Beans ExCo

CIAT and partners have worked for over 40 years to improve bean varieties and farming practices in Latin America and Africa. New varieties have higher iron and zinc content. Beans provide a low-cost protein alternative to meat and help smallholder farmers, especially women. The estimated economic value of new varieties and practices in five African countries from 1986-2015 was $198 million. However, challenges remain in reaching more farmers, balancing food security and markets, and developing varieties resilient to climate change and new pests.