These Guidelines on the Establishment and Management of Community Genebanks have been developed to address the lack of uniformity and standardization in the management of community genebanks among SADC Member States, which have traditionally followed approaches suited to their specific contexts. SADC plant genetic resources programs aim to operate under standardized procedures to ensure regional synchrony in agricultural development. These guidelines represent the first step towards establishing common procedures for managing plant genetic resources for food and agriculture within the SADC region, fostering economic development for all. The guidelines are based on the principle that central governments are the custodians of a country's plant genetic resources, ensuring that community-based conservation programs align with national, regional, and global frameworks. The primary goal is to maximize the benefits communities derive from the resources they conserve while making these resources available to researchers, thereby contributing to plant breeding and enhancing food productivity at national, regional, and global levels for the betterment of the global population. The document emphasizes the importance of conserving plant genetic resources (PGR) in an agriculture-dependent region where the majority of the population relies on farming for their livelihoods. Many inhabitants are smallholder farmers practicing subsistence agriculture, and they play a crucial role in ensuring food and nutrition security by maintaining crop diversity. The guidelines detail the roles of National Plant Genetic Resource Centres (NPGRCs) and propose governance approaches for community genebanks. Key topics include the collection and documentation of accessions, which are vital for maintaining genetic diversity. The guidelines recommend using standardized descriptors for crop characterization to ensure uniform data collection across the region. Additionally, the text discusses the regeneration and multiplication of seeds, emphasizing the need for basic field assessments to evaluate crop performance under local conditions. The guidelines aim to empower communities by enhancing seed security and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. By documenting and sharing information about stored germplasm, the SADC seeks to foster collaboration among member states and improve the overall management of plant genetic resources. Ultimately, these efforts are designed to support food security and agricultural resilience in the region, ensuring that smallholder farmers can continue to thrive and contribute to their communities.
2020-08-01