Project MGU - the Useful Plants Project
The African baobab (Adansonia digitata), widely used by local communities in Africa as a source of water, food and medicine. (Photo T. Ulian 2007)
Project MGU* - the Useful Plants
Project (UPP) is managed
by Kew’s
Seed Conservation Department
(SCD) through MSBP partnerships
in Botswana, Kenya, Mali,
Mexico and South Africa.
The purpose of the Project is to enhance ex situ conservation of useful plants for human wellbeing by raising the capacity of local communities to successfully store and propagate useful plant species.
The main outputs of the Project include identification of target species; seed collecting and conservation; plant propagation and support to in situ conservation.
Target species are identified through research and by engaging local communities. The seeds are collected and conserved in country with duplicates stored in the Millennium Seed Bank.
The capacity of local communities is enhanced through training and the improvement of local facilities. Research is carried out to support the conservation and sustainable use of the most important useful plants.
Interview with a traditional healer during a workshop in Tharaka, Kenya, in November 2007 (Photo T. Ulian 2007)
The Project started in June 2007 and will last for three and a half years.
*The name MGU reflects the generous
donation of a philanthropist based in Spain who supports the Project.