IICA's New Chief Pledges Science-Led Agricultural Transformation

SAN JOSE, Costa Rica – January 16, 2026 – In a ceremony marked by high-level international support, Guyanese agronomist Muhammad Ibrahim officially assumed office today as the new Director General of the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA). Witnessed by ministers and senior officials from over thirty nations, Ibrahim began his 2026-2030 term with a powerful pledge to deepen science-based cooperation and forge more competitive, efficient, and sustainable agrifood systems throughout the Americas.

Ibrahim takes the reins from outgoing Director General Manuel Otero, who was praised for his transformative eight-year tenure. The inauguration at IICA's headquarters was a significant diplomatic event, with dignitaries including Costa Rican Vice-President Mary Munive Angermüller, Guyanese Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha, and Brazil's Deputy Minister of Agriculture Cleber Soares, who administered the oath of office.

A Vision for a Resilient Hemisphere

In his inaugural address, Ibrahim laid out a forward-looking vision centered on collaboration, innovation, and accountability. He emphasized a nuanced approach to leadership, acknowledging the diverse needs of the vast region IICA serves.

"I accept this tremendous responsibility with gratitude, humility and a profound sense of purpose," Ibrahim stated. "I am going to be a Director General for all the Americas, recognizing that we need differentiated strategies for each region of the hemisphere."

This commitment to tailored strategies is seen by experts as a crucial evolution in addressing the unique agricultural challenges and opportunities from the Caribbean islands to the vast plains of South America. Ibrahim promised to build on the Institute's legacy, vowing to "raise the bar of excellence of the Institute even more, to strengthen joint work with the countries and to close the gaps to ensure more sustainable agrifood systems." His leadership philosophy, he added, would be guided by "transparency, financial prudence and accountability."

A Legacy of Science and Collaboration

Ibrahim is no stranger to the complexities of regional agriculture. He brings over 35 years of distinguished experience in agricultural development, international cooperation, and public policy. His career is a testament to a deep-seated belief in translating scientific research into practical, on-the-ground solutions. Before his new appointment, he served as IICA's Director of Technical Cooperation and, notably, as Director General of the Tropical Agricultural Research and Higher Education Center (CATIE) for eight years.

During his leadership at CATIE, Ibrahim was credited with mobilizing over US$250 million in development financing, demonstrating a keen ability to forge strategic alliances and secure the resources necessary for large-scale impact. A prolific author and respected academic with a Ph.D. from the prestigious Wageningen University in the Netherlands, his expertise spans critical areas like agroecology, climate-smart agriculture, and sustainable livestock systems—fields that are central to the future of agriculture in the Americas.

His appointment is viewed as a signal that IICA will intensify its focus on tackling the intersection of climate change, food insecurity, and rural development. His proven capacity to lead complex institutions and his role in representing the region at global forums like the G20 and UNFCCC climate conferences position him to be a powerful advocate for the hemisphere's agricultural sector on the world stage.

Building on a Strengthened Foundation

The transition in leadership comes at a time when IICA's strategic importance is widely recognized. Ibrahim's predecessor, Manuel Otero, was lauded for a successful tenure that repositioned agriculture as a cornerstone of regional stability and prosperity. A message from the U.S. government highlighted this progress, noting, "During Dr. Otero's eight-year tenure, relationships and partnerships were strengthened for the benefit of the Western Hemisphere, agriculture was positioned as a strategic sector, and cooperation in the Americas was enhanced based on science and trust."

Under Otero, IICA's technical cooperation projects reportedly benefited approximately 10 million farmers and rural stakeholders, focusing on science and technology to drive progress. Ibrahim acknowledged this foundation, paying tribute to Otero's work in positioning IICA as a benchmark institution for agricultural development.

This continuity, combined with Ibrahim's renewed focus, suggests an era of accelerated progress. The U.S. statement further underscored the path forward: "We look forward to working with Dr. Ibrahim in the Member States to ensure that agriculture remains a pillar for security, prosperity and opportunities. We have the land, the people and the expertise, and when we put farmers first, we win."

Navigating a Complex Agricultural Landscape

Ibrahim's leadership begins as the Americas confronts a formidable set of challenges. Climate change is manifesting in more frequent extreme weather events, threatening harvests and livelihoods. Persistent food insecurity, market access barriers for smallholders, and significant technological gaps between different regions demand sophisticated and cooperative solutions.

However, the region is also ripe with opportunity. The rise of agritech, growing global demand for sustainably produced food, and the potential of the bioeconomy offer new pathways for growth. Argentina's Deputy Secretary of Agrifood Markets, Agustín Tejeda, highlighted this dynamic, stating that IICA plays a "fundamental role" in helping countries implement "science- and evidence-based public policies" to improve competitiveness.

Ibrahim's deep background in sustainable resource management and climate resilience is seen as perfectly matched to this moment. His expertise is expected to guide IICA in helping member states not only mitigate risks but also capitalize on emerging trends in regenerative agriculture and digital transformation.

Broad Support Signals a Cooperative Future

The widespread and high-level support for Ibrahim's appointment sends a strong signal of unity and shared purpose across the hemisphere. Guyanese President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, speaking via video, congratulated his fellow countryman and remarked on IICA's "critical role" as a "pillar for development." Guyana's Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, who also chairs the CARICOM agricultural task force, celebrated Ibrahim as "the first Guyanese to lead this prestigious institution," noting his career is "a testament to the tremendous potential that exists in our region."

This sentiment was echoed across the Caribbean. The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) had previously endorsed Ibrahim as a "distinguished Caribbean son" capable of addressing the unique vulnerabilities of small island nations. Leaders from Trinidad and Tobago expressed confidence that his leadership would inspire a new generation of youth to pursue careers in agriculture.

The presence of officials from Brazil, Argentina, the United States, and host country Costa Rica, alongside former IICA Directors General, underscores a broad consensus on the Institute's vital mission. This collective endorsement provides a powerful mandate for Director General Ibrahim as he embarks on his mission to cultivate a more productive, sustainable, and equitable agricultural future for all the Americas.