BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA – A growing need has emerged for farmers to take an active role in discussions surrounding agricultural policies, ensuring their voices are integral to the decision-making process that affects food production.
At the recent Congress of the Argentine Association of No-Till Farmers (AAPRESID) in Buenos Aires, prominent American farmer and former ambassador Kip Tom highlighted this pressing issue. With deep roots in rural production spanning several generations in the American Midwest, Tom underscored the importance of engagement among producers.
The session, titled “Agri-food Systems in the Americas: Future Perspectives and Opportunities for Producers,” was organized in collaboration with the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), a group that has established a strategic partnership with AAPRESID, advocating for sustainable agricultural practices for over three decades across millions of hectares in Argentina.
During the three-day event held at the “La Rural” venue, featuring over 100 conferences addressing various facets of agriculture, Tom encouraged participation from the hundreds of agricultural producers in attendance. He emphasized that continuous sharing of experiences and ideas among producers is crucial for advancement.
Identifying himself primarily as a farmer, Tom discussed the role of IICA in fostering resilience, building capacities, and driving collective action among Latin American and Caribbean countries.
Addressing the Climate Crisis
Tom asserted the critical role of farmers in implementing political decisions to ensure food availability and accessibility. He stated, “Farmers hold essential knowledge and play a vital role in addressing the climate crisis through their environmental stewardship.”
Highlighting the advancements in agricultural science and technology, Tom shared a personal anecdote reflecting on his family’s farm. He noted a significant increase in crop yields, attributing this progress to agricultural innovations in the Americas, which have yet to reach Africa.
Tom also addressed the necessity of international food trade without unnecessary restrictions that threaten food security and rural livelihoods. He urged that public policies must consider all dimensions of sustainability—economic, social, and environmental—creating an environment for farmers to thrive while protecting natural ecosystems.
“Appropriate public policies that encourage innovation and flexibility will empower farmers to preserve natural resources, enhance soil carbon levels, and positively influence agri-food systems. Farmers deserve recognition for their relentless pursuit of improvement and sustainability,” he concluded.
