Component 1. To enhance the collection, conservation, utilization and exchange of plant genetic resources, seed and planting materials
Output 1. International conventions and treaties for germplasm conservation and use, plant variety protection, phytosanitary and biosafety requirements implemented, to promote seed sector development
Activities at continental level
- Activity 1. Raise awareness concerning international obligations among decision-makers on issues and opportunities through high-level engagement strategies
- Activity 2. Coordinate exchange of expertise among African and other organizations to improve understanding of the requirements of international conventions and treaties including biodiversity conservation, sustainable use and phytosanitary and biosafety measures
- Activity 3. Establish mechanisms to support national and regional efforts to harmonize phytosanitary and biosafety legislation
- Activity 4. Establish mechanisms to support national and regional efforts to harmonize seed legislation and to develop model Material Transfer Agreements for common use
- Activity 5. Identify and distribute information on seed-related biotechnology, including the development of capacities to regulate biosafety
Output 2. Regional germplasm collection, safe handling and conservation strategies in place, and genebank networks established for improved germplasm exchange
Activities at regional level
Activity 1. In consultation with relevant stakeholders, prepare regional priority conservation strategies for germplasm most at risk of being lost, and implement collaborative measures to collect and conserve indigenous varieties and knowledge
Activity 2. Develop country-based regional databases to better track the status of crop varieties of regional interest and concern
Activity 3. Establish regional procedures for the safe movement of plant genetic resources including by, conducting training courses on phytosanitary guidelines and seed and planting materials handling, and quality maintenance practices for safe movement
Activity 4. Establish regional training courses to develop best practices in regional initiatives for germplasm conservation, varietal improvement and exchange
Output 3. More efficient management of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture, including improved germplasm collection, characterization, conservation and sustainable use
Activities at continental level
Activity 1. Coordinate efforts to strengthen African networks of genebanks to increase the availability and use of germplasm and associated information
Activity 2. Support development of an African information system to better document strategies for the application of biotechnologies for the conservation, sustainable use and characterization of seed and planting materials
Activity 3. Coordinate efforts to develop continent-wide collection and conservation strategies for major and minor crops, including genetic stocks that are important for food security
Activity 4. Promote the application of technologies (including biotechnology) for conservation, sustainable use and characterization of seed and planting materials
Activity 5. Promote documentation of the use of indigenous knowledge related to farmers’ varieties
