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.
Written by mcallejas on . Posted in Uncategorized.
Satyam Saxena is an economist with research interests in the economics of sustainable agriculture. Since joining CIMMYT-India in 2022, he has primarily focused on assessing the impacts of resource use, productivity, and farmers’ livelihoods. Prior to his role at CIMMYT, Satyam was a research officer at the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad (2019-2022), where he contributed to the UN-SDSN FABLE Pathways project, which aims to develop sustainable food and land use systems.
Satyam holds a master’s degree in economics from the University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun, and a bachelor’s degree in commerce from the University of Delhi. His research has been published in several peer-reviewed journals and book chapters, contributing to the academic discourse on sustainable development.
Crops struggling to grow in drought conditions, Bihar (Photo: Moben Ignatius/CIMMYT)
Agriculture is one of the sectors most affected by droughts, which can last for months or even years. In Bihar, where rain-fed agriculture is the primary source of livelihood for many, droughts can be devastating for rural farmers. The growing threat of climate change to crop production and farming practices calls for adopting alternative farming methods. In 2022-23, many districts in Bihar experienced drought conditions.
To better understand the impact of drought on crop production practices and farmers’ livelihoods, researchers from CSISA, a CIMMYT-led project, conducted a survey in Bihar during both the Kharif and Rabi seasons of 2022-23, the year of the drought. In the Kharif season, 518 farmers from 11 districts, 39 blocks, and 79 villages were surveyed, while 339 farmers participated in the Rabi season survey. The primary goal of this data collection was to assess the impact of drought on agricultural practices and provide evidence to guide policy and decision-making processes.
The survey collected data on 123 variables related to rice production, including land preparation, cropping patterns for 2022 and 2021, crop establishment methods, irrigation management, fertilizer application, and weed management. Farmers also shared their perceptions of how the drought had altered their rice production practices and affected their livelihoods compared to the previous year.
For many farmers, the experience of the drought was harsh. Magni Singh from East Champaran reflected on the challenges: “This year (2022), the drought hit us hard. I could only plant paddy on a small piece of land, but with no rain, there was not much harvest. Our fragmented land makes efficient irrigation almost impossible, and relying on rain feels like gambling with each season. Farming in these conditions is becoming increasingly unsustainable.”
Similarly, Shanti Devi of Banka shared her struggles: “The season started with drought, and we struggled to get water to the crops. By the time the rain came, it was too late – it came during the harvest and damaged the crop. I couldn’t afford fertilizers in time, which made things worse. Every year, it feels like we’re battling both nature and rising costs.”
This drought impact assessment by CSISA is also valuable for further research, particularly for comparing rice production practices between drought and non-drought years. Such comparisons can help researchers and policymakers develop effective drought mitigation strategies tailored to farmers’ needs.
An electric pump used to irrigate a paddy field in Buxar, Bihar (Photo: Nima Chodon/CIMMYT)
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.
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).
CIMMYT contributed over 5,400 maize and wheat samples to the Svalbard Global Seed Vault’s recent historic deposit, reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding crop diversity essential for global food security. These deposits protect genetic resources vital for adapting to climate change and improving resilience, especially in vulnerable regions. This backup effort ensures CIMMYT’s research on these staple crops remains available to support sustainable food systems and address crises worldwide.
Ethiopia’s agricultural and food production systems face significant challenges due to soil acidity. Approximately 41% of the country’s cultivated land is affected, with 28% of this area being highly acidic. Heavy rainfall and inherent soil properties are significant drivers of this, and practices like continuous residue removal greatly accelerate these conditions.
Stakeholders attending the national workshop on acid soil management in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (Photo: CIMMYT)
The resulting acidic soil conditions can severely limit the uptake of critical nutrients, leading to lower yields and poorer crop responses to inputs. As a result, Ethiopia’s soil acidity conditions constrain the production and productivity of the country’s main staple crops and compromise efforts to achieve national food security.To help address these problems, policymakers, technical experts, and development partners in Ethiopia have come together to advocate for innovative data-driven solutions to remediate acid soils to raise crop yields and promote sustainable economic growth.
“At a national workshop convened by CIMMYT and the One CGIAR initiative on Excellence in Agronomy on 29 July 2024 in Addis Ababa, experts from CGIAR, the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA), the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR), universities, regional research institutes, the national soil health task force, NGOs, and other key stakeholders gathered to discuss acid soil management in Ethiopia. Participants emphasized that proper management of soil acidity could increase fertilizer use efficiency from 20% to as much as 90%, depending on the initial acidity levels and specific nutrients involved.
