The current COVID-19 pandemic is affecting the political, economic, social, environmental and food sectors. This multidimensional threat requires an adequate response to protect the most vulnerable and marginalized groups not only in cities but also in rural areas. In line with the 2030 Agenda, this situation pushes for urgent transition towards sustainable food systems.

Agroecological approaches provide an immediate solution to the current challenges both by protecting the environment and producers and enabling the local production of healthy and sustainable food for all. Agroecology offers local solutions and empowers local economies and markets by keeping farmers in the field with improved livelihoods and a better quality of life.

The ZBNF Programme continues to scale up agroecological practices, currently reaching 580.000 farmers (3.000 villages) with high success. Independent assessments are constantly monitoring agricultural campaigns of ZBNF and non-ZBNF farms (including fall harvest and spring harvest in 2019). Both seasons show improvements in production costs through integrated farming and system stability, resulting in higher net income for ZBNF farmers, along with better soil and crop health, resilience, economic empowerment and dignity of labor.