The SD=HS program presents a side event during the 16th regular session of the Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture:

Strengthening women’s capacity in biodiversity and nutrition through farmer field schools

Venue and time: Iran room (B-116); 13:15 – 14:45, FAO
Organizer: Oxfam Novib

At this side event, we will present findings from SD=HS studies on the nature and magnitude of seasonal hunger periods in Zimbabwe, Vietnam, and Peru. Farmer Field Schools are used to optimize utilization of biodiversity for household food and nutrition security by building on traditional knowledge. Using participatory tools, the programme assessed the role of biodiversity for farmers and in particular neglected and underutilized species (NUS) to diversify the diet and as a coping mechanism during the hunger period. Identified barriers to the full utilization of these species call for both community-based and (inter)national interventions.

Speakers:
· Ms Sanne Bakker, Policy Advisor Nutrition, Oxfam Novib
· Ms Jessica Raneri, Nutrition Research Specialist, Healthy Diets from Sustainable Food Systems Initiative, Bioversity International
· Ms Carolina Starr, Consultant on Biodiversity and Ecosystems Services, AGPME, FAO
· Ms. Svahild-Isabelle Batta Torheim, Senior Advisor, Department of Forest and Natural Resource Policy, Ministry of Agriculture and Food, Norway

Chair:
· Gigi Manicad, Senior Program Manager, Oxfam Novib

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