Tackling soil acidity
“Acidic soils are complex and widespread, affecting millions of hectares of arable land in Ethiopia,” said Tesfaye Shiferaw, an agronomist with CIMMYT’s Sustainable Agrifood Systems program and regional lead for the One CGIAR initiative on Excellence in Agronomy. “We understand the situation well and have developed innovative solutions under the GAIA project to address the issue. The spatial targeting framework created within the project represents a significant breakthrough, which the MoA has incorporated into Ethiopia’s nationwide acid soil reclamation initiative.”
Feto Esimo, Director General of EIAR, highlighted, “Addressing soil acidity is critical for enhancing food security and economic development in Ethiopia. A few years ago, we appealed to partners to intensify their efforts in creating sustainable strategies with lasting impacts for future generations. We are now seeing the GAIA project’s ongoing efforts effectively addressing these issues and offering potential solutions.”
The GAIA project approach
Project research team monitoring and evaluating the field activities in Jimma Zone-Ethiopia (Photo: CIMMYT)
Researchers on the GAIA project have been evaluating alternative approaches to managing soil acidity, with a particular focus on lime application. This method aims to reduce aluminum toxicity and improve the availability of essential nutrients such as phosphorus (P), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and potassium (K) in the soil. Additionally, liming decreases the solubility and leaching of heavy metals and offers benefits for legumes, such as increased microbial activity and enhanced biological nitrogen fixation. The GAIA team’s detailed evaluation includes core activities like spatial targeting to identify priority areas for liming, determining optimal lime application rates, and assessing profitability for specific crop types.
The primary goal in Ethiopia is to guide targeted investments for effective soil health reclamation and increased agricultural productivity through liming and enhanced nutrient management. The project aims to establish a strategic spatial targeting framework, serving as both a policy tool and a blueprint for soil health management. This framework is designed to optimize lime application, ensuring it is prioritized in areas where it can deliver the highest return on investment for farmers and the government. Project outcomes also include expanding this framework for broader application.
Major project outcomes in Ethiopia
The GAIA research team conducted an in-depth investigation into the interactions between lime and fertilizer, developed a workflow and an essential policy tool integrated into the Ethiopian National Soil Information System (NSIS), and presented evidence-based recommendations on acid soil remediation to national and regional policy forums. The following significant system-level accomplishments have resulted from CIMMYT and partners’ research-driven recommendations.
Firstly, the Ethiopian Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) recognizes the GAIA project’s model as a successful blueprint for implementing and scaling up acid soil remediation nationwide. The government has launched a plan to reclaim 300,000 hectares of acidic cropland in 2024–2025, targeting around 10% of affected areas identified through the spatial targeting framework. To support this initiative, 1.4 billion ETB (approximately 12 million USD) has been allocated to manage acidic agricultural land. Additionally, at the National Stakeholder Consultation Forum on Acid Soils held in Bonga town, South-Western Region, in April 2023, the Ethiopian government prioritized soil acidity as a key focus. Since then, the government has reinforced its commitment to soil health programs, incorporating lime as an essential input alongside improved seeds and fertilizer.
These storylines were highlighted in July 2024 during a national working group meeting aimed at streamlining acid soil management strategies across Ethiopia. The meeting, led by GAIA and EiA in collaboration with the MoA and supported by the One CGIAR initiative EiA, underscored the strategic progress made by the GAIA project in addressing soil acidity. According to Feto Esimo, Director General of the EIAR, these advancements signify a substantial improvement, promising a lasting impact beyond the current agricultural season. He expressed appreciation for the project’s achievements and advocated for its expansion to serve as a model for similar soil health programs across the country.
“Lime is the most widely used remedy, and its effectiveness in increasing yields when combined with fertilizer is well-documented,” noted Temesgen Desalegn, Director of Natural Resources Management Research at EIAR. “In this context,” he continued, “the GAIA project is timely, offering a multifaceted approach to soil health management, not limited to acid soils. The project’s model has been widely welcomed and could provide a comprehensive strategy for other soil health initiatives in Ethiopia.”
