Plant Genetic Resources directly or indirectly support livelihoods. The genetic diversity contained in traditional varieties and modern cultivars, crop wild relatives and landraces provide a basis for food production and act as buffer for adaptation and resilience in face of climate change. The conservation and sustainable use of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture (PGRFA) combined with an effective seed system are essential contributions to combating hunger and achieving the Millenium Development Goals.

Our Vision is to integrate conservation and sustainable utilization of seeds and PGRFA effectively into policy frameworks and action strategies that ensures a comprehensive response to the needs of farmers for the sustainable intensification of crop production.

We Provide policy advice and technical assistance to strengthen national capacities in this sector within the framework of the international instruments including Global Plan of Action for the Conservation and Sustainable Utilization of Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture and the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture and in partnership with the relevant organizations.