World Agroforestry (ICRAF) is an international science and development organization that integrates trees into agriculturally productive landscapes through agroforestry. By leveraging trees’ ability to support food security and environmental sustainability, ICRAF contributes to creating sustainable agricultural practices and livelihoods across the globe.
Role of Trees in Ecosystems
Trees are a vital component of terrestrial ecosystems, offering numerous ecological, economic, and social benefits. They:
- Provide essential products such as timber, fuelwood, fruits, and medicine.
- Contribute to soil fertility and prevent erosion.
- Regulate water cycles and mitigate climate change.
- Support biodiversity and enhance resilience in agricultural landscapes.
As natural vegetation continues to be cleared for development, agroforestry ensures the sustained benefits of trees by integrating them into farming systems.
About World Agroforestry
World Agroforestry (ICRAF) is recognized globally as a center of excellence for agroforestry research and development. ICRAF focuses on harnessing trees’ benefits for people and the environment, aiming to make farming systems more sustainable at local and global scales. The institution is distinguished as the only organization conducting globally significant agroforestry research across all developing tropical regions.
Key Highlights
- Director General: Tony Simons
- Board Chair: Marie Claire O’Connor
- Headquarters: Nairobi, Kenya
- Website: worldagroforestry.org
Mission and Alignment
ICRAF’s initiatives align with CGIAR’s broad development challenges and directly contribute to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:
- Zero Hunger (SDG 2): Ensuring food security through sustainable farming practices.
- No Poverty (SDG 1): Improving livelihoods by integrating trees into agriculture.
- Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7): Promoting sustainable energy sources from agroforestry.
- Life on Land (SDG 15): Protecting terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity.
- Climate Action (SDG 13): Mitigating climate change impacts through tree-based solutions.
Research and Regional Presence
ICRAF operates six regional programs across:
- Sub-Saharan Africa
- Asia
- Latin America
It also conducts agroforestry research in over 30 countries, addressing diverse challenges in tropical and developing regions.
Funding and Partnerships
ICRAF’s work is supported by:
- Governments: Providing public funding for large-scale development initiatives.
- Private Foundations: Supporting targeted research and development projects.
- International Organizations and Regional Banks: Facilitating multi-country programs and innovations.
- Private Sector: Collaborating on sustainable agricultural and forestry practices.
ICRAF also works closely with various scientific and development institutions, leveraging collaborative networks to maximize impact.
Core Contributions
Through its research, knowledge-sharing, and advocacy, ICRAF empowers:
- Governments: To design and implement policies that promote sustainable agriculture and environmental protection.
- Development Agencies: To integrate agroforestry practices into rural development programs.
- Farmers: To adopt tree-based farming systems that enhance productivity, resilience, and income.
Global Impact
ICRAF’s groundbreaking agroforestry research has transformed agricultural practices worldwide. Its science-based innovations contribute to:
- Enhancing food and energy security.
- Increasing resilience to climate change.
- Conserving biodiversity and natural resources.
- Promoting equitable and sustainable economic growth.
By fostering partnerships and leveraging scientific expertise, ICRAF continues to play a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable future for agriculture and the environment.
