SUDAN IS ENDOWED WITH A RICH GENE pool of forage plant genetic resources that constitutes a valuable heritage for mankind and contributes to the income and subsistence of a large sector of the population, which is either pastoralist (nomads) or agro-pastoralist. As much as 80% of the population lives in rural areas and relies mainly on agriculture for their livelihood. The overall objective of this BSF project is to develop a strategy for the conservation and sustainable use of forage genetic resources in the semi-arid, low rainfall Sudanese savannah in order to help agro-pastoralist communities cope with food shortages produced by climate shocks. The project has, thus far, succeeded in identifying key stakeholders, including the Agricultural Research Corporation, pastoralist unions and meteorological authorities at the federal, state and local levels. Initiatives contributing to capacity building of policy makers, technical staff and local community members have been implemented through capacity building and awareness raising workshops. A number of technical studies and reports have already been done about this on-going BSF project, focusing particularly on the role of the diversity  of natural forage plants in pastoral livelihoods, the role of traditional knowledge  in supporting livelihoods, the characteristics of forage sorghum, and the impact of climate change on FPGRs and food security. This SAP will be incorporated within the national programs to achieve sustainable conservation of forage plant genetic resources and be included as an essential element for longer-term development plans. This project will also provide the basis for the development of plans directed at improving the livelihoods of pastoral communities in the country, while networking will facilitate the exchange of views and experiences, and contribute to the application of SAP principles in areas with similar environmental and social conditions.