Enhance Food Security Research Articles

Accumulation of Heavy Metals in Tissues of Oreochromis Mossambicus from the uMgeni River and Human Health Risk Assessment

Metal enrichment in aquatic ecosystems has compromised the potential of fish to enhance food security. The uMgeni River drains urban and industrialized catchment and flows through economically disadvantaged rural communities that opt for fish to supplement their protein needs. However, there are uncertainties on the safety of consuming fish from the uMgeni River. The present study aims to explore metal distribution between the water, sediment, and tissues of the preferred Oreochromis mossambicus, and evaluate whether concentrations in the muscle are safe for human consumption. The water, sediment, and fish samples were collected from Inanda and Nagle dams, and metal concentrations were analysed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Alkaline pH was observed at both dams and metals were below detectable level in the water column. Even though metal concentrations in the water column were below detectable levels, significant concentrations were found in the sediment. No consistent trend in metal concentrations was observed across tissues, but higher levels were generally found in the liver, followed by the gill, and then the muscle. Nickel (Ni) and lead (Pb) exhibited concentrations exceeding the permissible limit for human consumption. Similarly, the target hazard quotient exceeded the threshold of 1 for Pb, chromium (Cr), and antimony (Sb) at both dams with Inanda Dam showing higher indices for Sb and Pb. The carcinogenic risk for the three metals was also found to be higher than 10–6. These findings suggest that consumption of O. mossambicus from the uMgeni River should be limited to no more than 150 g per week.

A Sustainable Agri-Photovoltaic Greenhouse for Lettuce Production in Qatar

Qatar identified that food supply security, including self-sufficiency in vegetable production and increasing sustainable renewable energy generation, is important for increasing economic and environmental resiliency. Very favorable solar energy resources in Qatar suggest opportunities to simultaneously meet this goal by integrating solar energy generation and food production. This study examines the feasibility of developing a sustainable agri-photovoltaic (APV) greenhouse design. A comprehensive greenhouse with solar energy generation included is developed for year-round operation in Lusail, Qatar. The performance of the system is predicted by integrating meteorological data and MATLAB simulations of system components. Important design considerations included optimizing solar energy generation by fixed solar photovoltaic panels placed on the maximum available surface area of the greenhouse canopy, while balancing crop insolation and energy needs for greenhouse HVAC systems. Electrical energy is also stored in an industrial battery. Results suggest the APV greenhouse is technically and economically viable and that it could provide benefits, including enhancing food security, promoting renewable energy, and contributing to sustainable food and energy production in Qatar.

A Preliminary Study on Perception of Non – Vegetarian Consumers about Backyard Poultry Farming

The present study was conducted in District Ludhiana of Punjab state to know about perception of non-vegetarian consumers about backyard poultry farming. The study was conducted by personally interviewing randomly selected Urban (Group A, n=50) and Rural (Group B, n=50) non vegetarian consumers. None of the respondent was above 60 years. Most of the non vegetarian consumers were having education level of graduation. Majority of the respondents were consuming non vegetarian food 1-2 times per week. Most of the Group A consumers were purchasing non vegetarian products from local market, while Group B consumers were purchasing it from farmers. Most of the Group A consumers has no knowledge about breeds of backyard poultry. A large chunk of consumers belonging to both Group A and Group B did not know about differences between exotic and indigenous breed. The present study highlighted the importance of strengthening of extension activities related with backyard poultry and strengthening of marketing linkages of backyard poultry farmers to the urban consumers. Fast-tracking the supply of a backyard poultry farmer’s produce to a city dweller’s doorstep ensures fresher, higher-quality food by reducing transit time, which helps to minimize spoilage and waste. It also expands market access for farmers, increases convenience for consumers, supports local economies, and can lower environmental impact by reducing transportation distances. Overall, it enhances food security and fosters a more efficient food system.

