According to a 2016 study, up to 60% of sub-Saharan African bean-growing regions could not be fit by the end of this century. The Pan-African Bean Research Alliance (PABRA) has supported the research, development, and distribution of over 650 novel bean varieties throughout Africa in an endeavor to future-proof and optimize the potential of this vital commodity. In September, PABRA received the $100,000 African Food Prize in recognition of its efforts to raise farmer incomes and ensure food security.
In addition to using less water, PABRA's beans are more tolerant to more erratic weather patterns.Improved resilience to extended drought and wet spells means more revenue for the 37 million farmers that cultivate them throughout the continent.The majority of the group's research is carried out in Cali, Colombia, and is subsequently shared with national programs in Africa. Based on market demand, specific bean varieties are produced and chosen.It claims that 300 million people routinely eat its beans throughout the continent. People who cannot afford other types of beans, these beans, with their 22–23% protein content, are an excellent source of protein. According to Rubyogo, they offer extremely little lipid (fat molecules), fiber, and carbs. They also contain high levels of iron and zinc, which the World Health Organization reports harm over two billion people globally.