Mexico's Innovation Model Boosts Agriculture in Colombia

Colombia is adopting a proven agricultural innovation model developed in Mexico to enhance the sustainability and resilience of its agri-food systems. The initiative, Colombia Agroalimentaria Sostenible (Sustainable Agri-Food Colombia), led by the Alliance of International Biodiversity and Colombia’s International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) as well as Colombia's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, will integrate the innovation hub methodology to strengthen agricultural value chains and support climate adaptation efforts.  

The International Corn and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT), a key partner in the initiative, brings extensive expertise from its work in Mexico. The hub methodology, initially developed and implemented there, connects producers, researchers, and buyers to improve productivity and sustainability. The model has already been successfully replicated in Guatemala, Honduras, and parts of Africa and is now being tailored to Colombia’s diverse agricultural systems. 

As part of the project, Colombian researchers and technicians joined CIMMYT representatives for field visits to corn producing regions, including Valle del Cauca, Tolima, and Cordoba. These visits showcased the hub model’s success in Mexico and its adaptation to Latin America under the AgriLAC Resiliente initiative. They also provided opportunities to engage directly with Colombian farmers, identifying local barriers and opportunities to refine the methodology.  

CIMMYT’s contributions extend beyond methodology. The organization is sharing its e-Agrology platform, evaluating improved corn varieties, and implementing sustainable practices to address Colombia's climate risks. With approximately 44,000 corn farmers in high-risk zones, such innovations are critical, underscores the organization.