MULTIPARAMETRIC SIMULATION OPTIMIZATION OF AN IMPROVED SMALL HOLDING SOAP STAMPING-TABLETING MACHINE

The performance of a Soap Stamping-Tableting was quantified and optimized in this study to response surface methodology. The operational parameters evaluated were conveying speed, stamping and tableting speed, and time of operation while the tableting efficiency, throughput and specific energy consumption of the machine constitutes the responses variables. Response surface analysis was employed and the initial linear models developed augmented to quadratic models when it was established using the analysis of variance (ANOVA) and residual plots to estimate the performance of the soap stamping and tableting machine. The developed quadratic models were used to optimize the performance of the soap stamping and tableting machine using the D-optimality approach to establish the optimal factor settings of the soap stamping and tableting machine rounding up to the nearest whole number values are 351rpm, 21rpm, 55 minutes and an overall D-optimality value of 96 for the conveying speed, stamping and tableting speed and time of operation respectively. This soap stamping and tableting machine plays a crucial role in poverty alleviation and enhancing food security, directly contributing to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) number 1: Zero Hunger. By efficiently manufacturing and packaging soap, this machine enables the creation of small-scale soap businesses, providing income-generating opportunities for individuals in impoverished communities. The resulting economic empowerment helps lift people out of poverty, addressing the root causes of hunger. Additionally, improved hygiene through widespread access to affordable soap contributes to better health outcomes, further supporting the overarching goal of eradicating hunger and promoting sustainable development.

Analysis of co-operative irrigation farming and household food security in Africa: A PRISMA model approach

This study provides a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the relationship between co-operative irrigation farming and household food security in Africa. The research aims to identify key studies, authors, and thematic clusters, analyse the geographical distribution of research efforts, and evaluate the impact of co-operative irrigation farming on food security indicators. Utilizing the PRISMA model, data were systematically gathered from peer-reviewed publications indexed in the Dimensions database, focusing on materials published between 2019 and 2023. The study employed both bibliometric and descriptive-quantitative methodologies to analyse the data. The results reveal a significant positive impact of co-operative irrigation farming on improving household food security across various regions in Africa. The findings highlight the need for targeted policy interventions and sustainable agricultural practices that support co-operative irrigation efforts. A growing scholarly attention toward co-operative irrigation farming and household food security in recent years reveals a potentiality in finding a sustainable solution to food insecurity challenge. These insights are essential for shaping future research and informing policies aimed at enhancing food security through co-operative farming models in the African context.

Leveraging crop yield forecasts using satellite information for early warning in Senegal

Agricultural losses driven by climate variability and anthropogenic pressures have severely impacted food security in Senegal. There is a crucial need to generate early warning signals for the upcoming season to enhance food security in response to the sudden climate shocks like drought. In this study, we investigated the spatial distribution of maize and groundnut using factor analysis with a principal component approach. We aimed to identify suitable predictors of crop yields for the development of a seasonal yield prediction model. Subsequently, multi-regression analysis was performed to predict crop yield based on various combinations of satellite-derived vegetation and climate (rainfall) datasets as well as agronomic data from Senegal's 40 districts between 2010 and 2021. Studies revealed a strong correlation between seasonal rainfall (May to September) and crop yield: a 10–20% decline in rainfall can lead to crop losses. The accuracy of the yield prediction model, built on the best performing scenarios for each district based on monsoon onset, duration, and planting time, exceeded 0.5 (R-squared) for all districts when combining rainfall and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) data. The model prediction accuracy varied between 0.6 and 0.8 for major crop growing areas. The study emphasizes that refining the yield prediction model using machine learning techniques can improve its accuracy and enable its implementation in early warning systems. This enhanced capability could bolster Senegal's resilience to climate change by aiding decision-makers and planners in developing more effective strategies to ensure food security.

Harnessing technology for agricultural transformation: A design thinking approach to alleviate Nigeria's food crisis

The design thinking process is a human-centered, iterative methodology that designers use to solve problems and often results in an innovative approach to problem solving. Using a User Centered Design approach by applying the design thinking process, the researchers sought to know: 1. What national challenges were priority for Nigerians and 2. What solutions were best to tackle the problem that had the highest votes. To understand the need assessment, a survey form was designed and disseminated. A total of 406 participated in the poll, with over 70% votes for agriculture as the problem that requires urgent attention in Nigeria. Further research revealed post-harvest loss as a predominant problem in Nigeria’s agricultural sector. Key stakeholders in the sectors including farmers and agricultural experts were interviewed to further empathize, understand and redefine the problem. The design thinking process helped to refine the problem statement and identify other problems as well as potential solutions. From the survey, it was clear the majority of Nigerians who participated felt that agriculture and post-harvest loss were high priority needs that required urgent attention. Applying design thinking to prioritize agriculture in Nigeria reveals its power to address complex socio-economic issues effectively. By deeply understanding stakeholders' needs, clearly defining the problem, and iteratively developing and refining solutions, design thinking ensures that interventions in agriculture are not only relevant and impactful but also sustainable and scalable. This approach aligns perfectly with the urgent need for agricultural development in Nigeria to mitigate economic instability and enhance food security.

