Biofortified corn crop in Colombia (Photo: CIMMYT)
CIMMYT, in collaboration with the Bioversity-CIAT Alliance and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of Colombia, is contributing to the Sustainable Agri-Food Colombia project. This transformative initiative aims to reshape Colombia’s agricultural sector by fostering sustainable and resilient agri-food systems. Several research institutions are also part of this mission as strategic implementing partners.
The goal of Sustainable Agri-Food Colombia is to address the environmental and productionchallenges facing Colombian agriculture, while ensuring food security and sustainability. Through the implementation of innovative technologies, better agricultural practices and adaptation to climate change, it aims to improve the competitiveness of Colombian producers and reduce pressure on natural resources. In this sense, the project contributes to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially those related to climate action, life on earth and reducing inequalities.
CIMMYT is collaborating in this project to join efforts to strengthen farmers’ capacities, as Sustainable Agri-Food Colombia focuses not only on agricultural production, but on the entire agri-food system, seeking to build more inclusive and efficient value chains, from production to the consumer, emphasizing community participation and knowledge transfer in an inclusive manner, involving women, youth and marginalized rural communities in decision-making processes and technology adoption.
The collaboration between international CGIAR research centers, such as the Bioversity-CIAT Alliance and CIMMYT, together with key stakeholders in Colombia, demonstrates that the future of agriculture depends on an integrated vision that combines science, innovation and collaboration. This lays the foundation for transforming agriculture and food in Colombia for the benefit of people and the planet.
Tichaona transporting hay bales using his acquired two-wheel tractor (Photo: Dorcas Matangi, CIMMYT)
In the heart of Mbire’s Ward 2 in Zimbabwe, Tichaona Makuwerere has earned the trust of his community, not just as a farmer but also as a resourceful problem-solver. His journey began with “piece jobs” — manual labor that barely made ends meet. From providing firewood and bricks to renting an ox-drawn cart, Tichaona’s days were filled with tough and gritty work. Occasionally, he crossed into Zambia to collect baobab fruit for sale, returning with livestockpesticides, which he traded locally.
However, stability remained elusive. Jobs were scarce, and community hiring often favored personal connections. Undeterred, Tichaona turned to self-employment in 2007, offering ox-drawn ripping services to farmers. His commitment didn’t go unnoticed. When the CGIAR Agroecology Initiative (AEI) came to Mbire, the community recognized Tichaona’s entrepreneurial spirit and nominated him as a service provider.
AE-I brings together farmers and stakeholders to address local challenges and develop practical solutions in Mbire and Murewa. Through Agroecological Living Landscapes (ALLs)—collaborative spaces for innovation—various stakeholders work to identify, co-design, test, and adopt agroecological practices. One challenge identified was that agroecology can be labor-intensive, highlighting the need to reduce labor demands by integrating mechanization for manual activities such as crop planting, manure transportation, and threshing. Partnering with private sector organizations like Kurima Machinery, AE-I provides farmers in Mbire and Murewa with the tools and training necessary to make mechanized services more accessible.
Equipped for success through training and support
Tichaona’s journey with AE-I began with intensive training at Gwebi College of Agriculture in Zimbabwe, where he learned the intricacies of machine operation, repair, and business management. The hands-on experience gave him the confidence he needed. “It was a turning point,” said Tichaona. “The training gave me skills that are hard to come by here. I learned how to run and sustain an agricultural service business.”
In addition, Kurima Machinery provided practical guidance and support when delivering his new equipment kit, which included a two-wheel tractor, trailer, grass cutter, chopper grinder, ripper, thresher, and basin digger. Although Tichaona had no prior experience with engines, his determination, along with Kurima’s ongoing virtual support, helped him develop the skills needed to operate and maintain the equipment.
Scaling up from oxen to efficient mechanization
The kit has dramatically transformed Tichaona’s way of working. Where he once struggled with oxen, the two-wheel tractor can now complete a three-hour task in just 30 minutes. This leap in efficiency has enabled him to expand his services beyond ripping and transportation. Tichaona now offers grass cutting, baling, grinding, threshing, and basin digging services.
Mechanization has not only streamlined his business but also significantly increased his clientele. Previously, he served around 50 clients per year; now, with the tractor, he supports over 200 annual clients, many of whom are repeat customers. In a region where animal feed is scarce during the dry season, Tichaona’s baling services have become especially valuable. Over the past year, he has produced more than 3,000 bales, even attracting safari operators who use the bales as bait for animals.
“Hatisi kumira kutsvaga mabasa” (We keep going forward and look for new jobs), Tichaona reflected with pride. In his drive to grow, he has further diversified his services to include grinding forest products such as Faidherbia albida, acacia, and Piliostigma thonningii pods, producing affordable livestock feed for farmers. He acquired these skills during livestock feed production training at the ALLs.
Mechanization has not only improved productivity but also mitigated environmental risks. Grass cutting and baling have curbed the practice of uncontrolled burning, which previously caused frequent veld fires in Mbire and Murehwa. In recognition of the project’s success in promoting sustainable land use, the Environmental Management Authority (EMA) has invested in additional service kits for other wards.
Transporting grass bales in Mbire for local farmers (Photo: Dorcas Matangi, CIMMYT)
Strengthening Resilience Amid Climate Uncertainty
Tichaona’s services have become indispensable in a community grappling with erratic weather patterns and prolonged droughts. By baling grass, sorghum stalks, and crop residues, he enables farmers to store feed for their livestock, mitigating risks during drought seasons. The benefits extend beyond livestock care—his machinery has helped farmers expand cultivable areas despite a shrinking planting season.
Moreover, Tichaona has stepped up as a water carrier during the dry months. With wells drying up, villagers often dig makeshift wells in distant riverbeds. Using his tractor, Tichaona fetches water from the borehole for the community. His efforts free up time for farmers to focus on land preparation and other critical tasks, boosting their productivity.
Building a Lasting Legacy at the Community Level
Tichaona’s success has translated into significant improvements for his family. His increased income has allowed him to build a new home and purchase land in Guruve town. He has also invested in goats for his children as a form of social security. “Kudya kaviri kwaitonetsa, ikozvino takutodya uye atichatenderi kuti muenzi asvika abve pamba asina kudya (We could barely afford two meals a day, but now we eat more than four meals. We ensure that no visitor leaves without eating),” he shared.
His generosity extends beyond his family. Tichaona provides free transportation for vulnerable residents, including the elderly, and offers free grinding services to low-income families. These acts of kindness have solidified his reputation as a respected and valued member of the community.
A Model of Adaptability and Determination
Tichaona’s journey has not been without challenges. Mechanical issues, such as trailer body wear, brake replacements, and two-wheel tractor bearing failures, have tested his resourcefulness. He stocks essential spare parts, conducts regular maintenance, and leverages Kurima Machinery’s support network for troubleshooting and repairs. Collaborating with other AE-I operators, he shares tips and techniques for maintaining machinery, ensuring consistent and reliable services.
