Vision for Adapted Crops and Soils

Small-scale farmers are on the frontlines of the climate crisis. Unpredictable weather, prolonged droughts and degraded soils threaten their livelihoods, food security and nutrition. The Vision for Adapted Crops and Soils (VACS) offers evidence-driven solutions to these challenges, paving the way for more sustainable food systems and a better future for rural communities.

VACS promotes nutrient-dense crops that thrive in specific climates, securing a sustainable food supply in the face of climate change. Through partnerships, VACS scales up practices to restore soil health and degraded lands, like agroecology and soil carbon sequestration. This, in turn, increases crop yields and improves access to diverse, nutritious diets. By promoting policies and innovative financing, VACS presents a scalable model for climate-smart agriculture.

IFAD has established the VACS Trust Fund to direct financing towards IFAD investments aligned with VACS priority areas. For instance, projects in Malawi and Côte d’Ivoire, supported by the VACS Trust Fund, focus on sustainable land restoration, the development of resilient seed systems, and market linkages for small-scale producers. These initiatives are delivering tangible outcomes, including improved food security, strengthened climate resilience, healthier soils and enhanced economic stability.