Rome - The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has established a new Scientific Advisory Group (SAG) for 2024-25 of its Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) Programme by appointing four new experts. These new members will bring valuable expertise to support the programme's efforts in promoting sustainable agricultural practices and conserving agricultural heritage around the world.

The new SAG consists of five continuing members from the previous SAG and four new members. Following a 'Call for Experts,' which invited applications in an individual capacity from February 14 to March 14, 2024, the program received an impressive 224 applications from Africa, the Near East and North Africa, Asia and the Pacific, and Latin America and the Caribbean. The applications showcased a wide range of expertise from highly qualified professionals, underscoring the global interest in conserving agricultural heritage and promoting sustainable practices.

The GIAHS Programme relies on the SAG, a group of nine experts appointed by the FAO Director-General for two-year terms, to ensure scientific rigor throughout the evaluation process and to guide the evolution of the programme. Representing diverse regions and fields of expertise, these members meet several times a year to evaluate country proposals for new GIAHS sites, conduct field visits, and provide strategic guidance to enhance the programme's impact.

Meet the New Members of the Scientific Advisory Group:

Aïcha Bammoun (Near East and North Africa) is a Freelance Consultant specializing in Conservation of Biodiversity, Science, Technology, Innovation, and the implementation of SDGs. With extensive experience in agricultural research, she has contributed significantly to cereal breeding programs addressing drought stress, salinity, and climate change. Dr. Bammoun has also led initiatives in agro-biodiversity conservation and food security. As a former focal point for IPGRI in Central West Asia and North Africa, she successfully transferred global biodiversity conservation projects to regional and national levels. Her work is characterized by her expertise in coordinating multidisciplinary teams, advancing scientific research, and building the capacities of public institutions and civil society in sustainable development.

Agnes Wakesho Mwangómbe (Africa) is a professor emeritus of Plant Pathology at the University of Nairobi and the Patron of the Seed Enterprise Management Institute (SEMIS). She holds a PhD. in Plant Pathology and has over 30 years of experience in agriculture, focusing on sustainable rural development, crop disease management, and biodiversity conservation. Prof. Mwang’ombe has played a key role in strengthening the private seed sector in Sub-Saharan Africa and has served on numerous international committees and boards. As a consultant for organizations like FAO and the World Bank, she has contributed to sustainable development and has been actively involved in advancing women agribusiness entrepreneurs.

Ali Kiani Rad (Asia and the Pacific) is an Associate Professor of Agricultural Economics and the Head of the Agricultural Planning, Economic and Rural Development Research Institute (APERDRI). His expertise spans agricultural and food value chains, sustainable agriculture, and rural and food tourism. He holds a Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics with a focus on Agricultural Production, Economics and Management. With over 10 years of experience in the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS). He played a crucial role in the designation of all six GIAHS sites in Iran. His research supports policymakers by providing innovative methods to enhance income diversity and improve

Tania Eulalia Martinez-Cruz (Latin America and the Caribbean) is an Ëyuujk Indigenous interdisciplinary researcher from Mexico with over 15 years of experience in climate action, the water-food-energy nexus, gender, and Indigenous Peoples’ issues. Her extensive background brings the perspective of Indigenous peoples and strengthens the aspect of traditional knowledge in the SAG. She is actively involved in and supports the Coalition on Indigenous Peoples Food Systems, which emerged after UNFSS21, and whose secretariat is held at WFP. Tania holds a Ph.D. in Social Sciences from Wageningen University and combines both international experience and experience at community level.

About GIAHS

The FAO's Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) Programme recognizes and supports unique agricultural systems that combine cultural heritage, biodiversity, and sustainable practices. With 86 designated sites across 26 countries, the programme helps communities worldwide maintain these systems, ensuring food and livelihood security for future generations.