The genetic diversity of millets offers opportunities for economic development through income-generating activities in the agrifood systems, for diverse and nutritious foods with a range of flavours, and for niche markets for therapeutics, pharmaceuticals, and specialty chemistry.
Millets can grow on arid lands with minimal inputs and are resilient to changes in climate and can thus increase countries’ self-sufficiency and reduce reliance on imported cereal grains. This acquired even more relevance in an increasingly fragile global agrifood system, exacerbated by the recent COVID-19 pandemic and the impacts of conflicts, and climate change.
FAO aims at raising awareness and direct policy attention to the nutritional and health benefits of millets, promoting their sustainable production while also highlighting the benefits of creating market opportunities for producers and consumers.Â
Credit:FAO
