About ICRAF
About ICRAF
The International Centre for Research in Agroforestry (ICRAF) is a centre of scientific excellence that harnesses the benefits of trees for people and the environment.
Founded in 1978 and headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, ICRAF conducts globally significant agroforestry research across the developing tropics. Its work generates knowledge, innovations and practical solutions that help governments, development partners, farmers and communities use the power of trees to make farming systems, livelihoods and landscapes more environmentally, socially and economically sustainable.
ICRAF is an independent International Organization and CGIAR Research Center. It is hosted by the Government of Kenya and maintains its own legal identity, host country arrangements, contractual obligations, financial systems and operational responsibilities.
ICRAF and Landscape Alliance
ICRAF works in close strategic alignment with the Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) under the shared operating name Landscape Alliance. Landscape Alliance reflects the joint ambition of CIFOR and ICRAF to transform science into action and unlock the power of trees, forests and agroforestry landscapes for planetary health and human well-being.
While ICRAF and CIFOR operate through a common strategy, shared governance and unified leadership arrangements, they remain distinct legal entities. The use of the Landscape Alliance name does not change ICRAF’s legal status, institutional mandate, host country relationship or operational commitments.
Our contribution
ICRAF brings deep expertise in agroforestry, tree genetic resources, soil health, climate-resilient agriculture, food systems, restoration, water resilience, biodiversity and sustainable livelihoods. Its research supports the design and scaling of tree-based systems that improve food and nutrition security, strengthen soil and water systems, diversify livelihoods, store carbon and enhance resilience to climate and market shocks.
ICRAF works with farmers, communities, governments, research institutions, development partners and the private sector to co-create practical and scalable innovations. Its science supports locally grounded decisions, policy reform, inclusive value chains, capacity strengthening and investment in sustainable land use.
Unlocking the power of trees
Trees on farms and across landscapes are central to resilient food systems, climate adaptation, biodiversity conservation and sustainable livelihoods. ICRAF works to ensure that agroforestry and tree-based solutions are accessible, evidence-based and adapted to local contexts.
As part of Landscape Alliance, ICRAF contributes to a shared 2035 ambition: accelerating the transition to diversified agroforestry and agroecological practices, supporting resilient livelihoods, restoring degraded land, strengthening landscape governance and advancing climate and biodiversity goals. Through science, partnerships and action, ICRAF continues to support thriving landscapes where people prosper and nature flourishes.