Radio is the only means of communication for two thirds of people living in rural Africa, making it an essential and powerful platform that can help drive food security. Now, emerging technology is making it easier than ever for vital information to reach those who need it most.

In this episode, we explore how information can efficiently reach rural farmers, from trusted radio broadcasts to new AI-driven solutions, before closing out the year on a sweet note with sustainable chocolate.

Find out more: How technology is closing the rural information gap

Over one billion people on this planet have a disability, many of them in rural areas. Persons with disabilities play an essential role in food systems, yet many barriers remain to their full participation in rural societies.

In this episode, we explore how inclusive rural development changes lives – and what it means to build meaningful routes into agriculture. From training and awareness-raising to adapted agricultural tools, learn how IFAD strives to ensure that everyone has the chance to thrive in rural communities.

Find out more: How inclusive agriculture changes lives

Adaptation can seem daunting for rural businesses, but it’s a win-win. By adopting sustainable farming techniques like agroforestry, small-scale farmers can drive economic growth while protecting their land.

In the third episode in our “Life stories” mini-series, we head to the Peruvian Amazon to see adaptation in action. Join us as IFAD Recipes for Change chef Waldir Maqque meets with Ruth, whose farmers’ association has become a key player in the local cacao value chain with IFAD’s support.

Find out more: Life stories from Peru: Adapting with cacao - Episode 96

For small-scale farmers, resilience isn't just about preventing loses – it's about creating lasting value. That’s why climate adaptation is the key to prosperity, stability and shared growth.

As the world looks toward COP30, we unpack why adaptation is one of the smartest investments we can make – and how bold climate action drives thriving rural communities and economies. Plus, we meet with a small-scale farmer in Malawi who is dedicated to boosting rural youth employment.

Find out more: Why resilience pays off - Episode 95

Around the world, small-scale farmers are pushing our food systems to evolve. They’re the key to producing enough safe, nutritious food to feed the world sustainably.

In this episode, we explore how IFAD works hand in hand with rural communities to build a more nourishing future. Learn how innovative agroecology projects are driving economic growth and hear directly from IFAD’s President, Alvaro Lario, about how school meals are inextricably linked to resilient local food systems.

This episode continues our collaboration with the Global Donor Platform for Rural Development.  

Find out more: Ensuring safe, nutritious and sustainable food for all - Episode 94

Rural women are the innovators, leaders and changemakers at the core of our planet’s food systems. That’s why supporting them is essential to building a sustainable future.

In honour of the International Day of Rural Women, we’re celebrating their vital contributions. Join us as we explore how empowering women through training, access to resources and leadership opportunities leads to stronger rural communities and measurable improvements in income, food security and resilience. This episode continues our collaboration with the Global Donor Platform for Rural Development.

Find out more: Why investing in rural women is a trillion-dollar opportunity - Episode 93

One quarter of the global labour force works in agriculture, and they know it’s a stressful business. As agriculture becomes increasingly unpredictable, it’s essential to support the mental well-being of our farmers.

In this episode, we examine the psychological pressures facing farmers, from climate-related stress to market instability. We also highlight community-based solutions from StrongMinds in Uganda and Compañeros en Salud in Mexico, and speak with Dr. Britt Wray about the broader mental health impacts of the climate crisis.

Find out more:  Who’s looking out for our farmers’ mental health? - Episode 92

World leaders will gather in New York for 80th session of the UN General Assembly – where rural communities hit hard by climate change, conflict and hunger have a chance to be heard on the global stage.

In this episode, we hear from advocates who are taking action to amplify these rural voices. Join us as we discuss how rural development is financed, the power of building political movements and how we can keep food security high on the political agenda.

Find out more: Elevating rural voices on the global stage - Episode 91

In 2022, 1 billion meals a day were wasted, while 783 million people were affected by hunger. There’s plenty of food to go around – it’s just not getting to those who need it.

In this episode, we explore three powerful and distinct approaches to transforming our global food systems. Tune in to hear about blending traditional knowledge with modern innovation, using science to breed more resource-efficient crops and turning food waste into valuable resources.

Find out more: How do we feed more people with the food we already grow? - Episode 90

Around the world, young rural people aren't just waiting for change – they're making it happen themselves. 

In this special International Youth Day episode, we spotlight the next generation of agricultural leaders. Join us as we explore how young people are transforming food systems – and how organizations like IFAD support their vision. 

Find out more: Are we ready to listen to young rural people? – Episode 89