As his confidence and skills grow, Tichaona is planning to expand his offerings. He envisions adding oil pressing for sunflower and groundnut as well as peanut butter production. Already, he has invested in a grinding mill operated by his wife, allowing him to focus on field services. His ambitions extend to poultry farming, where he plans to use his chopper grinder to produce feed, incorporating local products into his supply chain.
“Ndine hurongwa hukuru” (I have bigger plans ahead), Tichaona said. He dreams of drilling a borehole to support horticultureproduction, a venture that would benefit not only his family but also nearby farmers by providing easier access to water. His ultimate goal is to establish a comprehensive agricultural service hub, offering everything from land preparation to livestock feed production, to strengthen the community’s resilience.
A Model for Agroecological Transformation
Tichaona’s story exemplifies the far-reaching impact of empowering local service providers in rural agriculture. Through the CGIAR Agroecology Initiative, he transformed from being a community handyman to a pioneering agricultural entrepreneur in Mbire. His contributions not only enhanced agricultural efficiency and overall life for himself and his community, but also offered a blueprint for sustainable development in agriculture. His story reminds us that when local expertise is supported and equipped, it can transform communities into models of resilience and sustainable growth.
The foundation for a Vision for Adapted Crops and Soil (VACS) is capacity building: to boost adoption of opportunity crops, for nutritional security, diverse and climate-resilient cropping systems, to build healthy soils, a cohort of researchers and professionals is being supported to improve opportunity crops in Africa. Launched in October 2024 in Nairobi, Kenya, the VACS Capacity Project aims to train scholars and professionals in the latest plant breeding technologies. Professor Julia Sibiya, VACS Capacity Project Lead at CIMMYT, elaborates on how the project aims to contribute to the promotion, development and delivery of improved “crops that nourish” people, and the planet.
As part of the VACS Capacity Project, 30 Master and PhD students will be mentored by prominent experts in plant breeding. What support will they receive?
The students will be exposed to the latest technologies in plant breeding but will also learn from their mentors to deliver the VACS vision on opportunity crops and healthy soils.
The project also includes training of 40 mid-careers professionals. We want them to master the latest technologies and be able to apply them to develop improved opportunity crop varieties that will be used by farmers.
For maximum and long-term impact, the CIMMYT Academy, with the support of the Sustainable Agrifood Systems program, is developing gender-aware mentoring and curriculum on a wide range of topics, to directly address priorities of the 70 scholars and professionals. Expertise is being sourced at institutions such as Iowa State University, CIMMYT and African universities for robust e-learning modules on the entire plant breeding pipeline and seed systems, with materials updated and designed for the African continent.
What gaps does the VACS Capacity Project aim to address?
Today, in Africa, very few plant breeders and scientists working on plant improvement are focusing on the opportunity crops identified by VACS, such as finger millet, bambara groundnut, and amaranth. Most breeders focus on the main staples. This is why we want to build a critical mass of scientists who work on opportunity crops that are vital for food security and nutrition under climate change.
Besides increasing the critical mass of researchers working on the opportunity crops, we also want to bring up-to-date the skills of professionals in the breeding sector, which is a sector where technologies are evolving very quickly. Most of the approaches to crop improvement used today differ greatly from approaches used ten years ago, hence the request by many professionals to upgrade their skills.
In addition to the long-term training fellowships for Master and PhD students, we will provide targeted skills training to professionals, with short-term placements between one and six months in institutions where they can learn cutting-edge techniques that they will apply to opportunity crops.
The project is also designed to build networks and communities of practice around these crops, so people can collaborate in breeding and scaling efforts that are requested by farmers and consider market intelligence for impact pathways. This is in addition to exchanging knowledge and germplasm.
How does this project differ from other plant breeding capacity building projects?
The difference is that we will place professionals into institutions where they will be provided with hands-on training. We will work with universities, international research institutes, and the private sector, including seed companies. This is like offering internships to mid-career professionals who want to upgrade their skills or learn new ones.
Our approach also includes mentorships for both scholars and professionals. Mentors will be recruited from all over the world to assist the fellows in various aspects of their research journey. Last but not least, we hope to see researchers working with farmers so they can learn from each other.
What are the expected outcomes of reaching a “critical mass of plant breeders”?
The objective is to have sufficient breeders to implement crop breeding programs designed for opportunity crops. We also want to encourage them to apply modern techniques to improve opportunity crops and, this way, to contribute to the development of more nutritious plants that are grown in healthy soils. As I mentioned earlier, besides empowering scientists themselves, we also aim to create the conditions for effective collaboration and partnerships for the successful delivery of improved opportunity crop varieties, and this delivery will be accelerated by reducing the breeding cycle. Overall, it will allow us to scale up efforts towards opportunity crops worldwide.
The Africa Dryland Crops Improvement Network (ADCIN) emphasizes capacity building as a cornerstone for sustainable development and agricultural innovation. By addressing both human and infrastructure development, ADCIN is empowering research institutions and individuals across Africa to enhance agricultural practices, strengthen food security, and improve livelihoods in dryland regions.
In 2023, ADCIN made significant strides toward these goals by investing $1 million to strengthen National Agricultural Research and Extension Systems (NARES). This initiative focused on enhancing human capacity and infrastructure, equipping researchers, students, and institutions to address the unique challenges of dryland agriculture. The funding supported 32 awardees from East and Southern Africa (ESA) and West and Central Africa (WCA), including 15 visiting scientists, 7 students, 4 group training sessions, and 6 infrastructure development projects.
In 2024, ADCIN organized multiple training sessions in Senegal, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and Kenya, targeting seed system development, business sustainability, crop production improvements, and advanced data management techniques. These capacity-building efforts promoted knowledge sharing, collaborative research, and best practices in seed systems, crop breeding, agronomy, and data analytics. Four group training sessions were held: two in Kenya and Ethiopia for the ESA region, and two in Senegal and Nigeria for the WCA region.
Strengthening Seed Companies and CBOs for Growth in Nigeria
ADCIN, in collaboration with Syngenta Foundation Nigeria, hosted a two-day capacity-building workshop for seed companies and community-based organizations (CBOs) in Kano, Nigeria, on September 4–5. Supported by partners such as CDA, IITA, ICRISAT, and NASC, the workshop aimed to enhance seed production and commercialization efforts while promoting AVISA crops like sorghum, pearl millet, groundnut, and cowpea.
The workshop attracted 30 participants, including 20 CBOs and 10 seed companies, who were trained in topics such as seed production best practices, post-harvest handling, and seed certification standards. Key outcomes included the implementation of modern innovations like e-certification and seed tracking technologies, designed to improve transparency and efficiency in the seed sector.
Participants of the training in Nigeria on strengthening seed companies and community-based organizations (CBOs) to enhance seed production and commercialization effort (Photo: CIMMYT)
Participants were also introduced to the Farmers’ Hub concept, which offers smallholder farmers access to essential agricultural inputs, machinery, and market opportunities. Many participants expressed enthusiasm about using the Farmers’ Hub to expand their customer base and grow their businesses.
