Álvario Lario

Dr. Álvario Lario is the President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), an international financial institution and specialized agency of the United Nations dedicated to eradicating rural poverty and enhancing food security. With a robust background in agricultural development, Dr. Lario has been pivotal in advancing IFAD's mission to support rural transformation and empower smallholder farmers globally. His leadership emphasizes innovative financing and strengthening partnerships with governments and private sectors to foster sustainable agricultural practices and economic growth. Recently, he engaged in discussions with Malawi's Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Ben Malunga Phiri, highlighting the importance of collaboration to enhance agricultural commercialization and rural livelihoods in Malawi.