Telefónica and the FAO have signed an alliance to collaborate in the development and implementation of innovation, digitization and data analysis initiatives in the agricultural sector.

United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and Spain’s Telefonica, one of the world’s largest telecommunications companies, have agreed to work together to leverage the use of cutting-edge digital technologies for agricultural development, food security and nutrition, and specifically, prepare and strengthen farmers in the face of extreme weather events related to climate change. An agreement signed on 12th February by FAO Director General, José Graziano da Silva, and Telefonica’s Global Director of Public Affairs Strategy, Trinidad Jiménez, foresees joint initiatives.“This partnership will help us face one of the greatest current challenges in the fight against hunger, poverty and the effects of climate change in agriculture. Access to reliable information, including that related to changing weather patterns, is essential to empower farmers, especially those who live in developing countries,” Graziano da Silva said. The agreement, which has an initial duration of three years, includes three main areas: * Application of the Internet of Things - the digital interconnection of everyday objects to the Internet - to the agricultural sector to optimize processes and make more efficient use of natural resources. * Use of Big Data - management and analysis of a huge and varied amount of data - on weather patterns to establish early warning systems. * Digital education and capacity building: part of FAO’s educational content will be incorporated into Telefónica’s open training platforms.