“The networking opportunities provided by this training have been invaluable. I’m looking forward to applying what I’ve learned and taking my business to the next level,” shared one participant.
The training is expected to have a lasting impact on seed quality and foster business growth in Nigeria. By equipping CBOs to transition into fully operational seed companies, ADCIN is advancing the sustainability of Nigeria’s seed industry. Participants are now better prepared to tackle challenges in seed production, marketing, and regulatory compliance, paving the way for a more resilient seed sector.
With the knowledge gained from the workshop, participants are now better prepared to address the challenges of seed production, marketing, and regulatory compliance, paving the way for a more resilient and robust seed industry in Nigeria.
Promoting Crop Improvement in Senegal
From August 20-27, 2024, more than 50 breeding and crop protection technicians from nine West and Central African countries gathered in Saly, Senegal for a comprehensive training session. The training, co-funded by the AVISA project and organized by CIMMYT in collaboration with National Agricultural Research and Extension Systems (NARES) from nine West and Central African countries, including Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Ghana, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Togo, and Senegal, aimed to improve the efficiency of cowpea, groundnut, pearl millet, and sorghum breeding operations.
Participants gained hands-on experience in key areas such as seed trial management, electronic data collection, and genotyping. These skills are essential for improving crop varieties and making them more resilient to local conditions.
Field trips to Bambey, Senegal allowed participants to practice techniques such as setting up and managing seed trials, leaf sampling for genotyping, and electronic data collection using tablets making research more efficient and accurate.
Participants of the training in Senegal on improving the efficiency of cowpea, groundnut, pearl millet and sorghum breeding operations (Photo: CIMMYT)
“This training has given me new insights into how we can improve our breeding programs and provide better seeds for our farmers. The practical sessions were particularly helpful,” said a participant.
By enhancing technicians’ skills in trial management and data collection, the training is expected to improve field data accuracy and contribute to the development of climate-resilient crop varieties, directly addressing regional food security challenges.
Enhancing Seed Producers’ Skills in Ethiopia
ADCIN held a three-day workshop in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from July 30 to August 1, 2024, focusing on building the capacity of the country’s seed producers. Organized in collaboration with the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR) and supported by CIMMYT, the workshop aimed to strengthen Ethiopia’s seed producers by improving their skills in key areas such as seed health management, seed business management, variety maintenance, breeder seed production, and postharvest handling.
The training attracted 19 participants from both the public and private sectors, including seed companies, producer associations and research centers. The sessions provided critical insights into the management of seed-borne diseases such as mycotoxins and aflatoxins, which affect crops like sorghum, chickpea, beans, and finger millet. Participants learned how to incorporate seed health testing into Ethiopia’s national certification process, which will help ensure healthier seeds and increased crop productivity.
Participants of the training in Ethiopia whose aim was to strengthen Ethiopia’s seed producers by improving their skills in key areas (Photo: Marion Aluoch/CIMMYT)
The seed business management session introduced participants to the Business Model Canvas (BMC), a framework for creating viable and demand-driven seed business models. By emphasizing sustainable practices in seed production, processing, and marketing, the training equipped participants with the tools they need to grow their seed businesses and contribute to Ethiopia’s growing agricultural sector.
The workshop also discussed the importance of variety maintenance and breeder seed production, focusing on the genetic integrity of improved varieties. The postharvest handling session focused on seed storage techniques and pest management, helping participants in maintaining seed quality after harvest.
“This workshop has really opened our eyes to new business strategies and how we can ensure that our seed businesses remain profitable and sustainable,” shared a representative from a local seed company.
Through this training, ADCIN is supporting Ethiopia’s seed producers in their efforts to improve seed quality and business sustainability, thereby contributing to the long-term growth of the seed industry.
Equipping Breeders with Advanced Data Management Skills in Kenya
ADCIN held a training on modern biometrics, quantitative genetics and data management in Nairobi, Kenya, from 10 to 14 June.This capacity-building initiative brought together 43 participants from nine Eastern and Southern African (ESA)countries, representing breeding leaders, data champions, and young breeders working on crops such as chickpea, finger millet, pearl millet, pigeonpea, and sorghum.
Participants of the training in Kenya that focused on data-driven decision-making in breeding programs (Photo: CIMMYT)
The training focused on data-driven decision-making in breeding programs and covered topics such asexperimental design, advanced data analysis using the CGIAR Breeding Analytical Pipeline, and managing genotype x environment (GxE) interactions. Participants learned about the Breeding Management System (BMS), quality control processes, and practical applications of the CGIAR Breeding Analytical Pipeline, which enhancedtheir ability to analyze large datasets and improve breeding accuracy across the CGIAR-NARES network.
A Holistic Approach to Capacity Development
These training programs are just a small part of ADCIN’s broader initiative to build capacity across Africa’s dryland regions. These efforts, which focus on critical areas such as seed production, crop improvement, business sustainability, and data management, are helping to develop resilient agricultural systems capable of withstanding the challenges of dryland agriculture. As ADCIN works to strengthen robust and sustainable seed industries, these capacity-building programs will play an important role in increasing food security and improving the livelihoods of communities inAfrica’s drylands.
At the World Agri-Tech Innovation Summit, CIMMYT was distinguished through Jelle Van Loon, Juan Cortina, and Andrea Gardeazabal, who are driving collaboration, the use of open data, and regenerative practices to address the climatecrisis and transform agriculture.
Jelle Van Loon during his participation in the panel “Transitioning to Regenerative Agriculture in Mexico: Corporate and Government Programs Supporting Small Growers to Adopt Climate-Smart Practices.” (Photo: Francisco Alarcón / CIMMYT)
At the recent World Agri-Tech Innovation Summit (October 29-30), two representatives and a member of CIMMYT’s Board of Directors—Jelle Van Loon (Associate Director of Sustainable Agri-Food Systems and Regional Representative for Latin America), Andrea Gardeazabal (Manager of Monitoring and Evaluation of Information and Communication Technology for Agriculture at CIMMYT), and Juan Cortina (member of CIMMYT’s Board of Directors and President of the National Agricultural Council)—shared a comprehensive view on the challenges and progress towards a more sustainable and resilient agriculture. The event brought together global leaders in technology, innovation, and sustainability, serving as a platform to highlight CIMMYT’s role in transforming the agri-food sector.
Andrea Gardeazabal, in her presentation, highlighted the urgency of addressing the climate crisis with actions based on data and collaboration. “With 10 years of data on regenerative practices, we are moving towards an agriculture that not only restores ecosystems but also responds to the challenges of climate change,” Andrea said. She emphasized the importance of creating an environment of open and standardized data access for regenerative agriculture to scale globally. Through a long-term testing network and the development of digital technologies, CIMMYT has laid the groundwork for practices that optimize agronomic management and improve water use efficiency—critical in the current context of water scarcity.
