What's Happening?
A report by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) highlights the urgent need for Africa to protect its crop diversity, which is critical for food security and climate resilience. The Third Report on the State of the World’s
Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture reveals that plant genetic diversity is declining at an alarming rate across the continent. This loss threatens the resilience of agrifood systems, which are essential for adapting to climate change. The report emphasizes the importance of locally adapted crop varieties, known as landraces, which are disappearing from farms. These varieties are often better suited to local conditions than commercial ones. The report calls for coordinated action to strengthen policies, invest in seed systems and genebanks, and support farmers as custodians of plant genetic diversity.
Why It's Important?
The decline in crop diversity poses a significant threat to food security and nutrition in Africa, as well as the continent's ability to adapt to climate change. The loss of plant genetic resources limits the options available to farmers, reducing their ability to respond to environmental changes and increasing the risk of food shortages. Protecting crop diversity is crucial for developing improved crop varieties that can withstand climate shocks. The report's findings highlight the need for urgent action to preserve these resources, which are vital for sustainable development and the livelihoods of millions of people across Africa.
