholder farmers

Major Commitment by the Gates Foundation

The Gates Foundation has recently made a substantial commitment, amounting to $1.4 billion, aimed at empowering smallholder farmers in regions highly impacted by extreme climate conditions. Announced on November 10, 2025, during the COP30 summit in Belem, Brazil, this initiative seeks to enhance the adaptation capabilities of farmers grappling with the severe challenges posed by climate change, including droughts, floods, and extreme heat.

Bill Gates, the foundation's president, asserted the importance of supporting smallholder farmers who feed their communities under harsh circumstances, stating that empowering them with the necessary tools and resources is a pivotal investment for both people and the planet. This commitment directly aligns with the Foundation's mission to lift millions out of poverty by 2045, emphasizing localized adaptation strategies to address global challenges effectively.

The Issue at Hand

Farmers in low-income nations are crucial to global food supply, producing roughly one-third of the world’s food. Yet, they face escalating threats due to climate change, which jeopardizes food security and reverses hard-won progress against poverty. Currently, less than 1% of global climate financing is directed towards safeguarding these vital food systems. Consequently, urgent action is needed to bridge this funding gap and support farmers adapting to increasing climate adversities.

World Bank studies suggest significant economic returns from investments in adaptation strategies, potentially boosting GDP in developing regions by 15% by 2050. Furthermore, every dollar allocated towards climate adaptation is projected to yield over $10 in economic and social benefits within a decade. Mark Suzman, the Gates Foundation's CEO, reinforced the notion that climate adaptation is not just a developmental necessity but also an essential economic and ethical responsibility that requires collaboration across government and private sectors.

Scaling Innovations for Farmers

To assist in this adaptation effort, the Gates Foundation's investment will enhance evidence-based, farmer-led innovations designed to improve rural livelihoods and food systems. This includes:

• - Digital advisory services: Utilizing mobile applications and SMS technology to provide timely and personalized agricultural advice, helping farmers make informed decisions about planting and risk management. The initiative aims to reach 100 million farmers across Africa, Asia, and Latin America by 2030.
• - Climate-resilient crops and livestock: Promoting drought-resistant and heat-tolerant varieties that improve yields and nutritional value.
• - Soil health innovations: Focusing on techniques that restore degraded land, boost productivity, and reduce emissions through a $30 million partnership with Novo Nordisk Foundation to advance soil science research.

Building Partnerships for Impact

This new commitment builds on collaborations formed during previous climate summits, designed to benefit millions of farmers currently facing severe climate impacts. For instance, the AIM for Scale initiative launched in 2023 has provided nearly 40 million farmers in India with AI-driven weather forecasts via SMS, effectively protecting millions of hectares of crops.

In conjunction with local governments, agricultural research organizations, and private sector partners, the Gates Foundation is poised to scale these initiatives, fortifying rural economies and ensuring food security in the long run. Wanjeri Mbugua, CEO of TomorrowNow, highlighted the potential of robust data-driven solutions to empower farmers to build resilience tailored to their unique needs.

Collaborative Efforts at COP30

This funding commitment represents a collective global commitment spearheaded by African leaders and Brazilian presidency during COP30 to center food security, livelihoods, and health within resilience planning. Brazil's own experience of integrating social programs with sustainable agricultural practices offers a model for inclusive adaptation that promotes equitable growth.

Together with various organizations, including Brazil’s Ministry of Agriculture, Embrapa, and the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), the Gates Foundation will co-host an Agricultural Innovation Showcase during COP30 to highlight climate-smart, affordable solutions designed for farmers, many of whom are developed by the farmers themselves. More information about this initiative can be found at Embrapa's COP30 page.

About the Gates Foundation

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all individuals, championing global health, education, and empowerment initiatives. The Foundation collaborates with local partners to create high-impact solutions that allow individuals to seize their future and realize their potential. With its headquarters located in Seattle, Washington, the foundation operates under the guidance of CEO Mark Suzman, alongside Bill Gates and the Board of Directors.

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