Andrea Gardeazabal, during her participation in the World Agri-Tech Innovation Summit. (Photo: Francisco Alarcón / CIMMYT)
Juan Cortina underscored the importance of collaboration between Mexico and the United States for the growth of Mexico’s agri-food sector. He emphasized how nearshoring, promoted since the signing of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA), has allowed Mexico to specialize in products that complement U.S. production. “Our country is the ninth-largest agricultural producer and the seventh-largest agro-exporter in the world, which demonstrates the impact of strategic collaboration in North America,” said Cortina. He also highlighted that this supply chain integration, strengthened by access to key inputs such as U.S. corn, is vital for the region’s food security.
Jelle Van Loon emphasized that CIMMYT’s role at the World Agri-Tech Summit reflects the organization’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. He highlighted how Andrea and Juan’s interventions underscored CIMMYT’s multidimensional approach: combining science and practice, applying advanced technology, and fostering global partnerships to accelerate agricultural transformation. “Our work at CIMMYT is an example of how collaboration and knowledge-sharing can have a real and lasting impact on agriculture and global food security,” concluded Jelle.
Juan Cortina, a member of CIMMYT’s Board of Directors, participates in the panel discussion “Capitalizing on Nearshoring: Alliances between Mexico and International Partners.” (Photo: Francisco Alarcón / CIMMYT)
CIMMYT’s message at the event was clear: to scale up regenerative agriculture and address climate challenges, we need more data, more collaboration, and a shared vision of the future. In Andrea’s words: “Safe and sustainable agricultural transformation will only be possible if we work together and share our progress and knowledge on a global scale.”
Innovation in the agricultural sector demonstrates that science, technology, and collaboration are essential to achieve resilient, inclusive, and sustainable agriculture. These forums encourage the agri-food sector to strengthen collaborative networks and food security, thus promoting a brighter agricultural future.
At COP29, the Rockefeller Foundation highlighted its support for CIMMYT through a grant focused on advancing regenerative agricultural practices on farms in Mexico. This collaboration underscores CIMMYT’s pivotal role in driving sustainable farming solutions that enhance food security, environmental resilience, and biodiversity conservation. By integrating regenerative techniques into agrifood systems, CIMMYT contributes to global efforts to mitigate climate change while safeguarding the productivity and health of vital ecosystems.
The collaborative long-term experiments (LTEs) established by CIMMYT and Ambo University on the Guder Mano Mezemer campus, specifically at the Abebech Gobena Agricultural Research Center (Photo: CIMMYT)
A collaboration effort between CIMMYT and Ambo University has positioned CIMMYT as the national leader in implementing high-impact technologies to improve the quality and quantity of cereal crop production in Ethiopia. This partnership, established over three decades ago at national and regional levels, has become a vital element in driving innovations and advancements in the agricultural sector.
A recent field visit to the LTEs, which were established three years ago, at the Abebech Gobena Agricultural Research Center in Guder, West Shewa Zone of the Oromia Region, demonstrated the importance of collaboration between research and development partners. The LTEs were established to study three main climate-smart interventions: nutrient management (including organic, inorganic, and residue-based practices), crop rotation, and intercropping, over an extended period of time. The event highlighted CIMMYT’s ongoing efforts to improve Ethiopia’s agricultural production, particularly by testing agronomic practices that increase yields and enhance soil health through the use of different organic fertilizers along with inorganic fertilizer and proper cereal-legume rotation over the past two years at the center and in farmers’ fields.
Focus areas of research
Research will focus on developing the best combination of locally available organic inputs with inorganic fertilizer, together with appropriate cereal-legume rotation on LTE plots, to monitor yield and soil health parameters such as organic matter accumulation over time, improve resource use efficiency, and enhance soil health. The main crops involved are:
Maize (Zea Mays): Jibat variety
Wheat (Triticum aestivum): Wane variety
Teff (Eragrostis teff): Quncho variety
Legumes: Faba bean, soybean, haricot bean, and pigeon pea
The LTE sites have served as demonstration and learning platforms for local communities. The cropping system in the area has traditionally been dominated by continuous monocropping of cereals for decades. In response, this collaborative LTE initiative has introduced four legume crops into rotation and intercropping systems, three of which are new to the area. Some of these new crops have been well received by farmers, who have selected the most promising options to try on their fields as “baby trials,” with the LTE plots referred to as “mother trials.” These efforts have been accompanied by training and resources for farmers and extension workers.
Community engagement and outcomes
The initiative has involved 55 farmers from three villages, with a focus on optimizing crop yields and promoting sustainable agriculture. Dr. Tesfaye Sida, an Agronomist/Sustainable Agrifood Systems at CIMMYT, highlighted the importance of these trials in improving food security and soil health in the intervention areas. He added, “This streamlined client-based collaboration, based on capacity development and knowledge transfer, is helping us to drive the pathways for climate-resilient, sustainable, and inclusive agricultural development for food and nutrition security in Ethiopia.”
A diverse group of stakeholders visiting the collaborative research trial sites (Photo: CIMMYT)
On September 23, 2024, a significant stakeholder gathering, including academic professionals, research and development partners, and farmers, as well as local government decision-makers, visited the trial sites to observe the research activities and progress at the Guder Mano Mezemer campus in Birbirsa village, where CIMMYT and Ambo University are conducting collaborative research. During the event, Dr. Gizachew Kebede, a soil scientist at CIMMYT, highlighted the dual focus of the research: crop rotation and soil nutrient management. “Despite farmers’ familiarity with crop rotation, they often face challenges in identifying the best companion crops and appropriate sequences. We are addressing this by rotating cereals such as maize, wheat, and teff with legumes such as soybean and pigeon pea, some of which are new to the system and likely to improve soil fertility and system resilience. The other fascinating part of the research is the testing of both organic and non-organic fertilizers, an intelligent approach to determining best practices for soil health and productivity, with a particular focus on understanding long-term effects, with plans extending for at least a decade. This kind of knowledge transfer is crucial to improving agricultural productivity and sustainability in the community, and we have seen great results from the trials so far.”
Dr. Tesfaye Shiferaw, an agronomist/Sustainable Agrifood Systems emphasizes the model. “Initially these were long-term experiments (LTEs), which mainly established the long-term impacts of interventions (nutrient management, crop rotation, intercropping, etc.) on climate change effects, productivity, and soil health. However, during the demonstrations of these LTEs, local farmers expressed interest in trying the agricultural technology/intervention/practice of their choice. We then added potential other technologies that could be options and allowed them to conduct their own mini-trials (called baby trials) to increase the number of alternatives. In this context, the LTEs can now be referred to as “mother trials.”
Research collaborators also echoed this sentiment. Dr. Nigusie Bekele, Director of Guder Mezemer Campus, highlighted Ambo University’s pride in hosting trials and major events related to their research collaboration with CIMMYT. He emphasized the university’s commitment to multidisciplinary research and service to the community, noting that their partnership with CIMMYT is instrumental in this regard, particularly in promoting productive, inclusive, and resilient food systems in Ethiopia. Dr. Nigusie described their joint action research and innovation efforts as transformative, benefiting not only the local community but also the wider Ethiopian population dependent on smallholder agriculture.
