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Forets Food

 

FORETS program Yangambi - Use of Coffea genetic resources in the implementation of a Coffee Value Chain in the Yangambi Landscape

CIFOR implements its activities in the Yangambi Engagement Landscape (YEL). The work to be conducted by Meise BG fits within the activities funded by the European Union under various projects, namely FORETS-Phase II, FORETS-FOOD and FORETS-AGRI. Activities in the YEL are the direct continuation of FORESTS-Phase I and NPC, and they are defined as a substantial contribution to the integrated development of the Yangambi Landscape (www.yangambi.org). The specific objectives aim at the conservation and enhancement of biodiversity while contributing to the sustainable development of selected value-chains and the local populations. Several specific activities are planned: 

  • Management, maintenance & extension of the coffee collection in Yangambi - As the genetic resources are essential for the adaptation of the coffee cultivation to global change, their conservation is essential for the DRCongo and abroad.
  • Continued evaluation of the coffee genetic resources, including in-depth evaluation of the 35 most promising Robusta strains - DR Congo is the most important diversity center for Robusta coffee genetic resources, but is still poorly documented and valorised, this activity will evaluate the CGRs and identify new interesting genetic lines.
  • Continued exploration of the Congo Basin for new coffee genetic resources - The coffee genetic resources are important but underrepresented in collection and their natural habitat is under pressure, therefore collecting these coffee genetic resources is essential for the future of the coffee cultivation.
  • Production of a roadmap for the development of the coffee value-chain with stakeholders - This activity will conduct a coffee value chain assessment, detailing current and future potentials for production, processing and marketing. In addition, training of local partners’ staff will be provided on the most relevant steps along the chain (production, post-harvesting, marketing, etc.).
  • Production of green coffee samples for teasering & tasting events for stakeholders (coffee sector & funding agencies) - Sensibilization of the coffee sector with the aim to link local production to national and international market
  • Maintenance, following up and evaluation of existing agroforestry fields, and preparation of ‘commercial’ agroforestry plantations.


Financed by: European Union