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African Orphan Crops Consortium 2018 Progress Report

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AOCC

African Orphan Crops Consortium 2018 Progress Report

2018 was a significant year for the African Orphan Crops Consortium (AOCC). This year, the AOCC and the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) mobilized to improve nutritional security in all FAO member states, as detailed in their letter of intent agreed in 2017. This represents a crucial milestone, as the agreement and initiatives recognize and promote the AOCC’s ‘orphan crops’ approach to addressing food security by improving the nutritional content of key crop species in Africa. ‘Orphan crops’ refers to a diverse range of plant species that are economically and socio-culturally important but which are neglected by science and research because they are not widely traded commodities. The orphan crops approach aims to raise the importance of these essential species and accelerate research activities for plant growth and development. This is crucial for combatting malnutrition and chronic hunger, strengthening food security globally. By 2030, the use of nutritious, climate resilient African crops stimulated by AOCC activities are expected to be a part of dietary improvements in 20% of rural populations and 10% of urban populations.