International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA)

The International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) is an international organisation that conducts research for development. The organisation provides innovative, science-based solutions for communities across non-tropical dry areas. In partnership with research institutions, NGOs, governments and the private sector, its work is aimed at advancing scientific knowledge, shapes practices, and informs policy.

ICARDA and the CIHEAM have signed their first MoU in September 1999 in Aleppo, Syria. Both organisations invest in the rural sector to foster employability to address regional challenges and help mitigate the major current crisis. They both consider inter-institutional coordination and cooperation of utmost importance in the elaboration and implementation of a strategic programme for the Mediterranean agricultural sector and rural areas. 

In November 2015, ICARDA and the CIHEAM have renewed in Beirut, their strategic partnership in ten major fields including adaptation to climate change, inclusive growth and empowerment of youth, women and smallholders in rural areas. The MoU aims at strengthening dialogue and activities in the development of human resources, research and information systems at a very strategic time for the Mediterranean and West Asian regions, with a rise in security crises, unemployment in rural areas, natural resources scarcity and climate change. 

The CIHEAM-ICARDA collaboration is aimed at building a bio-economic model that will capture the production system in the Meknes area of Morocco identified as an action site for sustainable intensification of production systems for which ICARDA and partners are to conduct research and work with all stakeholders to help intensify the production system to ensure better livelihoods for the households while also ensuring the sustainability of the production system.

CIHEAM Montpellier is the coordinator of this project.