Impact of Fortified Yogurt on Micronutrient Deficits: A Survey on Food Security and Health in the Northeast of Iran

Background: Millions of people’s access to food is threatened by the prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies in food, particularly in low- and middle-income nations. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the socio-economic impact of fortified food products on improving the food security of consumers in these regions. Methods: This study examined the use of popular products, such as yogurt fortified with inactive baker’s yeast, from April 2023 to December 2023. A questionnaire was developed using a descriptive–inferential approach grounded in practical research. Results: The factors of expertise, level of education, and gender significantly influenced the enhancement of food security. Approximately 88% of the variations in food security enhancement factors were attributed to acceptance and consumption, food safety and health, and financial capability and pricing. Among these factors, the acceptance index made the greatest contribution to improving food security. Conclusions: Specialized communication and information operations are urgently needed in this area, considering the limited knowledge consumers have about the health effects of newly introduced fortified foods. Therefore, by addressing current shortcomings, this study can help planners, policymakers, and producers of fortified food items increase the demand for fortified goods and improve national food security.

Enhancing Coffee Agroforestry Systems Suitability Using Geospatial Analysis and Sentinel Satellite Data in Gedeo Zone, Ethiopia.

The Gedeo zone agroforestry systems are the main source of Ethiopia's coffee beans. However, land-use and suitability analyses are not well documented due to complex topography, heterogeneous agroforestry, and lack of information. This research aimed to map the coffee coverage and identify land suitability for coffee plantations using remote sensing, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) in the Gedeo zone, Southern Ethiopia. Remote sensing classifiers often confuse agroforestry and plantations like coffee cover with forest cover because of their similar spectral signatures. Mapping shaded coffee in Gedeo agroforestry using optical or multispectral remote sensing is challenging. To address this, the study identified and mapped coffee coverage from Sentinel-1 data with a decibel (dB) value matched to actual coffee coverage. The actual field data were overlaid on Sentinel-1, which was used to extract the raster value. Pre-processing, classification, standardization, and reclassification of thematic layers were performed to find potential areas for coffee plantation. Hierarchy levels of the main criteria were formed based on climatological, edaphological, physiographic, and socioeconomic factors. These criteria were divided into 14 sub-criteria, reclassified based on their impact on coffee growing, with their relative weights derived using AHP. From the total study area of 1356.2 km2, the mapped coffee coverage is 583 km2. The outcome of the final computed factor weight indicated that average annual temperature and mean annual rainfall are the primary factors, followed by annual mean maximum temperature, elevation, annual mean minimum temperature, soil pH, Land Use/Land Cover (LULC), soil texture, Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC), slope, Soil Organic Matter (SOM), aspect, distance to roads, and distance to water, respectively. The identified coffee plantation potential land suitability reveals unsuitable (413 km2), sub-suitable (596.1 km2), and suitable (347.1 km2) areas. This study provides comprehensive spatial details for Ethiopian cultivators, government officials, and agricultural extension specialists to select optimal coffee farming locations, enhancing food security and economic prosperity.

Nutrient Composition and Antioxidant Potential of Rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum L) Peel

The present study was conducted to assess the nutri-chemical composition and antioxidant potential of rambutan fruit (Nephelium lappaceum L) peel. Red rambutan fruit peel was used in fresh as well as dried form for the study. The nutri-chemical profiling revealed, fresh peel had 24g/100g of carbohydrate, 2.5g/100g of protein, 0.17g/100 g of fat and 0.89g/100g starch. However, dried peel had 55.45g/100g carbohydrate, 5.25g/100 protein, 10.2g/100g fat and 1.00g/100g starch. Crude fiber content of the fresh and dried peel was 0.77g/100g and 0.068g/100g respectively. Moreover, the fresh peel had higher moisture (73%) content than dried peel (4.2%). Vitamin C being heat liable, was found higher in fresh peel (9.31mg/100g). Sodium and potassium levels was found higher in dried peel powder as 1.55mg/100g and 9.4mg/100g respectively. Phytochemical composition of rambutan peel revealed that total polyphenol was higher in dried peel (580mg/100g) when compared to fresh (310 mg/100 g), meanwhile saponin, tannin and terpenoid was found higher in fresh peel as 47mg/100g, 390mg/100g and 5.101mg/100g respectively. Flavonoid content was dominant in dried peel (20.51mg/100g) than that of fresh peel (9.6mg/100 g). The radical-scavenging activity was expressed as IC50, which reported dried peel (43.79μg/100 mL) had strong antioxidant potential than fresh peel (184.39μg/100mL). However, it is concluded that rambutan peel is a potent source of nutrients, bioactive compounds and antioxidants which in turn has immense therapeutic benefits. Furthermore, valorisation of agri-food wastes and by- products can enhance food security and promote sustainable development.

