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GGAA 2025: Global Science Converges in Nairobi to Reimagine the Future of Climate-Smart Livestock

Author

Gerald Kombo
October 08, 2025

The Global Grand Challenge on Animal Agriculture (GGAA) 2025 concluded at the Sarit Expo Centre (@SaritThe), Nairobi, after four days of technical discussions, scientific presentations, and international collaboration on livestock and climate research. Hosted under the themes #GGAA25 and #WhyLivestockMatter, the event brought together over 500 delegates from more than 40 countries, including scientists, policymakers, and industry leaders, to advance climate-smart livestock systems for sustainable food security.

A Global Gathering of Minds

Organized by @ILRI, GGAA 2025 spotlighted critical research on livestock’s climate role.

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“GGAA 2025 has shown that when researchers, policymakers, and practitioners work together, we can create scalable impact for people and the planet,”
 Prof. Appolinaire Djikeng, Director General, ILRI.

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“We do not have to choose between food security and climate mitigation; farmer-ready solutions are proving it’s possible to do both.”

Scientists presented new findings and case studies on methane reduction, animal genetics, feed innovation, and emissions monitoring, with a special focus on Africa’s growing contribution to the global research agenda.

Science for a Changing Climate

A highlight was the GEMS Project (GreenFeed Emissions Measurement System), led by @Cornell, @ucdavis, @ETH_en, and @Gmethanehub.

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“Accurate measurement is the foundation of meaningful climate action... The GEMS network allows for shared data that informs better livestock policy and innovation globally.”
 GEMS Project Lead

This open science and data-sharing movement aims to establish global methane standards and drive science-based, scalable solutions for livestock and climate.

Nairobi at the Center of Global Livestock Research

https://www.flickr.com/photos/ilri/albums/72177720329486537/with/54835522906

By hosting GGAA 2025, Kenya reaffirmed its status as Africa’s climate and ag research hub.

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“Low- and middle-income livestock systems have been under-represented in global climate science. GGAA 2025 changes that. We are showcasing African-led research and context-driven innovations that can shape the future of sustainable livestock.”
 Dr. Claudia Arndt, Senior Scientist, ILRI

In closing:

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“GGAA 2025 should be a springboard for lasting partnerships that ensure solutions are farmer-ready, affordable, and equitable, supporting resilient livelihoods.”
 Prof. Appolinaire Djikeng

@ILRI thanked partners and reaffirmed its mission to promote innovation, local capacity, and data-driven policy in livestock.

Delegates from Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas attend the closing plenary of GGAA 2025 at Sarit Expo Centre, Nairobi. The four-day event convened global experts under #GGAA25 and #WhyLivestockMatter, advancing climate-smart livestock research.

About GGAA

The GGAA is the world’s leading forum on livestock and climate research, bringing together experts to accelerate innovation, exchange data, and promote sustainable food systems that reduce environmental impact.