Dr. Jacqueline d’Arros Hughes, current Director General of the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), will assume her role as Secretary General of the World Agriculture Forum (WAF) in November 2024. Her extensive experience in sustainable farming and food security will drive WAF’s mission to transform agriculture worldwide.
Dr. Hughes’ Career in Sustainable Agriculture
With over 30 years in agricultural research, Dr. Hughes has focused on improving food supplies and supporting rural communities, especially in Africa and Asia. Her work is aimed at helping vulnerable regions tackle food security issues.
Leadership and Achievements at ICRISAT
Dr. Hughes has led ICRISAT for four years, where her focus on crop resilience and dryland farming has resulted in several major accomplishments:
- Africa Food Prize (2021) – Recognized for contributions to agriculture in Africa.
- Indian Prime Minister’s Visit (2022) – Hosted PM Narendra Modi at ICRISAT’s 50th anniversary.
- G20 Summit Participation (2023) – Engaged in global agricultural discussions.
- UN International Year of Millets – Supported millet cultivation to enhance food security.
Key Focus Areas for Dr. Jacqueline d’Arros Hughes WAF Secretary General
As Secretary General, Dr. Hughes will advance WAF’s initiatives in the following areas:
| Focus Area | Details |
| Sustainable Agricultural Development | Promote sustainable farming practices globally. |
| Public-Private Partnerships | Foster collaboration for large-scale agricultural impact. |
| Policy Advocacy & Trade | Remove trade barriers, support policy improvements. |
| Support for Smallholder Farmers | Build capacity and market access for small-scale farmers. |
| Technology & Innovation | Drive adoption of digital tools and climate resilience strategies. |
World Agriculture Forum’s Mission and Strategic Goals
WAF is a global platform that brings together stakeholders to shape agricultural policies, promote trade, and develop sustainable solutions. Headquartered internationally, WAF aims to create a resilient and food-secure future through public-private partnerships and technology.
Dr. Hughes’ Vision for WAF
With her deep experience in sustainable agriculture, Dr. Hughes will guide WAF toward impactful collaborations that empower farmers and support climate-resilient agricultural practices. She envisions WAF as a bridge connecting local agricultural needs with global solutions.
Dr. Jacqueline d’Arros Hughes New Role at WAF Secretary General Summary
- Dr. Jacqueline Hughes, ICRISAT Director General, to join WAF as Secretary General.
- Hughes brings 30+ years in sustainable agriculture, focusing on food security.
- Achievements at ICRISAT include Africa Food Prize and G20 participation.
- WAF promotes sustainable agriculture, trade, and smallholder support.
- Hughes’ WAF role will focus on partnerships and climate-resilient farming.
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FAQs on Dr. Jacqueline d’Arros Hughes WAF Secretary General
She will serve as the Secretary General, leading global efforts for sustainable agriculture.
Dr. Hughes has over 30 years of experience in agricultural research and food security.
WAF is a global organization focused on advancing sustainable farming and supporting agricultural trade.
Her achievements include the Africa Food Prize, Prime Minister Modi’s visit to ICRISAT, and G20 Summit participation.
She aims to strengthen partnerships, promote sustainable practices, and support climate resilience.
WAF provides capacity-building programs and market access to small-scale farmers.
WAF focuses on sustainable development, trade facilitation, and public-private collaborations.