Awareness and adoption of climate-resilient practices by smallholder farmers in central and upper Eastern Kenya

Climate change and soil fertility decline are major hurdles to agricultural ecosystems. Despite the importance of climate-resilient practices (CRPs) in enhancing food security, poverty alleviation and nutritional security, awareness and adoption remain low in most developing countries, including Kenya. We assessed the determinants of simultaneous awareness and adoption of CRPs and their intensity in Central Highlands of Kenya. The CRPs considered in this study were inorganic fertilizer and manure integration, manure, mulching, crop residues, cover crop, crop rotation and intercrop. The study used a cross-sectional survey design and collected data from 400 smallholders in Central Highlands of Kenya. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, multivariate probit and Poisson regression. Our findings showed that awareness and adoption of specific CRPs and their intensity were determined by occupation, age, farming experience, household size, soil fertility management, climate change adaptation, agricultural training, and geographical location. Smallholders’ agricultural training was an important determinant of awareness, adoption level, and intensity. Our findings underscored the need for agricultural policymakers and extension systems to design farmer-driven training programs for enhanced awareness and adoption of CRPs.

The Impact of Kano State Rural Development Policy in Kano South Senatorial District since 2023: An Assessment of Community Empowerment Initiatives Since 2023

This study analyzes the impact of community empowerment initiatives on the socioeconomic landscape of the Kano south senatorial district. Over the years, successive Kano state government has been implementing series of the rural development initiatives. Significant efforts have been directed towards fostering community empowerment in the Kano South Senatorial District. Preliminary findings from this study suggest that the rural development policy has yielded notable improvements in the provision of livelihoods, social cohesion, and enhancing economic opportunities within the communities of Kano South. Infrastructure projects have enhanced accessibility and connectivity, while vocational training programs have equipped residents with skills to engage in various income- generating activities. Moreover, the provision of improved healthcare services has contributed to better health outcomes among residents, leading to a healthier and more productive population. Agricultural support initiatives have also played a crucial role in enhancing food security and promoting sustainable farming practices. However, some challenges and areas needing improvement have also been identified, including issues related to sustainability, scalability, and long-term impact assessment of the community empowerment initiatives. Overall, this research provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of the rural development policy in Kano State, shedding light on the successes achieved and areas for further enhancement in empowering rural communities in the Kano South Senatorial District. The recommendation made through this paper could inform policymakers, academics, and development practitioners on the strategies that can be employed to bolster community empowerment efforts in other districts. Ultimately, the paper could contribute towards sustainable development and improved well-being for residents in rural areas.

Does Renewable Energy (RE) Contribute to Rural Livelihood? Evidence from Nepal

This study examines the contribution of renewable energy (RE) on rural livelihoods in Nepal using a mixed-methods approach with the consideration of socio-economic development and environmental sustainability. Data were gathered through household surveys, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions across various local levels in Nepal. The findings indicate that the adoption of RE technologies, particularly solar energy, has significantly improved agricultural productivity, income levels, and overall living standards. Solar-powered irrigation systems have enabled farmers to increase crop yields, enhancing food security and income diversification. The study highlights the essential role of community involvement and local governance in the successful implementation and sustainability of RE projects. Despite the initial high costs of RE technologies, the long-term benefits, including reduced energy costs and enhanced environmental sustainability, outweigh these challenges. The reduction in the use of traditional biomass fuels has led to improved air quality and health outcomes in rural households. This research highlights the potential of renewable energy to transform rural livelihoods in Nepal, advocating for continued support and investment in RE initiatives to ensure sustainable development in remote and underserved regions.