New launch of common beans and farmer insights
Farmer Shelema Hirpasa proudly displays a thriving crop of haricot beans grown after receiving seeds from CIMMYT. This image highlights the positive impact of research and support in increasing agricultural productivity and empowering local farmers (Photo: CIMMYT)
The photo features young farmer Shelema Hirpasa proudly displaying a thriving crop of haricot beans grown after receiving seeds from CIMMYT. This image highlights the positive impact of research and support in increasing agricultural productivity and empowering local farmers.
The introduction of soybean and pigeon pea in the intervention villages has generated considerable interest among farmers, leading to increased participation and positive results. Farmer Shelema Hirpasa from Tuke Kutaye District was enthusiastic about the exceptional performance of these new crops, noting a stark contrast with the traditional varieties he had previously grown. Highlighting the advantages of crop diversification, he said: “I have been involved in farming since my childhood but have never seen such performance in my crops.” This reflects the transformative impact of these new agricultural practices on local farming communities.
CIMMYT researcher gives visitors a detailed briefing on the ongoing activities at the demonstration sites (Photo: CIMMYT)
This interaction highlights the importance of knowledge sharing and engagement in agricultural research, as stakeholders learn about innovative practices and advances being implemented in the field. The gathering also reflects the commitment of the various partners in the initiative, showcasing their shared interest in advancing agricultural research and promoting food security through collaboration between CIMMYT and Ambo University.
Media coverage and future directions
The collaboration and field visits have drawn media attention, with coverage from outlets such as the Oromia Broadcasting Network (OBN). This initiative, implemented by CIMMYT and Ambo University with support from One CGIAR’s Excellence in Agronomy (EIA) and Ukama Ustawi initiatives, is paving the way for sustainable and resilient agricultural practices in Ethiopia.
Through continued partnership and innovation, CIMMYT and Ambo University are not only transforming agricultural practices in the region but also contributing to the broader goal of food and nutrition security throughout Ethiopia.
Climate change-induced drought is jeopardizing barley production in Mexico’s Altiplano, which supplies 93% of the country’s barley, putting both local and global beer supplies at risk. To combat this, CIMMYT and Heineken Mexico have launched the “Cultivando un México Mejor” program, which promotes conservation agriculture practices to optimize water use, retain soil moisture, and increase yields. This initiative aims for 100% sustainably produced barley by 2030, helping farmers adapt to climate challenges while supporting the brewing industry’s sustainability goals.
Germplasm Bank team that participated in the new shipment of seeds to Svalbard (Photo: Jenifer Morales/CIMMYT)
In an act that underlines Mexico’s commitment to biodiversityconservation and global food security, CIMMYT has delivered its ninth shipment of maize seeds to the Svalbard Global Seed Vault. This deposit marks a significant milestone, completing 90% of the maize collection and 92% of the wheat collection, making CIMMYT one of the leading custodians of the world’s agricultural biological heritage.
The Svalbard Vault, known as the “vault at the end of the world,” is an impressive repository located on a Norwegian island, more than 8,000 kilometers from Mexico. Its purpose is to store seeds from around the world to protect biodiversity from natural disasters, conflicts, or the effects of climate change. With this latest shipment, Mexico strengthens its role in conserving seeds that, in critical situations, could mean the difference between the collapse or resilience of global food systems.
Cristian Zavala, germplasm conservation specialist at CIMMYT, emphasized the importance of this shipment for the maize and wheat collections. “This shipment is essential to ensure the availability of seeds in the future,” said Zavala, alluding to the long process needed to complete the conservation of the collections. “While this is not the last shipment to Svalbard, it is a critical one to ensure the availability of the seed in the future,” he added.
These efforts are aimed not only at protecting the genetic diversity of these crops but also at ensuring that the seed is available for distribution. Zavala explained, “In addition to supporting 92% of this shipment, the wheat collection has reached 90% availability for distribution, which makes us eligible to participate in long-term funding.” This availability is key to ensuring food security and allows these seeds to be recovered and distributed to regions that may need repatriation.
The CIMMYT Germplasm Bank at Texcoco, which houses the largest and most diverse collections of maize and wheat in the world, serves not only Mexico but all of humanity. Protected as a “global good,” these seeds are available for research, agriculture, and education. “When we talk about a public good or a global good, we mean that all of humanity has the right to enjoy this diversity in a responsible way,” said Zavala.
The Svalbard Vault, with its ability to withstand natural disasters and other threats, is a guarantee to the countries that store their seed collections there. In Zavala’s words, “If this diversity is lost, only these types of gene banks can and will be able to return it to its place of origin.” This reflects the global and collaborative effort needed to conserve agricultural biodiversity.
This achievement is the result of a collective effort. “To make this shipment possible, a large team of people participated. This year, about 50 people supported this set of seeds,” said Zavala. Conservation of genetic resources is a team effort that involves many actors to ensure the availability of these seeds in the future.
The shipment to Svalbard is a reminder of the importance of gene banks as a critical tool in addressing the challenges of climate change and ensuring global food security. The seeds sent are not intended for immediate cultivation but will serve as a backup, ready to be used in the event of a disaster affecting the original collections. In this way, Mexico is contributing to a public good of inestimable value for all humanity.
In a world increasingly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, biodiversity loss, or social instability, these shipments are more than just storage. They are an act of collective responsibility that will allow humanity to maintain its ability to feed and thrive.
My name is Mauren Govin Molen, and I am the CEO of Hot Living Horticulture, an agribusiness located on an 8-acre farm in Iringa, Tanzania. At Hot Living, we grow a variety of crops, including tomatoes, capsicum, beetroot, pepper, mint, and strawberries. My journey into agriculture began in 2021, shortly after I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in social protection. At that time, I decided to pursue a different path from what I had studied and work in agriculture.
Maureen Govin Molen, CEO of Hot Living Horticulture, on her tomato field in Iringa, Tanzania (Photo: CIMMYT)
Since then, horticulture has become my passion, and I have been actively involved in it for the past several years. Hot Living has grown significantly, and in 2024, I was fortunate to be awarded a grant-winning prize through Feed the Future’s PSSA (Private Sector Strengthening Activity) and the Tanzania Imarisha Sekta Binafsi (Private Sector Strengthening) initiative. This opportunity was a turning point for me and my business.
I applied for the grant in early June, went for the interview in Jombe, and was selected as one of the beneficiaries. The grant allowed me to acquire essential equipment for my farm, such as trays, crates, trolleys, shade nets, and spray pumps. For example, I now have 150 trays for seedling production in the nursery and 50 crates for deliveries and harvesting peppers, which have greatly improved our operations. The spray pumps are essential for my day-to-day farming activities, and the trolleys make it easier to transport fertilizers.
Perhaps the most transformative addition has been the shade net. I already had one greenhouse, but with the addition of a second shade net, I can now double production to meet high customer demand. This expansion allows me to grow more crops, including tomatoes, of which we harvest around 400 crates per month, and capsicum, yielding up to 212-220 kg per month. However, demand often exceeds our supply capacity, especially from large hotel clients, who request 300-500 kg per week. Currently, we can only fulfill these requests on a monthly basis, focusing on meeting demand from the broader market.
