Publications

The rural people in developing countries are often far removed from many important decision-making processes. Production and consumption of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) is a topical issue and could impact on socio-cultural systems of rural populations in developing countries. Involving the rural people in decision-making on GMOs was discussed during this moderated e-mail conference hosted by the FAO Biotechnology Forum in 2005.

In 2003, FAO launched an on-line searchable database called FAO-BioDeC, providing information on biotechnology products/techniques in use or in the pipeline in developing countries (including countries with economies in transition). This report by Z. Dhlamini, C. Spillane, J.P. Moss, J. Ruane, N. Urquia and A. Sonnino, provides a first analysis of about 2,000 crop-sector entries from 71 developing countries contained in the database as of 31 August 2004. Entries cover genetically modified (GM) crops and non-GM biotechnologies (such as micropropagation, molecular markers, diagnostics (e.g. ELISA) and microbial techniques).

Agricultural biotechnology is a national priority and following ratification of a national agricultural biotechnology programme, implemented in 2001-2005, a national commission was established to address issues of biotechnology and biosafety policy.

This paper analyses the main trends foreseen for developments in African agriculture, food and nutrition, inputs and natural resource use, and also the challenges emanating from the trends. It discusses the role of research and technology dissemination and adoption as key elements that need to be incorporated into a long-term, sustainable, strategy for the agricultural development of Africa. Finally, the last section highlights the main components that require more short-term, immediate actions and investments to avert food insecurity in Africa.

Ce livre contient Volume I: Aux sources de l’agriculture africaine: de la préhistoire au Mmoyen âge.

FAO has developed an inventory of plant biotechnology products and techniques in use or in the pipeline in developing countries. The inventory has been compiled and organized into a searchable online database called the FAO Biotechnology In Developing Countries Database (FAO-BioDeC). This document summarizes and analyses the information contained in the database as of 31 August 2004. The database was set up to provide developing countries with accurate information on biotechnology activities, as FAO recognizes the role that biotechnology can play in augmenting agricultural production when properly integrated with other technologies.

This paper, firstly, analyzes the main global trends and challenges foreseen for developments in agriculture, food, nutrition and trade; secondly, it examines the role of scientific research and technology in dealing with the various challenges and opportunities and, finally, it discusses paradigm shifts, policy adjustments and strategies for harnessing science, technology and knowledge towards enhanced and sustained agrarian prosperity.

This publications provides information about buffalo species throughout the world and explores their importance for the livelihoods of many rural families in developing countries. The publication illustrates the buffalo's importance as a draught animal, but also its role as a source of meat, horns, skin and the rich milk that provides creams, butter, yoghurt and many cheeses.

Resumen de la conferencia electrónica de la FAO sobre “Selección con ayuda de marcadores moleculares como potencial para el mejoramiento genético de cultivos, árboles, ganado y pesca en los países en desarrollo”. Este documento de 10 páginas tiene como fin ofrecer una sinopsis de fácil lectura sobre los principales temas debatidos por los participantes a lo largo de esta conferencia electrónica moderada, patrocinada por el Foro de biotecnología de la FAO del 17 de noviembre al 14 de diciembre de 2003. Durante las cuatro semanas de esta conferencia se publicaron 85 mensajes, de los cuales cerca del 60 por ciento ...read more