Phytosociological Study of Weed Communities in Zea Mays Cultivation: Contributions to Sustainable Development Goals (SDG'S) in the Ecuadorian Tropics

Objective: This study investigates the phytosociological characteristics of weed communities associated with Zea mays cultivation in different zones of the Ecuadorian tropics, aiming to identify and classify weeds to develop effective management strategies that enhance productivity while minimizing environmental impacts Theoretical Framework: The research is based on the concept that weeds, or 'noxious weeds,' significantly challenge maize cultivation by competing for essential resources. Theories related to plant competition and agroecosystem sustainability underpin the study Method: The methodology involves a phytosociological survey across five farms in Mocache, Ventanas, and Balzar. Using 45 quadrats of 50 x 50 cm in a zigzag pattern across one-hectare plots, weed species were identified and quantified. Data were analyzed to calculate biodiversity and importance value indices. Results and Discussion: Mocache had the highest weed population, while Balzar exhibited greater species diversity. Similarity indices, including Jaccard and Bray-Curtis, revealed distinct patterns in species distribution and dominance. These findings are discussed in the context of sustainable agriculture, highlighting the implications for weed management and acknowledging potential limitations due to environmental variability. Research Implications: The study provides insights into sustainable weed management in maize agroecosystems, contributing to strategies aligned with SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 15 (Life on Land), promoting practices that enhance food security and biodiversity conservation. Originality/Value: This research offers a novel phytosociological analysis of weed communities in tropical maize cultivation, contributing to sustainable agriculture and aligning with global sustainability goals.

Revolutionising agriculture for food security and environmental sustainability: A perspective on the role of digital twin technology

Abstract The agricultural sector faces escalating challenges from climate volatility, environmental degradation, and rising food demand. Digital twin (DT) technology offers a transformative solution by creating virtual replicas of farms for data-driven decision making, optimising crop management, and enhancing soil health. This study highlights key findings on DT’s role in improving agricultural efficiency, sustainability, and resilience. Global case studies demonstrate successful DT deployment, although challenges persist in developing countries. Recommendations are provided to overcome these barriers. Ultimately, DTs are crucial for advancing sustainable farming, enhancing food security, mitigating environmental impacts, and aligning agriculture with global conservation and food security goals.

Rice yield prediction through integration of biophysical parameters with SAR and optical remote sensing data using machine learning models

In an era marked by growing global population and climate variability, ensuring food security has become a paramount concern. Rice, being a staple crop for billions of people, requires accurate and timely yield prediction to ensure global food security. This study was undertaken across two rice crop seasons in the Udham Singh Nagar district of Uttarakhand state to predict rice yield at 45, 60 and 90 days after transplanting (DAT) through machine learning (ML) models, utilizing a combination of optical and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) data in conjunction with crop biophysical parameters. Results revealed that the ML models were able to provide relatively accurate early yield estimates. For summer rice, eXtreme gradient boosting (XGB) was the best-performing model at all three stages (45, 60, and 90 DAT), while for kharif rice, the best-performing models at 45, 60, and 90 DAT were XGB, Neural network (NNET), and Cubist, respectively. The combined ranking of ML models showed that prediction accuracy improved as the prediction date approaches harvest, and the best prediction of yield was observed at 90 DAT for both summer and kharif rice. Overall rankings indicate that for summer rice, the top three models were XGB, NNET, and Support vector regression, while for kharif rice, these were Cubist, NNET, and Random Forest, respectively. The findings of this study offer valuable insights into the potential of the combined use of remote sensing and biophysical parameters using ML models, which enhances food security planning and resource management by enabling more informed decision-making by stakeholders such as farmers, policy planners as well as researchers.

Enhancing food security through scientific research in Algeria. A novel vision and unified national strategy

In this viewpoint we present the Algerian approach adopted to achieve a useful collaboration between researchers and socioeconomic partners to ensure food security.

Actuation Drones in Agriculture: Advancing Precision Pest Management through Biocontrol and Modern Techniques

As global food demand surges, agricultural technology is essential for addressing challenges like environmental degradation, pollution, and water scarcity. Drones, or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), present a promising solution for precision agriculture by providing real-time, accurate data that enhances decision-making in crop management. In pest control, drones offer targeted delivery of natural enemies and biopesticides, improving efficiency and reducing reliance on chemical pesticides. This precision can lead to increased crop yields, reduced environmental impact, and improved livelihoods for farmers by lowering operational costs and optimizing resource use. Despite their potential, adopting drone technology in agriculture faces regulatory challenges, such as the need for certifications, flight restrictions, and operational guidelines. Addressing these regulatory hurdles is crucial for broader implementation. Moreover, collaboration among stakeholders—including researchers, policymakers, agricultural extension workers, and industry players—is vital for advancing drone-assisted pest management and ensuring its practical adoption in diverse farming environments. As we navigate these challenges, actuation drones hold immense promise for transforming pest management practices globally, contributing to sustainable agriculture and enhanced food security. Further research, development, and stakeholder engagement are necessary to fully realize the potential of drones in integrated pest management (IPM) systems.

