The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) urged the use of technology to transform Africa’s agri-food systems during a forum held in Nairobi, Kenya. The event, co-hosted by the FAO, gathered plant scientists from across the continent to explore new possibilities for African underutilized crops, also known as “orphan crops.”
In a video message, FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu emphasized that focusing on orphan crops is about more than food security—it empowers communities by promoting crops that are resilient, nutritious, and well-adapted to local environments. Africa is home to a diverse range of underutilized crops, including staples like millet and exotic fruits such as mangosteen. These crops, vital to local diets and cultural heritage, have been overlooked in research, investment, and policy discussions.
The forum reviewed the achievements of the African Orphan Crops Consortium (AOCC), which has supported over 172 scientists from 28 African countries—40 percent of them women—in applying genomics-assisted approaches to crop improvement. Discussions also centered on integrating orphan crops into national agri-food strategies and expanding the AOCC model across Africa.
Qu highlighted the challenges of reducing hunger and ensuring sustainable, nutritious food production in Africa, stressing the need for science and innovation. He called for broader access to crop improvement technologies, local capacity development, and continued support for African farmers and scientists.
So far, orphan crops assessed include mustard, okra, breadfruit, yams, and indigenous varieties like Plectranthus rotundifolius, demonstrating their potential to boost food security and sustainability across the continent.
