What's Happening?
The Power of Diversity Funding Facility, backed by €10 million from Germany's KfW Development Bank and €2 million from Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs, is focusing on the conservation, production,
and consumption of high-potential opportunity crops. These crops, such as Colombia's peach palm and Nigeria's fonio, are resilient, nutrient-rich, and deeply tied to local traditions but have been overlooked by research and investment. The initiative, launched by the Crop Trust, involves over 250 farmers, scientists, and policymakers across seven countries. National partners have convened dialogues to select crops that should be prioritized, supported by the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT. The selected crops include cowpea, sorghum, amaranth, finger millet, horse gram, yams, and others, chosen for their nutritional value and market potential.
Why It's Important?
This initiative is significant as it addresses the challenges of food security and agricultural resilience in the face of climate change and economic instability. By focusing on opportunity crops, the Power of Diversity Funding Facility aims to open economic opportunities for farmers and deliver benefits to communities, while safeguarding the future of food systems. These crops can enhance dietary diversity, improve nutrition, and strengthen resilience against environmental stresses. The project also aims to improve seed availability, conduct nutritional studies, and engage consumers, thereby strengthening value chains and promoting these crops on a larger scale.
What's Next?
The next phase of the Power of Diversity Funding Facility will focus on securing the diversity of selected crops in genebanks and ensuring their availability to breeders and farmers. Project activities will include improving seed availability, conducting nutritional studies, and engaging with consumers to promote these crops. Knowledge will be shared with national policymakers to help give opportunity crops the recognition they deserve, both within partner countries and globally. This phase aims to build on the momentum of the initial selection process and further integrate these crops into food systems.
Beyond the Headlines
The initiative highlights the ethical and cultural dimensions of agricultural development, emphasizing the importance of preserving traditional crops that are integral to local cultures and diets. By promoting these crops, the project not only supports food security but also contributes to the conservation of agricultural biodiversity. This approach aligns with global efforts to create sustainable food systems that respect cultural heritage and promote environmental sustainability.