National working group on acid soil management workshop participants in Addis Ababa (Photo: CIMMYT)
The national working group meeting reached a consensus on recognizing project outcomes that drive system-level impacts. This effort to build a strong consensus extends beyond Ethiopia; it reflects a broader continental trend, highlighted by the Africa Fertilizer and Soil Health Action Plan: 2024–2034. This plan emerged from the Africa Fertilizer and Soil Health Summit held in May 2024 in Nairobi, Kenya, under the theme ‘Listen to the Land,’ organized by the African Union.
The GAIA project, funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF), supports large-scale rehabilitation of acid soils in East Africa through data-driven insights and evidence-based recommendations for decision-makers. Led by CIMMYT in collaboration with various partners across Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania, the project works in partnership with the Excellence in Agronomy (EiA) initiative of the One CGIAR. In Ethiopia, GAIA is implemented in cooperation with the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR).
CIMMYT, through the USAID-funded Sustainable Agrifood Systems Approach for Sudan (SASAS) program, empowers farmers and herders to reduce their reliance on humanitarian assistance, even in conflict-affected Sudan, where over 10 million people have been displaced and livelihoods across the country have been severely impacted. Improving agricultural value chains and agribusiness development is one of the five broad intervention areas of the SASAS program.
Several SASAS program partners support agribusiness development by working directly with micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), which act as intermediaries between large firms and smallholder farmers, facilitating farmers’ access to inputs and promoting national food security. The critical role and challenges faced by agricultural MSMEs have been exacerbated by the ongoing civil war in Sudan. Due to pre-existing gender norms, the impact may differ between women and men entrepreneurs. SASAS implementing partners urgently need up-to-date, ground-level insights into the key business challenges. This includes understanding which businesses are existing and why, identifying promising and actionable coping strategies adopted by agrifood entrepreneurs, and capturing MSME owners’ perspectives on the priority interventions needed to support them.
To provide SASAS partners with critical evidence to inform their development activities with agricultural MSMEs, a team of CIMMYT researchers conducted semi-structured interviews in May 2024 with 20 women and 20 men agrifood enterprise owners residing in Kassala and Gadarif states. The findings from this research were documented in reports. The next phase of the CIMMYT team’s participatory action research focused on holding results dissemination meetings in each of the two states. The purpose of these meetings was to share study findings with research participants and SASAS partners, Mercy Corps and Practical Action, and provide an opportunity for feedback. This feedback helps clarify and validate the study findings and is central to the CIMMYT team’s approach to generating nuanced, contextually based lessons that inform the programming of SASAS partners working with agribusinesses.
Attendance at results dissemination meetings and perceptions of participants
The results dissemination meetings brought together SASAS development partners and MSME owners (research participants). In Kassala, 20 agrifood entrepreneurs (10 women and 10 men), along with several representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA), the Humanitarian Aid Commission (HAC), and local Kassala communities, attended the meeting. CIMMYT’s partner, Practical Action, co-organized the session. In Gadarif, 13 agrifood entrepreneurs (10 women and 3 men) were joined by representatives from the MoA and local community leaders for the results dissemination meeting, hosted by CIMMYT’s partner Mercy Corps. Participants in both states engaged actively in open discussions about the research findings, offering valuable feedback, while also helping to validate and refine the results.
Participants in the research results dissemination meeting –in Kassala actively participate in the group work (Photo: Mohamed Abdulmajid/CIMMYT)
After introductions and an icebreaker, the results dissemination meetings turned into a brief presentation of key study findings facilitated by CIMMYT’s MEL consultant, Mudar Ahmed. Participants in both meetings listened intently, and their initial feedback conveyed the relevance of the study results to their lives. For instance, when asked about the applicability of the study findings, one participant in Kassala said, “The research on the impact of war on women and men agrifood entrepreneurs is valuable as it gathers various perspectives on how war has affected our work, outlines the challenges we face, identifies coping mechanisms, and offers suggestions to overcome the current bottleneck.”
Social norms influencing women’s and men’s participation in the agrifood sector
One of the factors influencing CIMMYT’s selection of Gadarif and Kassala states as study sites, aside from the relatively stable security situation and concentration of agrifood enterprises, was the interesting contrast the two states offer in terms of women’s participation in the labor market and (agricultural) business operation, with women in Gadarif generally being more active. During the meetings, participants were asked to elaborate on these gender dynamics and how they play out in their lives.
