FAO’s OCOP Initiative Gains Momentum: 85 Countries Engage In Sustainable Agriculture

News in Brief:**- FAO's OCOP initiative sees participation from 85 countries, targeting 54 Special Agricultural Products for sustainable development.- With $18 million mobilised, the initiative aims to enhance visibility, resource mobilisation, and synergies with existing FAO initiatives for a resilient agricultural future. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is witnessing significant strides in its One Country One Priority Product (OCOP) initiative, aimed at promoting sustainable development in agriculture. With 85 member countries from diverse regions expressing keen interest, the initiative targets 54 Special Agricultural Products (SAPs), including horticultural, field crops, livestock, and forest products. FAO Director-General QU Dongyu spoke on the uniqueness of OCOP, tailored to each country's specific needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. This personalised strategy ensures effective implementation and sustainable development in local agricultural practices.

Diverse perspectives and collaborative efforts

The recent Steering Committee meeting saw participation from key stakeholders, including government officials, technical experts, and private sector representatives. Their diverse perspectives, ranging from academia to field expertise, enrich the discourse on OCOP implementation. Since its launch in 2021, OCOP has made significant strides. Five demonstration countries, including Bangladesh and Egypt, have showcased remarkable progress in promoting SAPs like jackfruit and date palm. The initiative has mobilised approximately $18 million to support projects in 60 countries, underscoring its global impact. Looking ahead, FAO aims to bolster OCOP's visibility and impact through effective communication and resource mobilisation. Strengthening synergies with existing flagship initiatives like Hand-in-Hand and Green Cities is also prioritised, ensuring comprehensive support for sustainable agriculture. The OCOP initiative holds immense significance for local farmers, providing them with the tools and resources to tap into the potential of underutilised agricultural products. By fostering sustainable production and marketing, OCOP contributes to improved livelihoods and access to nutritious diets for small-scale farmers.