The National Information Sharing Mechanism (NISM) is a partnership among stakeholders that contribute to the conservation and sustainable use of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture (PGRFA) in Malawi.
Its main objectives are to:
- Foster the exchange of information on PGRFA
- Promote understanding of PGRFA status and dynamics;
- Allow meaningful analysis of gaps and priorities in the conservation and utilization of PGRFA;
- Assist decision-making on and planning of available resources
- Increase visibility of on-going efforts in the conservation and sustainable utilization of PGRFA
- Conserve the country's historical memory on PGRFA.
- Improve capacity to manage PGRFA information and to meet international reporting commitments
A set of tools agreed by the FAO Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture are being used:
A list of indicators and a reporting format to monitor the implementation of the Global Plan of Action and an information system including a database and a search engine, which includes the most comprehensive inventory of national PGRFA-related institutions, experts, publications, laws, and projects, as well as, of cultivated varieties.
The Mechanism operates through the voluntary contribution of national institutions, coordinated by the GPA National Focal Point in collaboration with the National Steering Committee and National PGR Committee.
All stakeholders, specifically, public or private institutions, organizations, enterprises which contribute to the conservation and sustainable utilization of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture in Malawi can be part of the Mechanism by contacting the National Focal Point.
