Harnessing biotechnology and breeding strategies for climate-resilient agriculture: pathways to sustainable global food security
Kelvin Ngongolo, Gideon Sadikiel Mmbando
Abstract
Climate change poses a critical threat to global food security, intensifying the vulnerability of agricultural systems. As traditional crop varieties buckle under the strain of erratic temperature shifts, altered rainfall, and increasingly violent weather, the urgency for innovative solutions grows. Climate-smart agriculture emerges as a vital response, yet the path forward feels uncertain, shadowed by the scale of these challenges. This review delves into the cutting-edge breeding strategies aimed at bolstering crop resilience, with genomic and biotechnological innovations taking center stage. Developing crops that can endure heat, drought, and salinity is crucial, but the stakes are high. The hope is that these innovations will stabilize yields and foster sustainable practices, though the outcomes remain unclear. For policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders, the question lingers: Will these advancements be enough to navigate the growing storm of food insecurity?