This article was written by Neil Palmer, and originally appeared on CIATnews.org.

Researchers believe they have uncovered a promising opportunity for reaching smallholder farmers in developing countries with vital crops that could help them respond to a host of challenges including climate change and malnutrition.

It could have important implications for the way seed sales and distribution are organised, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.

For decades, scientists have developed new crop varieties aimed at responding to the most persistent environmental and nutritional challenges faced by smallholders. But many of these have not made it to the people who need them most – the farmers themselves.

According to new research published in the journal Food Security today, that’s because the method for disseminating new seeds neglects some of the most important outlets used by smallholders.

Read the full article on their news blog.