CGIAR launches a global program for grain legumes and dryland cereal

The new research program prioritizes technology innovation and value chains.

Addis Ababa, February 19, 2018 – CGIAR’s research program on grain legumes and dryland cereals kicked off with over 130 delegates from 25 countries attending the launch event. The research program is a partnership of 44 institutions, including ICARDA, the Ethiopian government, private companies, and farmers.

The program’s vision is to improve rural livelihoods and nutrition by prioritizing increased production and market opportunities along value chains. The program focuses on six legumes (chickpea, cowpea, pigeonpea, groundnut, lentil, and soybean) and three cereals (sorghum, pearl millet, and finger millet).

“Grain legumes and sorghum and millets are what have been termed as ‘smart food’ because they are good for your heart, good for the planet, and good for the farmer,” said Ethiopia’s agriculture minister, H.E. Dr. Eyasu Abraha Alle, who inaugurated the program. “We have to work furiously for the drylands. Grain legumes and dryland cereals are well adapted to the drylands and naturally nutritious.”

The research program’s geographical focus is on sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. For more information, please click here.

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About the CGIAR: CGIAR is a global research partnership for a food-secure future. CGIAR science is dedicated to reducing poverty, enhancing food and nutrition security, and improving natural resources and ecosystem services. Fifteen CGIAR Centers in close collaboration with hundreds of partners, including national and regional research institutes, civil society organizations, academia, development organizations, and the private sector carry out its research.