A female participant in Kassala state explained this regional difference in gendered agricultural roles and shared insights into how and why it is changing over time, “In Gadarif most of the agricultural activities are rainfed and farms are in remote areas, limiting the number of women in cultivation activities. However, more and more women cooperatives are active in agriculture and many of them get loans from funding institutions and receive technical support from women’s empowerment institutions. The main challenge that hinders more women from participating in agricultural activities in Gadarif is that rainfed cultivation requires a lot of financial resources that women cannot access. In Kassala, although the community is more conservative and many believe that women need to stay at home and not to go out for work, more and more women are active in agricultural activities, including manual weed control and harvesting. Now thousands of women in Kassala are active in vegetable production and processing like drying okra and onions.”
Participants further explained that while there are differences in occupational gender dynamics in different states, in general, women farmers in Sudan face major barriers to agricultural entrepreneurship regardless of location. However, some highlighted ongoing improvements towards gender equality. A female participant in Gadarif had this to say: “Most agricultural land is inherited or assigned by authorities, often excluding women from ownership. However, as more women become active agrifood entrepreneurs, many have purchased farms, and several women’s cooperatives have gained access to these lands.”
Participants in the results dissemination meeting in Gadarif (Photo: Mohamed Abdulmajid/CIMMYT)
War-related challenges to daily business operations
One of the top discussion points at the meetings, was the war-related challenges to participants’ daily business operations.
A male agricultural input dealer in Gadarif noted, “Since the conflict began, prices for agricultural inputs have soared and availability has decreased, leaving us without funding and diminished profits. Many of our customers have exited agriculture and stopped purchasing from us, resulting in significant stagnation. To mitigate the adverse effects of the war on our business, we have sought joint ventures with other dealers to cut operational costs and are looking for funding to revive our operations.”
A female agrifood entrepreneur in Kassala described how internal displacement during the war has strained her business, driven by a sense of obligation to help those most in need “Due to the ongoing conflict in Sudan, hundreds of thousands of displaced people resorted to Kassala state seeking safety and work opportunities. However, the limited housing capacity in the town forced many displaced people to shelter on farms limiting our cultivation activities. As vegetables and fruit producers, we had to give some of our yields freely to these vulnerable displaced people.”
A participant sharing his view during a group discussion in Gadarif (Photo: Mohamed Abdulmajid/CIMMYT)
War-related financial challenges
Participants discussed how the ongoing conflict has impacted access to finance, cash flow, and overall business sustainability. They highlighted several challenges, including the loss of assets, difficulties in accessing loans, and shifts in market dynamics caused by the war. In both Kassala and Gadarif, discussions emphasized the rising prices, which have directly affected their businesses and personal lives.
A common issue raised was the lack of adequate financial assistance, largely due to the suspension of financial aid projects that previously provided grants or microfinance through various institutions. Participants in Kassala proposed forming partnerships with institutions that could offer funding opportunities as a potential solution. Meanwhile, participants in Gadarif suggested creating small savings funds to meet the needs of the most vulnerable by offering credit opportunities within the community.
War-related non-financial challenges
Participants in this group discussed the broader non-financial impacts of the ongoing conflict, focusing on issues such as displacement, lack of infrastructure, and psychological stress. They shared personal experiences and explained how these challenges have negatively impacted business operations and development.
In Kassala, one of the key issues raised was the suspension of education, which has left thousands of students out of school. This directly affected businesses involved in food production and marketing to students. Another major challenge discussed was the increased competition in the labor market, exacerbated by the influx of internally displaced persons (IDPs). Participants suggested that small NGOs should provide more support to herders and called for government intervention to address the education crisis.
In Gadarif, the group discussed security concerns that have made it difficult to conduct business operations or even move around the area safely. They also noted the strain on basic services due to the influx of IDPs, which has led to overpopulation of the state. As solutions, participants emphasized the need for an end to the conflict, improved security, and better services to address the IDP crisis and strengthen basic infrastructure and social services.
Future business plans and needs
At the results dissemination meetings, agrifood entrepreneurs openly discussed how the ongoing conflict has affected their business expansion plans. As one male participant in Kassala state noted, “Our growth plans have been severely affected by the current economic situation, as many financial institutions are no longer operating, the operational and fuel costs are high, our marketing areas have shrunk, we face competition from new businesses established by displaced people, and public services such as electricity, water, and transportation are under increased demand.”
