The programme “Linking agrobiodiversity value chains, climate adaptation and nutrition: Empowering the poor to manage risk” is supported by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the European Union (EU) from 2015-2018. The initiative aims to strengthen the capacities of farmers to manage risks associated with climate change, poor nutrition status and economic disempowerment through agrobiodiversity-based solutions. Local food systems will be revitalized with promotion of sustainable agriculture and resilient livelihood practices, working with smallholder farmers and indigenous peoples who are the primary custodians of global agricultural biodiversity.

The Project is working on kodo (Paspalum scrobiculatum) and little millet (Panicum sumatrense) in India, Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea) and fonio (Digitaria sp.) in Mali, and tepary bean (Phaseolus acutifolius) and Mayan spinach (Cnidoscolus aconitifolius) in Guatemala. These crops have high nutritional profiles, good appreciation in local food cultures, and can respond to the effects of climate change such as soil degradation and unpredictable rains. In order to promote more nutritionally balance diets, a special attention will also be dedicated to identify other underutilized crops, particularly vegetables, fruits and pulses for promotion in the first year of the Project.