Who we are

The Genetic Resources Unit (GRU) at ICRAF provides global support to ICRAF regional staff and partners for tree germplasm and tree information needs. It holds separately and/or in conjunction with national programmes collected and procured germplasm in both live and seed gene banks around the world. At headquarters a centralized facility for storage, testing, characterization (including molecular) and dispatch for orthodox species exists.

In Kenya it also maintains a nursery and field facility at Meru for quarantine, testing and dispatch of introductions to all regions in Africa. Databases which compile information on tree taxonomy, uses, suitability and sources of seed are developed and maintained by the unit. Collectively these are part of the genetic resource activities of ICRAF.