Our Mission: Approximately 40% of the Earth's terrestrial surface comprises drylands, which are home to more than 2 billion people. These arid areas, which include such diverse ecosystems as deserts, savannahs and tropical dry forests, are often characterized by population growth, over-exploitation, drought and desertification leading to a decline in productivity. Scientists at the French Associates Institute for Agriculture and Biotechnology of Drylands are engaged in intensive cutting-edge research to increase arid zone food production, develop biotechnologies where traditional or conventional methods of agriculture are difficult or impossible to implement, and empower sustainable living in arid areas.                                                              Prof. SammyBousibba                                                                                                                                                     Director