Undernutrition and associated factors among lactating mothers in Chiro district, eastern Ethiopia: a community-based cross-sectional study.

Maternal undernutrition during lactation is a worldwide public health problem. It causes impaired cognitive ability, poor productivity, irreversible loss, and intergenerational malnutrition, which has harmful effects on the next generation. Overall, there is little information on undernutrition and risk factors among lactating mothers, especially in resource-poor settings, including Ethiopia. This study assessed undernutrition and associated factors among lactating mothers in rural Chiro district, eastern Ethiopia. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 629 lactating mothers in the Chiro district from July 2-30, 2019. Data were collected from participants using pretested, structured questionnaires and anthropometric measurements. Data were entered using EpiData version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS version 27. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with undernutrition. Undernutrition among lactating mothers was 26.9% (95% CI: 23.2%, 30.2%). Female-headed household (AOR = 0.34, 95% CI:0.13, 0.94), medium (AOR = 0.58, 95% CI: 0.38, 0.95) and rich (AOR = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.18, 0.51) wealth quintiles, lack of dietary advice (AOR = 1.62, 95% CI: 1.10, 2.39), chewing khat (AOR = 1.82, 95% CI: 1.23, 2.70), low dietary diversity (AOR = 3.10, 95% CI: 1.82, 5.29), and household food insecurity (AOR = 3.67, 95% CI:1.47, 9.20) were factors significantly associated with undernutrition. Around one in every four lactating mothers in rural eastern Ethiopia had undernutrition. Poor wealth, lack of dietary feeding advice, substance use disorder, low minimum dietary diversity, and household food insecurity were factors significantly associated with the undernutrition of lactating mothers. Thus, focusing on implementing existing strategies/programs for effective nutritional interventions and poverty alleviation that enhance food security status would be essential to improving the nutritional status of lactating mothers and children.

Moderating Effect of Strategic Linkages on Corporate Leadership and Organizational Performance in Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO)

The urgency of securing safe, affordable, reliable, and nutritious food amid a growing global population and shrinking land productivity underscores the pivotal role of corporate leadership in fostering strategic partnerships and organizational performance. This is crucial for organizations like Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) to enhance performance and drive agricultural innovation that ensure achievement of national targets and mandate. Understanding the dynamics between leadership effectiveness, strategic alliances, and organizational performance is essential for addressing food security challenges and optimizing the impact of agricultural research institutions worldwide. The projected 27% increase in global population by 2050 emphasizes the need for strong corporate leadership and strategic partnerships to ensure balanced diets for over half a billion smallholder farmers. Despite Kenya's higher productivity than East Africa and Africa averages, challenges remain in enhancing food security through effective leadership and strategic alliances, particularly within institutions like KALRO. The study explored the moderating influence of strategic linkages on the relationship between corporate leadership and the performance of KALRO. Rooted in organizational excellence, upper echelons, legitimacy, and stakeholder theories, the research employed a pragmatic philosophy, and mixed methods design to mitigate bias. The target population included 75 management organs, with 60 directors and 188 top leadership units as units of observation. Quantitative analysis, using a composite regression model and ANOVA, revealed a significant impact of strategic linkages on corporate leadership and KALRO's performance. The study verified consistent variances and normality across variables, supporting parametric analyses. Autocorrelation analysis indicated no significant autocorrelation. Multicollinearity tests showed acceptable values, ensuring the reliability of the regression model. No outliers were detected. Cronbach's alpha scores demonstrated strong internal reliability. Significant correlations confirmed associations between variables, aligning with previous research findings. Strategic linkages emerged as enhanced moderator, explaining 69.4% of the variance. In this case, the moderator variable amplified or strengthened the relationship between corporate leadership and organizational performance of KALRO. Rejecting the null hypothesis highlighted the positive impact of strategic linkages on performance. Conditional effects analysis revealed strong corporate leadership influence at low strategic linkages but diminishing at higher levels. Recommendations encompassed gender diversity, inclusive leadership development, regular performance appraisals, enhanced monitoring and evaluation system, and improved linkages. The findings provide valuable guidance for KALRO's leadership amid competing priorities and budgetary constraints.