Rural 21 - The International Journal for Rural Development

For nearly 60 years, #Rural21 has delivered key insights on #Ruraldevelopment across the Global South. Now, we’re shifting focus to bring you even more content online! 📲 Help us make this transition even better by taking our quick survey. Your feedback drives the conversation!! 💬 ✍️English:- https://ow.ly/LkKK50TLyPT 📝French:- https://ow.ly/qrOy50TLyPU Photo: Shutterstock

''Prior to my university studies, I experienced a challenging period of introspection regarding my life's direction. I had a strong desire to contribute to the preservation of nature, yet I was uncertain about how to pursue this path. During a communal ceremony I attended, a fellow participant noticed my tears and kindly offered me a spoonful of honey. In that moment, I contemplated the possibility of discovering my purpose through the study of bees.'' Ysabel Calderón, Founder and CEO of the environmental enterprise Sumak Kawsay. #Ruraldevelopment #Beekeeping #NatureConservation Explore this intriguing narrative⤵️ https://ow.ly/68WM50TWe9b

Maize, a staple crop covering up to 75% of #cropland in parts of the region, is particularly vulnerable and is projected to face yield declines of 15%, among other climate impacts if no adaptation measures are taken. Many of the affected areas already have serious levels of hunger and #malnutrition, with the highest burden experienced by women and #youth from marginalised and vulnerable communities. If these systems are sustainably diversified, they can contribute to stabilising regional and global #agrifoodsystems. 👉https://ow.ly/yhTq50THMQ2 Photo: V. Atakos (CIP-SSA)

Innovating Cocoa Supply Chains! The Open Cocoa Chain project, powered by GIZ & Helvetas, is reshaping the cocoa industry with blockchain technology! This digital solution allows smallholder farmers in Colombia and Peru to prove their cocoa is deforestation-free, meeting strict EU regulations for 2025. By providing transparent, blockchain-backed data, this project helps farmers protect the environment and access global markets. #DeforestationFreeCocoa #SustainableFarming #DigitalInnovation #Ruraldevelopment #Povertyreduction 👉https://ow.ly/7j3550TFzBi

Rural entrepreneurs can contribute to coping with today’s environmental challenges. They are able to promote the circular economy and assist in safeguarding the #environment, thereby adding value to the abundant natural resources of rural areas. This is above all important for those living together with and from nature, such as indigenous communities. Moreover, entrepreneurship is regarded as a vital tool for women’s empowerment. #Ruraldevelopment #Innovations #Empowerment #Foodsecurity Check out our current edition⤵️ 💡https://ow.ly/HHq650TOt1I

A recent study shows that planted mangroves can store up to 75% of the carbon found in intact mangrove forests within 20 to 40 years! These amazing ecosystems capture carbon not only in their trees but also in their deep soil, making them one of the most effective natural carbon sinks. Mixed-species mangrove forests store even more carbon than monocultures, offering a powerful tool in the fight against climate change. #ClimateAction #MangroveRestoration #CarbonSink #NatureBasedSolutions 👉https://ow.ly/gKVU50TFqwL

In Sub-Saharan Africa, post-harvest grain loss amounts to millions of dollars in lost revenue and a reduction in food security due to inadequate storage facilities and improper handling during drying and transport. While Agricultural Marketing Cooperative Society (AMCOS ) in Tanzania works hard to preserve crops and prevent large-scale food loss, the small quantities of spilled rice are an unavoidable consequence of handling large volumes. For Rebecca, however, these spilled grains represent a lifeline. #Foodloss #Foodsecurity #Empowerment #Agriculture #PostHarvestloss 👉https://ow.ly/i6Uh50TB0lB

Fairtrade International has launched a new reference price tool to support living wages for farmers! This innovative tool provides companies with easy access to fair prices that enable sustainable farm practices and help farmers achieve a decent income. With country-specific prices for crops like cocoa, coffee, and more, it's a step forward in promoting equitable livelihoods globally. The tool also offers an interactive map, downloadable reports, and multiple language options for broader reach. #SustainableFarming #Foodsecurity #Fairtrade #RuralDevelopment #InclusiveEconomies 👉https://ow.ly/xo5E50TB1yf

Overfishing and the use of illegal methods like mosquito nets and harmful substances are depleting fish stocks in Zambia’s water bodies. Despite annual fishing bans and government interventions, these practices continue to damage fish populations and the environment. NGOs and agencies urge stricter enforcement, community sensitization, and promotion of sustainable alternatives like aquaculture. Without more action, Zambia risks losing key fish species, threatening local livelihoods. #Sustainability #Aquaculture #RuralDevelopment #Zambia #Conservation #Fisheries #SustainableFishing #EnvironmentalProtection 👉https://ow.ly/LRCF50Tv81F

Researchers at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) have identified genes that produce rice with a low glycemic index and high protein content. This breakthrough can help manage diabetes and provide better nutrition, especially in regions where rice is a staple. These new rice varieties may benefit the 537 million people living with diabetes worldwide and address protein deficiencies in vulnerable populations. #SustainableAgriculture #RiceResearch #NutritionInnovation #FoodSecurity 👉https://ow.ly/Hnon50Tt0Jh