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New Commitment to Smallholder Farmers

On November 7, 2025, the Gates Foundation unveiled a transformative commitment to bolster climate resilience among smallholder farmers, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, regions severely affected by extreme weather conditions. This groundbreaking initiative, announced during COP30 in Belém, Brazil, represents a substantial investment of $1.4 billion aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and food security in some of the world's most vulnerable areas.

Addressing the Climate Crisis

Smallholder farmers play a pivotal role in feeding local communities, yet they face significant threats from climate change—be it prolonged droughts, intensified floods, or rising temperatures. Current estimates indicate that these farmers produce one-third of the world’s food but receive less than 1% of global climate financing dedicated to agriculture. Bill Gates, the Foundation's chair, underscored the necessity of supporting these farmers, stating, "They are feeding their communities under the toughest conditions imaginable. Investing in their resilience is one of the smartest, most impactful things we can do."

The Vision Behind the Commitment

The commitment aligns with Bill Gates’ vision articulated in a recent memo, which emphasizes the need for climate investments that maximize human impact. The Gates Foundation has set the ambitious goal of lifting millions out of poverty by 2045, a target that necessitates a concerted effort to address the challenges posed by climate change to agricultural systems.

Filling the Funding Gap

According to estimates from the World Bank, targeted investments in climate adaptation could significantly improve GDP in low-income countries, raising it by as much as 15% by 2050. Mark Suzman, CEO of the Gates Foundation, highlighted the moral imperative for climate adaptation, noting, "This new commitment builds on our support for farmers who are already innovating to withstand extreme weather. But they need help—inclusive strategies involving both public and private sector collaboration are essential."

Innovations for Climate Resilience

This new influx of funding will empower the expansion of farmer-led, evidence-based innovations that enhance food systems and livelihoods. Notable characteristics of these innovations include:

• - Digital Advisory Services: Utilizing mobile apps and SMS, farmers will have access to crucial, timely information to make informed decisions regarding planting and risk management.
• - Climate-Resilient Crops: Development of crop varieties and livestock capable of withstanding harsh climatic conditions while improving yield and nutritional value.
• - Soil Health Innovations: Initiatives aimed at restoring degraded lands and enhancing agricultural productivity through sustainable practices, bolstered by a $30 million partnership with the Novo Nordisk Foundation.

Partnerships Amplifying Impact

The Gates Foundation’s initiative builds upon partnerships established at COP27 and focuses on reaching millions of farmers already implementing innovative solutions. Such partnerships include:

• - AIM for Scale: This global initiative successfully delivered AI-powered weather forecasts to nearly 40 million farmers across multiple Indian states during the 2025 monsoon season.
• - TomorrowNow and KALRO: Collaborating with the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization, this partnership offers hyper-local weather alerts to over 5 million Kenyan farmers, contributing to increased agricultural productivity and better crop management.

Global Collaboration for a Sustainable Future

This new commitment reflects a multilateral desire to prioritize food security, health, and sustainable livelihoods within resilience planning. By showcasing successful agricultural innovations at the COP30 Agricultural Innovation Showcase, leaders aim to demonstrate how scalable, climate-smart solutions can yield significant benefits.

With the support of diverse stakeholders, including governments and private-sector partners, the Gates Foundation aims to bolster rural economies and establish sustainable agricultural practices. Bill Gates reiterated that when smallholder farmers are equipped with the right tools, they can adapt rapidly to changing climates, ultimately building resilience on their own terms.

About the Gates Foundation

Guided by the belief that every life possesses equal value, the Gates Foundation is committed to aiding individuals in leading healthy and productive lives. The Foundation focuses on impactful partnerships in developing countries to equip communities with the resources necessary for self-sufficiency and growth. Based in Seattle, Washington, the Foundation is steered by CEO Mark Suzman under the guidance of Bill Gates and its governing board.