While most participants agreed that the conflict has created significant challenges, some meeting participants described opportunities that have arisen for local agrifood entrepreneurs during the current civil war in Sudan. For example, some participants described how internally displaced farmers have begun to cultivate in Gadarif and Kassala, creating a moderate demand for agricultural inputs that has benefited agribusinesses. It was also noted that displaced entrepreneurs have started new businesses in the two states, which, in addition to financial and other support from international NGOs, has facilitated the acquisition of new skills and technologies, including solar systems for processing agricultural products. Finally, one participant explained that the conflict has made entrepreneurs become more agile. These observations provide examples of human resilience and document how growth can persist even under the most challenging circumstances.
A participant shares the findings from a group discussion about the Impact of War on Women and Men Agrifood Entrepreneurs Research (Photo: Mohamed Abdulmajid/CIMMYT)
In the sleepy village of Mshewe in Tanzania’s Mbeya District, a group of women is quietly revolutionizing their community through a powerful blend of agricultural entrepreneurship and social transformation. Since its inception in 2010, the Zinduka Women group has grown from a collective of women survivors of gender-based violence to an inspiring force for change that is uplifting families and challenging societal norms.
Empowerment through economic independence is at the heart of their mission, and their name “Zinduka”— a Swahili word meaning “to wake up, come to one’s senses, or gain consciousness,”—aptly describes the group’s journey. Supported by the Southern Africa Accelerated Innovation Delivery Initiative (AID-I) project, these women have moved beyond the shadows of their past to redefine their future. Today, they stand as role models, not only in agriculture but as champions of women’s empowerment.
From Beans to Big Dreams
Since their inception in 2010, the women of Zinduka have faced the challenges of limited yields and outdated farming methods. Taking a leap of faith, they sought out partnerships that could provide them with the necessary tools and training. Collaborating with the Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI) and the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), the women embarked on an ambitious two-year journey of modern agricultural training, transforming their humble bean farm into a scalable, profitable venture. By adopting improved seed varieties like the Zinc and iron-rich Jesca beans, the group saw their yields soar from 120 kg to over 500 kg per hectare—a testament to the power of education and perseverance.
Witness Kayanga, the group’s chairperson, recalls the turning point for the women of Zinduka: ‘We realized that to break the cycle of poverty and oppression, we needed more than just hard work; we needed knowledge and resources. That’s when things started to change.’
Innovation Meets Empowerment
With support from USAID, through CIMMYT’s AID-I project, the Zinduka Women’s Group has made remarkable progress. Today, 11 of the 38 group members are Quality Declared Seed (QDS) producers, enabling them to contribute to local food security by producing high-quality seeds while also generating a sustainable income. The group has also received a production machine that has significantly improved their efficiency. When not in use by the group, the machine is rented out to others in the community, creating an additional revenue stream.
The group’s association with NMB Bank has given them access to credit facilities that have strengthened their financial position. Furthermore, the acquisition of a digital weighing scale has brought much-needed precision to their work. These developments have enabled them to expand their business, and the impact is visible not only in their increased earnings but also in their confidence. One group member proudly shared, ‘We used to face heavy losses as some traders exploited us by using tampered tins, causing us to sell more grain for less. Now, we are more than just farmers; we are businesswomen.’
This support has empowered the Zinduka Women’s Group to not only improve their agricultural output but also elevate their standing in the community as businesswomen.
Recognizing the untapped potential for value-added products, they began producing bean flour, cakes, and pastries, which quickly gained popularity in their village and beyond. Bean flour has emerged as a healthier, more nutritious alternative, leading to an increase in demand within Mshewe. As part of their forward-thinking approach, the Zinduka Women’s Group is now exploring the introduction of premium packaging for their high-zinc and iron-rich Jesca beans. This differentiation will enable them to command higher prices in the market, further increasing their profitability and sustainability.
The group still needs more support in terms of access to capital and mechanization, as their production scale increases and so does their reliance on equipment and market linkages. Efficiently matching seed supply with market demand remains critical to avoid the risk of selling valuable seed stocks as regular grain. Nonetheless, their progress is a testament to how access to training, tools, and financial services can transform the lives of smallholder farmers and strengthen local food systems.
Beyond Agriculture: A Beacon for Women’s Rights
While the Zinduka Women Group’s agricultural success is impressive, it is their role as advocates for gender equality that truly sets them apart. Most members have overcome significant personal trauma, using their economic success as a shield against future abuse. The group’s work is now seen as a model for integrating gender empowerment into rural development.
