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Tropentag, September 10 - 12, 2025, Bonn

"Reconciling land system changes with planetary health"

Why science matters for the transformation of agricultural and food systems: A science-policy dialogue

Theresa Herbold

Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, Germany, Germany


Abstract

To transform agricultural and food systems globally, we need the right levers for change. Data and evidence are crucial to identifying these levers and lay the foundation for sound political decision-making. Scientists and other partners have an important role to play in providing such data and evidence, thereby enabling decisions that generate impact at scale, sustainably and efficiently.

German development cooperation involves both national and international research institutions in its programmes. The so-called “accompanying research” has demonstrated great potential to guide both German government and policymakers in partner countries towards impactful action.

However, work remains to be done to ensure that relevant scientific evidence reaches policymakers and is actively being used in decision-making processes. Improving demand-orientation of science and tailoring scientific results to the needs of policymakers remains a challenge.

Against this background the panel aims to discuss the kind of data, evidence and policy advice we need to ensure inclusive policymaking and sustainable impact at scale. How can scientific outputs become relevant and actionable for policymaking? And how can the science-policy dialogue be structured to achieve this objective?

Speakers and panellists representing science, policy, and development cooperation will participate in the discussion.

10:30 - 10:35 Welcome: Aliénor De Cuypère (GIZ)

10:35 - 10:40 Opening remarks: Theresa Herbold (BMZ)

10:40 - 10:50 Keynote: Why science matters for the transformation of agrifood systems - Matin Qaim (University of Bonn, ZEF)

10:50 - 11:30 Panel discussion:

  • HE Dr. Yang Saing Koma (MAFF, Cambodia)
  • Hon. Neema Lugangira (Member of Parliament, Tanzania)
  • Michael Brüntrup (IDOS)
  • Stefan Sieber (ZALF)
  • Iddo Dror (CGIAR)
  • Birthe Lappe (GIZ)

    • 11:30 - 11:55 Open discussion with audience: Aliénor De Cuypère (GIZ) and panel

    11:55 - 12:00 Closure: Theresa Herbold (BMZ)

    Keywords: Accompanying research, evidence, policy advice, science-policy dialogue, transformation of agricultural and food systems

    Contact Address: Theresa Herbold, Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, Germany, Ölbergweg 19, 53227 Bonn, Germany, e-mail: theresa.herbold@gmx.de

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