Maureen Govin Molen, CEO of Hot Living Horticulture, on her tomato field in Iringa, Tanzania (Photo: CIMMYT)
Overcoming Challenges and Building Capacity
Running an agribusiness is not without its challenges. Weather, particularly during the rainy season, poses a significant threat to our crops. Flooding is common on our farm, and without proper infrastructure like drainage systems, our crops are often damaged. Pests are another major issue, especially in the rainy season, requiring constant management.
Despite these challenges, having the right equipment and resources has made a significant difference. The grant I received has accelerated the growth of my farm, enabling me to employ more young people to support production and operations. With new tools, I’ve been able to increase capsicum production, nurture seedlings, and create new business opportunities by starting a seedling nursery.
Future Plans: Nurturing Seedlings and Expanding Operations
One of my long-term goals is to establish my own seedling nursery. In Iringa, many farmers buy seed directly from suppliers, but not all varieties are readily available. I see an opportunity to offer a service where farmers can either buy seeds from me, which I will nurture until they are ready to plant, or bring their own seeds, which I will grow to the transplanting stage. Each option would be priced differently, depending on whether I provide the seeds or simply nurture them to the planting stage.
This venture will not only provide farmers with access to quality seedlings but will also generate additional income for Hot Living.
Maureen Govin tends to young seedlings in her nursery at her farm (Photo: CIMMYT)
Empowering the Community and Encouraging Youth
I am proud that Hot Living Horticulture has become a learning hub for smallholder farmers and local youth. Farmers often visit our farm to learn about modern agricultural practices, such as drip irrigation and greenhouse crop management. Very few farmers in Iringa have greenhouses, so they come here to explore how agriculture can be practiced efficiently in this environment. They also gain skills in nurturing seedlings from early growth stages to harvest.
We also invite agronomists to connect farmers with others, fostering a network of knowledge sharing and innovation. This collaboration has made our farm a center for agricultural learning and community development.
I strongly encourage young people to consider farming. After graduation, many young people focus on seeking employment, but the reality is that not everyone will secure a job. Agriculture presents a unique path to self-employment and entrepreneurship. The demand for agricultural products is high, and agriculture remains the backbone of our country. By focusing on agriculture, we not only provide healthy food to our communities but also contribute to environmental conservation, create economic opportunities, and promote mental well-being through the calming nature of farm work.
A Grateful Future Ahead
I extend my gratitude to the AID-I project for its support in accelerating my growth. The grant provided the resources I needed to expand my farm, boost production, and create employment opportunities for others.
I now have the tools to streamline my operations—from irrigation systems to crates and trays that make my daily work more efficient. This support has enabled me to think beyond simply growing crops. I now have the ambition to expand my operations, create more job opportunities, and make a lasting impact on the agricultural sector.
Looking ahead, I hope to add more greenhouses, which will allow me to produce crops multiple times a year and better meet the growing demand from my customers. I also plan to reinvest my income in purchasing additional parcels of land to expand my farm further.
Hot Living Horticulture is more than just a farm; it’s a symbol of growth, community, and sustainability. I am excited about what the future holds and look forward to continuing this journey—not only for myself but also for the many people who rely on agriculture for their livelihoods.
Maureen Govin in discussion with partners and stakeholders of the AID-I project at her farm in Iringa, Tanzania (Photo: CIMMYT)
Southern Africa Accelerated Innovation Delivery Initiative (AID-I) Rapid Delivery Hub
The Southern Africa Accelerated Innovation Delivery Initiative (AID-I) Rapid Delivery Hub supports up to three million African smallholder farmers by enhancing soil health, improving fertilizer management, and strengthening local seed systems. Additionally, AID-I connects farmers to financial services and provides essential extension and advisory assistance. The initiative ensures that smallholder farmers in Malawi, Tanzania, and Zambia have access to the information and innovations necessary to increase productivity and resilience. By equipping farmers with tools and knowledge to cope with climate change and economic challenges, AID-I plays a vital role in enhancing their livelihoods.
Through strengthening rural-urban linkages and building national capacity for value chain development, AID-I, funded by USAID through the Feed the Future initiative and implemented by CIMMYT, supports farmers like Maureen Govin Molen in building sustainable and thriving agribusinesses. With its collaborative and holistic approach, the initiative promotes co-ownership and long-term sustainability, transforming agriculture across Southern Africa and empowering communities to achieve greater prosperity.
From left to right: Bram Govaerts, Diego Montenegro, and Pedro Díaz. (Photo: Jenifer Morales / CIMMYT)
Texcoco, State of Mexico, November 6-7, 2024 – Reducing carbon (CO₂) emissions has become a global priority, as the severe consequences of global warming directly affect everyone. CO₂ is the most abundant greenhouse gas (GHG), accounting for 82% of global emissions. Carbon sinks are natural systems that can remove part of atmospheric CO₂ through capture or recarbonization. Healthy soils are the second most important carbon sink after oceans, and implementing progressive regenerative practices to restore soil health is essential in agriculture to contribute significantly to soil recarbonization.
Efforts to recarbonize agricultural soils in primary production must be complemented by a vigorous process to decarbonize agri-food systems. By reducing GHG emissions across their value chains, these systems can ensure a long-term solution to the current climate emergency.
In alignment with this approach, CIMMYT, the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), and the Trust Funds for Agriculture (FIRA) have joined forces in a strategic alliance to transform agri-food systems. Their focus is on recarbonizing soils and decarbonizing agri-food systems and value chains, convinced that, beyond being part of the climate change problem, agriculture is a crucial part of the solution.
At the first forum, “Recabonization of Agricultural Soils and Decarbonization of Agri-food Systems,” experts from public and private institutions shared experiences and explored how integrating science and the ancestral knowledge of rural communities can regenerate soils, reduce emissions, and build low-emission, highly adaptable production systems in response to climate impacts across Mexico and Latin America’s diverse agro-ecological regions.
Bram Govaerts, Director General of CIMMYT, stated: “Mitigating climate change requires both soil recarbonization and decarbonization. Here, carbon is our metric, but we also consider nitrogen fertilizer emissions, which, when released into the air, have a larger footprint than carbon itself. Beyond this, we need to shift from a purely productive focus, which was perhaps the goal 50-60 years ago, to a resilience-centered approach. This means evolving from efficient production to effective and resilient practices. Resilience is essential for the agri-food sector to adapt to phenomena like El Niño or changing rainfall patterns, such as in 2004, when rain arrived late but intensely for a short period.”
Jelle Van Loon, Associate Director of the Sustainable Agri-food Systems Program at CIMMYT, emphasized the importance of institutional cooperation to address the challenges posed by climate change in agriculture. “Regenerative agriculture is not just a concept; it is an imperative for food security and the planet’s sustainability,” he stated. Van Loon highlighted research findings and long-term trials showing the benefits of regenerative practices, such as cover cropping and organic fertilization, in improving soil health and reducing CO₂ emissions.
