First International Multi-stakeholder Symposium on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture

Recognizing the importance of crop diversity is crucial for achieving food security and improved nutrition. Failure to conserve and manage these critically important plant genetic resources for food and agriculture (PGRFA) will result in their loss. There is therefore a need to:

• Focus on science-led innovations for in situ conservation and management on-farm;
• Share experiences on enhancing national and international cooperation; and
• Further develop information systems based on gaps identified.

The Symposium addresses the above by highlighting the current state of knowledge and the enabling environment for in situ conservation and on-farm management of crop diversity. It provides an open-ended forum for the exchange of information and experiences among technical experts, practitioners and other stakeholders. It will increase understanding of the role and importance of in situ conservation of crop wild relatives and wild food plants and on-farm management of farmers’ varieties/landraces.

This Symposium is part of ongoing efforts of the FAO Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture to facilitate collaboration among practitioners involved in the conservation and sustainable use of PGRFA. This event is held together with the Secretariat of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture and the Global Crop Diversity Trust.