Not only are they transforming their own lives, but they are actively mentoring other women and youth in the region, amplifying their impact. Their success has attracted attention from various organizations, keen to replicate their model of combining agricultural innovation with social change.
A Future Built on Partnership and Hope
USAID’s support has unlocked a future of potential for the women’s group. By equipping them with the tools to succeed in agriculture and beyond, the foundation has been laid for sustainable growth, not only for the Zinduka Women’s Group but for the entire community.
In parts of the conflict-ridden Sudan, including the eastern regions such as Kassala and Gadarif, rainfall is sparse and recurring droughts caused by climate change compound the issue. Consequently, perennial grasses that are supposed to grow back year after year are dramatically disappearing.
In addition, uncontrolled and heavy grazing in large areas in Sudan is also negatively affecting soil by increasing erosion, and cattle hooves can compact the soil, preventing plant roots from receiving enough oxygen, water, and nutrients.
Due to these factors, many pastoralist groups in east Sudan are seeking grazing resources outside their recognized tribal territory. A major problem for these groups has been the recurrent droughts and the deterioration of pasture areas, which has forced them to stay longer in areas with rich grazing, thus competing with other groups and leading to frictions and conflicts.
Livestock-Food Systems Development (LFSD) is a component of the Sustainable Agrifood Systems Approach for Sudan (SASAS), funded by USAID, focused on the dairy and meat subsector of the livestock sector. The LFSD aims to enhance the utilization of appropriate forage and feeding options through the demarcation of migratory routes to ease access to grazing, avoid conflicts, and reduce long-distance livestock travel impact on livestock health.
Along with partners, Practical Action and International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), LFSD, is establishing a 50 km migratory route demarcation from Al Hindiiyya to Banqir in the Atbara River locality, Kassala State, East Sudan. These routes connect villages to public grazing land for livestock to pass through without impacting farmland.
The intervention also includes reseeding 1,000 feddans (around 420 hectares) of grazing lands and creating water ponds for animals during the rainy season. SASAS is also enhancing water harvesting by using a tractor to increase soil moisture. The two interventions were recommended by local communities and agriculture and animal resources authorities in Kassala state.
“As the rainy season is commencing, we started working with the local communities and reseeding the targeted areas in rural Kassala and River Atbara localities as recommended by the Ministry of Agriculture,” said Dr. Abdallah Osman, Project Manager, Practical Action.
Reseeding around 1,000 feddans of grazing lands in River Atbara Locality, Kassala (Photo:Suliman Fadlalla/CIMMYT )
“To ensure the best results, we used a mix of five high-quality seed types, all of which were recommended by the Kassala State Ministry of Agriculture,” Osman said.
The reseeding will serve 15 villages and enhance grazing lands for over 100,000 animals in the area. In addition, water storing capacity will be increased by constructing 15 large water ponds.
“For the past decades, our grazing lands had diminished gradually, and we face huge challenges in feeding our livestock, especially during dry seasons. In most cases, we had to buy costly fodder and water trucking,” said Ahmed Hassan, a community leader and a herder from River Atbara Locality, Kassala State. “We feel very proud to participate in reseeding the grazing lands in our areas, as this will increase grass yield and quality, enabling us to feed our animals better.”
The intervention also aims to rehabilitate animal migratory route demarcations to ease access to grazing, avoid conflicts, and reduce long-distance livestock travel impact on livestock health.
“As farmers, we suffer a lot from animals that cross into our agricultural fields and destroy our crops. We are relieved that reseeding will create more grazing lands for herders, and the demarcation of animal routes will help reduce the chronic seasonal conflicts between farmers and herders,” said Haw Osman, a farmer from Am Safri, Kassala Rural locality.
“At SASAS, we strive to ensure that herders have access to rich grazing lands. We work with our partners to address all problems linked to overgrazing, reseeding pasture lands, and treating the causes of conflict between herders and farmers. We involve local communities in creating clear animal migration routes away from farms and increasing water sources for animals through water harvesting projects,” said Abdelrahman Kheir, SASAS Chief of Party in Sudan.
Water harvesting to create water ponds for animals in River Atbara Locality, Kassala State (Photo: Suliman Fadlalla/CIMMYT )SASAS partners work with local communities in rural Kassala and River Atbara to mark animal migration routes for animals (Photo: Suliman Fadlalla/CIMMYT)