Jesús Alan Elizondo Flores, General Director of FIRA, detailed FIRA’s sustainability strategy, driven by a network of 88 local offices across Mexico. His approach includes ecological finance, biofertilizer use, agroforestry, and farmer-to-farmer extension models, all aimed at transitioning small-scale producers to the carbon credit market, thus strengthening soil recarbonization efforts.
Diego Montenegro, IICA’s representative in Mexico, emphasized the strategic alliances among actors in the agri-food system as essential for technical cooperation, with producers as central figures. He stated, “This forum should guide us toward a new paradigm, a new way of doing agriculture in Mexico and globally. This collective work will bring about the sustainable agricultural practices we need to expand.”
At the second keynote address, Rattan Lal, 2020 World Food Prize Laureate and Goodwill Ambassador for IICA, stressed the importance of understanding soil carbon’s environmental impact and called for the restoration of degraded soils as part of the climate solution, advocating for “soil rights” to protect and responsibly manage soils worldwide.
In a panel discussion, Elisa Muñoz Rodríguez, a chemical engineer and producer from Guanajuato, and María Eugenia Rico González, a conservation farmer from the Valley of Santiago, shared their experiences in implementing sustainable practices, underlining both benefits and challenges in convincing others to adopt these methods.
In final reflections, José Luis Ayala, IICA Mexico’s Technical Coordinator, noted that collective action with producers is key to achieving a resilient and efficient agricultural model. “Together, we can progress in food security, reduce poverty, and collectively build a better future,” he concluded.
The forum featured participants from international organizations like FAO, private sector actors like ILBI, Canopia, and Nestlé, public sector entities like the government of Chile, and academic institutions like UNAM and Oxford University, promoting a systemic approach to recarbonization and decarbonization for impactful climate action.
About CIMMYT
CIMMYT is an international public organization dedicated to improving agricultural systems in the Global South through applied science, innovation, and collaboration.
About IICA
The Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) is committed to agricultural development and rural well-being across the Americas, promoting policies, technical cooperation, and capacity building to ensure sustainability, competitiveness, and resilience.
About FIRA
The Trust Funds for Agriculture (FIRA) support Mexico’s agricultural development through finance, technical assistance, and capacity building, assisting farmers in transitioning to sustainable, low-emission, and climate-resilient production systems.
The World Food Prize honored Cary Fowler and Geoffrey Hawtin for their lifelong dedication to preserving genetic resources critical to global food security. They have led efforts to protect seeds from over 6,000 crops by establishing germplasm banks worldwide, including the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, to safeguard biodiversity against climate threats. With partners like INIFAP, CIMMYT has played a key role in conserving the genetic diversity of staple crops, ensuring these resources are available for future agricultural resilience.
Each year, the Borlaug Dialogue in Des Moines, Iowa, becomes a dynamic platform where global leaders in agriculture, policy, research, and youth come together to address the critical issues surrounding global food security. The event is marked by the World Food Prize ceremony, which celebrates groundbreaking achievements that improve the accessibility, quality, and availability of food around the world. This year, CIMMYT’s role was significant, reflecting its unwavering commitment to reimagine the future of food and agriculture. CIMMYT’s presence was impactful and deeply resonant, representing its dedication to sustainable agricultural solutions for vulnerable communities. The following highlights capture these pivotal moments and showcase our role in promoting science and innovation for a food- and nutrition-secure world.
DialogueNEXT Mexico: Fostering Global Collaboration and Resilience
This year’s DialogueNEXT Mexico, themed “Nurturing Farmer Resilience,” celebrated the power of uniting leaders from across continents to address the urgent need for sustainable, resilient food systems. The event focused on innovative strategies to empower farmers and ensure food security in the face of climate challenges and resource constraints. Key initiatives presented included CIMMYT’s Vision for Adapted Crops and Soils (VACS), which provides farmers with improved crop varieties and conservation techniques. Expanded to Africa through the Accelerated Innovation Delivery Initiative (AID-I), these programs exemplify CIMMYT’s commitment to building resilience and reducing poverty through sustainable agriculture.
DialogueNext Mexico Session at Borlaug Dialogue (Photo: WFPF/Scott Morgan 2024
CIMMYT Experts Honored on the 2024 TAP List
A standout moment came with the recognition of Sylvanus Odjo and Marianne Banziger among the 2024 Top Agri-food Pioneers (TAP), honoring their invaluable contributions to sustainable agriculture. Their work embodies CIMMYT’s mission to empower communities and advance resilient food systems. This honor celebrates their contributions to building resilient, equitable food systems worldwide.
TAP List (Photo: WFPF/Scott Morgan 2024
Empowering Future Innovators and Expanding Global Alliances
CIMMYT showcased its commitment to sustainable agriculture through key initiatives and partnerships. The Global Maize Program Director, B.M. Prasanna, led an engaging session on the CIMMYT Academy’s role in shaping the next generation of plant breeders by equipping young scientists to tackle food security challenges with innovation, ensuring that CIMMYT’s mission will continue to advance with adaptability. Prasanna’s session underscored the vital role of mentorship and capacity-building in securing food systems for future generations.
One of the Dialogue’s highlights was the “Realizing Borlaug 2.0” event, where CIMMYT, USAID, and USDA launched the Feed the Future Global Wheat Health Alliance. This initiative aims to protect wheat from climate-related threats such as fusarium, wheat blast, and rust. Announced with a call for additional partners, this foundational investment marks a global commitment to protect wheat and strengthen food security. By linking research and breeding programs, the Alliance will accelerate the discovery and deployment of disease-resistant wheat varieties, ensuring a resilient future for one of the world’s staple crops.
In the footsteps of Dr. Borlaug Session (Photo:WFPF/Scott Morgan 2024)
Strengthening Global Alliances for Climate-Smart Agriculture
At the Borlaug Dialogue 2024, CIMMYT highlighted its commitment to sustainable agriculture and climate resilience through several impactful partnerships and collaborations. In a key session with the VACS partnership, CIMMYT addressed the urgent need for adaptable crops and resilient soils in the face of climate change, emphasizing the importance of global cooperation to secure food systems against environmental stresses. CIMMYT furthered its mission by establishing a groundbreaking partnership with the Secretariat of Agriculture and Livestock (SAG) of Honduras to strengthen food security and promote sustainable agricultural growth in Latin America.
Strategic discussions with FAO and the African Development Bank Group reinforced CIMMYT’s commitment to scaling climate-smart initiatives across regions, creating a powerful network of allies in building resilient food systems. The Dialogue also honored award winners Cary Fowler and Geoffrey Hawtin, whose work on crop biodiversity aligns with CIMMYT’s core mission of conserving agricultural diversity and improving food security worldwide.
Geoffrey Hawtin and Cary Fowler (Photo: WFPF/Scott Morgan 2024)
Through its contributions to the Dialogue, CIMMYT underscored its role as a global leader in transforming agri-food systems. Guided by a vision of a food-secure future, CIMMYT continues to empower farmers and build resilient communities around the world.
