Launched in February 2023, the Vision for Adapted Crops and Soils (VACS) is a transformative initiative designed to unlock the potential of underutilized “opportunity crops,” strengthen African food systems, and empower the next generation of scientists and farmers. VACS is aligned with the African Union’s Common Position on Food Systems, the AU Green Recovery Action Plan, and the Soil Initiative for Africa. Its goals are to boost productivity of opportunity crops, improve nutrition through climate resilient cropping systems, revitalize soil health, and expand research and training capacity across the
continent.

Session Format:

This side event of the 2025 African Plant Breeders Association Conference will feature Keynote Framing presentations, spotlight talks on flagship initiatives and VACS Fellows, and an interactive high-level panel discussion.

Expected Outcomes:

Increase awareness of VACS activities and their relevance to African food systems, shared understanding of research gaps and collaboration opportunities, actionable recommendations on research, seed systems, and policy priorities, and strengthened networks and partnerships to advance underutilized crops.

Target Audience:

Scientists, breeders, scholars, policymakers, and professionals from CGIAR, NARES, universities, the private sector, and other institutions committed to building resilient agrifood systems across Africa.