IFAD Launches New Funding Drive to Boost Rural Jobs and Food Security

The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) has opened consultations for its 14th replenishment cycle (IFAD14), with President Alvaro Lario urging Member States to show bold collective ambition and scale up investments in rural transformation as global food systems face growing instability.

Speaking at the launch of IFAD14 consultations, Lario said stronger rural economies are essential for food security, employment creation and global stability amid geopolitical fragmentation, shrinking fiscal space and increasing climate and conflict shocks.

"IFAD14 is not simply another replenishment cycle. It is a test of collective capacity to act with realism, unity and purpose in a more uncertain world," Lario said.

"There is no lasting national stability without shared global stability and there is no shared stability without vibrant rural economies."

Strategic Focus: Markets, Youth Jobs and Resilience

Lario outlined a clear direction for IFAD14, calling for deeper investment in three priority areas:

• Connecting small-scale producers to markets and food value chains

• Expanding rural employment, particularly for youth

• Strengthening resilience to climate, conflict and economic shocks

He warned that rural opportunity is central to shaping the stability of entire regions, especially where youth unemployment and food insecurity intersect.

Chad Makes First Pledge With Increased Contribution

The Republic of Chad delivered the first pledge to IFAD14, announcing an 11 percent increase from its previous IFAD13 contribution, bringing its commitment to US$500,000.

"This increase reflects the importance of agricultural and rural development as a national priority for Chad," said Keda Ballah, Minister of Agricultural Production and Transformation.

He noted that agricultural investment is a core pillar of Chad's national development plan, Connection 2030, and urged other Member States to follow suit.

"The early and increased pledge from Chad is a strong signal of the trust member states place on IFAD's ability to deliver impact," Lario said.

Broad Global Support for IFAD Replenishments

IFAD replenishments are among the most widely supported in the international financial system, typically drawing contributions from more than 100 countries.

Over 65 low-income and lower-middle-income countries contributed to IFAD13, reflecting the confidence placed in the Fund's ability to deliver results in the world's poorest rural regions.

Financing Rural Transformation 2028–2030

Resources pledged under IFAD14 will finance IFAD's programme for 2028 to 2030, combining:

• Public donor contributions

• Co-financing from partners

• Private sector capital mobilisation

The goal is to expand the reach and impact of rural development projects, particularly for smallholder farmers, rural enterprises and agribusinesses.

Nearly 50 Years of Proven Impact

IFAD's case for investment highlights its nearly five-decade record of reducing poverty and building prosperity in rural communities.

Recent impact assessments show strong outcomes for project participants:

• 34% increase in income

• 35% improvement in market access

• 35% increase in production

These gains demonstrate the potential of targeted rural investment to strengthen food systems, boost economic growth and improve livelihoods.

As consultations begin, IFAD is calling on governments to match rising global challenges with increased investment in rural economies — positioning IFAD14 as a defining opportunity to build resilience, jobs and stability through agriculture.