Bridging the Gap Between Science and the Field: A Conversation with Mr Alain Traore, IFDC

One of the recurring themes at the recent APPFS gathering held in the sidelines of the Global Phosphorus Stakeholders’ Forum, was a gap that soil scientists themselves acknowledge: the knowledge exists, but it rarely reaches those who need it most.

“The knowledge is only amongst them,” said Mr. Alain Traore, Director of the Soil Value Program at IFDC, reflecting on what he observed during the conference sessions. “The extension services on the ground — those who are in direct contact with farmers and farmers’ organizations — are not yet benefiting from it.”

For Mr. Traore, addressing this disconnect is the most urgent task for the African Phosphorus Platform for Food Security. The priority, in his view, is straightforward: translate scientific findings into practical, field-ready solutions, starting with the people who reach farmers directly. “Organizing training of trainers — those who will translate technologies and innovations for the benefit of farmers — should be the first and quickest action the platform undertakes,” he said.

On IFDC’s role, Mr. Traore was clear about the organization’s commitment. IFDC plans to engage at the platform level by first activating its network across member organizations, then contributing to the development of a roadmap grounded in the priorities identified during the meeting. “We will go into action,” he said.