MoU signing event between Nepal and Bangladesh seed companies (Photo: Sirish Shrestha/CIMMYT)
In August 2024, four Nepalese seed companies and six international seed companies from India, Bangladesh, Japan and Thailand signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for custom seed production of cereals and vegetables in Nepal, opening up game-changing economic opportunities in South Asia. This agreement will allow international seed companies to produce seed in a suitable agroecology in Nepal and export to international markets. To support this, the Government of Nepal has agreed to exempt variety registration for export-oriented custom seed production and expedite the process with added incentives to attract more international seed companies. This move aims to position Nepal as a future regional seed production hub.
The conference attracted over 150 participants from 11 countries, including Bangladesh, Ethiopia, India, Japan, Kenya, Nepal, Pakistan, Singapore, Switzerland, Thailand, and the USA, representing research centers, civil society organizations, private seed companies, and national agricultural research systems (NARS). The event was organized under the USAID’s Nepal Seed and Fertilizer (NSAF) project which aims to foster Nepal’s seed market systems through the enhancement of stakeholders’ capacity in seed research, quality seed production, as well as the creation of an enabling environment that links seed companies with input and output markets.
Enhancing seed market systems in South Asia
The MoU is expected to enhance the seed market system in the region, create new economic opportunities for Nepal, boost agricultural exports, and generate income for farmers. It will also facilitate the transfer of advanced seed technology and foster stronger partnerships between seed companies in the region and beyond. Mr. M Anis Ud Dowla, Board Chairman of Advanced Chemical Industries (ACI) Limited, one of the largest business conglomerates in Bangladesh, expressed optimism about the partnership, citing Nepal’s favorable conditions for producing seeds of cool-season crops and the potential benefits for farmers in Nepal and Bangladesh.
In addition, ACI signed MoUs with Gorkha Seed Company and SEAN Seed Service Center, for the production of cereals and vegetable seeds, demonstrating growing confidence in Nepal’s seed sector where CIMMYT and its partners played a key role to enhance the capacity of the seed stakeholders for the past several years. “About 10 or 12 years ago, I had the opportunity to interact with the seed stakeholders in Nepal and at that time the seed sector was not viable, and the role of the private sector was insignificant. Now, I am impressed to see such seed sector transformation initiatives in Nepal,” says Manesh Patel, President of Asia and Pacific Seed Association (APSA) while acknowledging the effort made by CIMMYT and other seed stakeholders. He added that “it is time for Nepalese private seed companies to become a member of APSA to leverage regional opportunities.”
Untapped potential
Nepal’s diverse agroecology, encompassing tropical, subtropical, and temperate environments, provides an ideal condition for seed production of cereals, fruits, and vegetables. However, this potential remains largely untapped due to limitations within the country’s formal seed sector. The informal system dominates, leaving farmers with insufficient access to quality seeds. In 2023, the formal sector only met 25% of the total 180,000 metric ton requirement for cereal seeds. Consequently, Nepal heavily relies on imported seeds, particularly hybrid varieties of rice and maize, costing nearly half a billion dollars annually when accounting for both cereal seeds and grain imports.
Several factors hinder the development of Nepal’s seed sector: limited availability of high-yielding varieties that are tolerant to major biotic and abiotic stresses; a lack of farmer awareness regarding quality certified seeds and modern technologies; inadequate infrastructure for improved storage and road access; vulnerability to climate change impacts; insufficient incentives for private sector investment; and limited human and institutional capacity across the seed value chain.
To tackle these challenges and seize opportunities, the Government of Nepal has outlined key interventions through the National Seed Policy, National Seed Vision, and Agricultural Development Strategy (ADS). These policies aim to create seed roadmaps and foster an enabling environment to attract private sector participation. Recently, the government of Nepal approved the issuance of research and development licenses to private seed companies, allowing them to develop and deploy new seed varieties. Collaborative efforts by the Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC), Seed Quality Control Center (SQCC), and CIMMYT under the USAID-supported Nepal Seed and Fertilizer (NSAF) project are also leading to local seed companies producing hybrid seeds for rice, maize, and vegetables across various districts. However, this is at budding stage, and it needs to be scaled up further.
The nexus of seed security and resilient agrifood systems
The interplay between seed security and resilient agrifood systems is crucial for enhancing food security, particularly amidst climate change and global challenges. This relationship underscores the importance of robust seed systems that can adapt to various stresses while ensuring sustainable food production. “Seed systems are complex networks involving farmers, seed companies, service providers, and authorities, all working together to ensure high-yielding and resilient seeds reach farmers’ fields as quickly as possible,” said Bram Govaerts, Director General of CIMMYT, while addressing conference participants. He further emphasized that demand-oriented and effective seed systems help to harness the benefits of crop improvement.
The conference brought together prominent figures from South Asia and beyond, who shared their insights. “A well-functioning seed system guarantees seed security for all farmers,” noted BM Prasanna, Director of the Global Maize Program at CIMMYT, during his keynote address. He highlighted the critical nexus between seed security and resilient agrifood systems, emphasizing the need for technical, organizational, and institutional innovations. Prasanna also called for continuous public-private-producer collaboration to develop and strengthen seed systems in the global south.
Linking global and regional seed industry practices to fit into local conditions
The Hon. Minister of Agriculture and Livestock Development of Nepal, Ram Nath Adhikari, inaugurated the conference, welcoming delegates and emphasizing the event’s significance to Nepal’s agricultural sector. Benu Prasad Prasai, Chief of SQCC, shared emerging trends in Nepal’s seed industry, highlighting efforts to engage the private sector and reduce seed import dependency. “We need to harmonize and link seed policies across South Asia and beyond to fully capture the benefits of plant breeding gains,” said Prasai, while emphasizing Nepal’s potential for seed business and investment. Dyutiman Choudhary, NSAF project lead, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of international and regional partnerships in developing a vibrant seed market. He highlighted the need for enabling seed policies and regulations that facilitate market system development.
The discussions resulted in high-level recommendations to further augment Nepal’s seed sector: strengthening public-private partnerships in research and development to transform Nepal’s seed industry into a viable, resilient, and sustainable seed system; collaboration with foreign counterparts for joint research and technology exchange is vital to strengthening Nepal’s seed R&D and promoting custom seed production; legal frameworks must be developed and executed to create an enabling environment that strengthens public and private sector seed R&D efforts.
Panel discussion on creating an enabling environment for private sector engagement in seed and varietal R&D (Photo: Sirish Shrestha/CIMMYT)Official opening session of the International Seed Conference in Nepal (Photo: Deepa Woli/CIMMYT).
The World Food Prize this year celebrates the essential role of genebanks in global food security—a mission at the heart of CIMMYT’s work. Through its maize and wheat collections, CIMMYT’s genebank preserves crop diversity that is critical for developing resilient, climate-adapted varieties. Highlighted by former CIMMYT maize curator Denise Costich, this recognition underscores the value of conserving genetic resources, which allow CIMMYT and its partners to create solutions for a rapidly changing agricultural landscape. As a vital part of the global genebank network, CIMMYT’s efforts ensure that biodiversity remains a foundation for food security and resilience worldwide.
