William Ruto Backs IAEA’s ‘Atoms for Food’ Initiative, Advocates for Africa’s Food Security

New York — Kenya’s President William Samoei Ruto has voiced his support for the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) Atoms for Food initiative, a collaborative effort between the IAEA and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) aimed at boosting agricultural productivity through the use of nuclear technology.

In a recent post on social media, President Ruto emphasized the importance of leveraging this initiative to strengthen food security in Africa and globally. He stated, “We will advocate for the implementation of this initiative, which aims to harness the benefits of nuclear technology to enhance agricultural productivity, furthering food security in Africa and beyond.”

We applaud the International Atomic Energy Agency for spearheading the Atoms for Food Initiative — a joint effort with the Food and Agriculture Organisation.

We will advocate for the implementation of this initiative, which aims to harness the benefits of nuclear technology to… pic.twitter.com/o5Fx15hJLY

— William Samoei Ruto, PhD (@WilliamsRuto) September 26, 2024

The initiative explores how nuclear techniques can improve soil and water management, develop climate-resilient crops, and increase crop yields, all essential components in addressing food insecurity, a pressing issue on the African continent.

While in New York, President Ruto also met with IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi to discuss further collaboration between Kenya and the agency. Among the key topics was the provision of additional equipment for the early detection and treatment of cancer in Kenya, which aligns with the government’s efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure and services.

Ruto expressed gratitude for the IAEA’s contributions to healthcare, noting that nuclear technology is critical not only in agriculture but also in the fight against cancer. “We are grateful for the IAEA’s continued support in equipping Kenya with the tools needed to detect and treat cancer early, saving lives and advancing our healthcare system,” he shared during his engagement with Grossi.

The Kenyan president and Grossi also discussed broader issues, including the IAEA’s efforts in promoting a peaceful and nuclear-free world, a goal both leaders are committed to advancing.

Ruto’s proactive approach to the Atoms for Food initiative and his engagement with international partners underscore Kenya’s dedication to utilizing innovative technologies to tackle pressing challenges such as food security and healthcare. With Africa facing climate change and agricultural productivity challenges, such initiatives represent a promising solution for sustainable development in the region.

Ruto’s support for this initiative is seen as part of his larger vision for transforming Kenya’s agricultural sector and addressing the continent’s growing food security concerns.

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