BSF "Strengthening indigenous communities of Cotacachi - Ecuador in conservation and use of plant genetic resource for food and agriculture as a mechanism for fair and equitable benefit-sharing"

The canton of Cotacachi in the Ecuadorian Andes mountains is an important centre of origin of beans and potatoes, and a centre of diversification of maize. Family farming, mostly led by women, constitutes the main source of food and income in the area, but is very vulnerable to climate change. Moreover, high rates of poverty, malnutrition and food insecurity characterize many communities. This Benefit-Sharing Fund project of the International Treaty for Food and Agriculture (Fourth Cycle) "Strengthening indigenous communities of Cotacachi - Ecuador in conservation and use of plant genetic resource for food and agriculture as a mechanism for fair and equitable benefit-sharing" will address the loss of native crop diversity and build community resilience in Cotocachi.