SciDev.Net

A technique that increases genetic mutation rates in crops could aid the global food crisis but needs more investment.

Malaysia will host an international body to encourage investment and research into underused plant species relied on by the poor.

Biotechnology will not offer the full solution to Africa's food problems, warn scientists at the All Africa Congress on Biotechnology.

Researchers in developing countries will screen thousands of crops for traits to help them adapt to climate change.

Unsustainable demand for bushmeat poses a threat to central Africa's food security, calling for regulation of hunting and trade.

The Chinese government will roll out a US$3.5 billion research project for GM crops later this month.

Brazilian scientists warn in a report that Brazil's agriculture could be severely affected by climate change in the coming years.

Scientists from Africa have revealed the origins of the virulent maize streak virus, which causes devastating disease on the continent.

African small-scale farmers will benefit from the rehabilitation of agricultural infrastructure, with Ghana, Madagascar and Mali first in line.

The US Agency for International Development is planning to cut funds to international agricultural research, despite rising food prices.

A global agriculture study has called for an increase in agricultural research to feed the world's growing population sustainably.

A round-up of news from or about South Asia for the period 1–15 March 2008.

The African component of an initiative aiming to provide small farmers with tailor-made rice varieties has been launched in Benin.

A round up of news from or about Sub-Saharan Africa for the period 25 February–12 March 2008.

The South Asia Food Security Programme will receive an estimated US$25 million for ten projects addressing food security.

Climate change will cause major agricultural losses in the Middle East and North Africa, warns the UN.

The Colombian Ministry of Agriculture has opened applications to a US$53 million fund for research and innovation in the farming sector.

The UN Food and Agriculture Organization have begun trials of a bioenergy assessment tool in three developing nations.

Sub-Saharan Africa's agricultural and food systems could be affected by drought caused by climate change, say scientists.

A new report calls for Africa's indigenous fruits to be cultivated to boost nutrition, environmental stability and economic development.