Family farmers innovate by developing assemblages of old and new food system practices and organizational processes, using both traditional and diverse forms of knowledge and connecting these with newly available information and technologies. These innovations have a holistic approach and can take many forms: technological, social, policy, financial, marketing, legislative and institutional. They can cover all aspects of agrifood systems and help family farmers to fight hunger and poverty, revitalize rural areas and protect the environment.
Rural producers operate in a very complex reality. They are faced with serious and interconnected challenges such as globalized and unstable markets, volatile prices, a degrading natural resource base and the effects of climate change. In addition, especially in developing...
This brochure presents FAO ’s work on agricultural innovation. FAO advocates a shift from interventions focusing on single components of agricultural innovation towards a system-approach aimed at strengthening institutions and stakeholders’ networks that better respond to the needs of smallholder...
Fishing is one of the most dangerous jobs. Every year, more than 100 000 fishers die at work, according to estimates. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is enabling fishers to be safer while at sea in...
The subprogramme aimed to strengthen agrifood systems in East and Southern Africa, focusing on enhancing resilience, sustainability and inclusivity. Designed in response to the challenges facing agrifood systems in the region, including economic, social, environmental and health pressures, the subprogramme...
Innovation along the value chain is essential for maximizing the potential of fisheries and aquaculture to enhance food security, drive economic growth, and promote environmental sustainability. At the processing stage, innovations can help preserve quality while adding value by making products...