Preface

The More and Better Food Project began in 1977 as collaborative effort between Egypt, represented by the National Research Centre (NRC), and the United States, represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The ultimate goal of the project was to demonstrate the impact of science and technology on food, agriculture, and nutrition.

This report documents the integrated effort of more than 400 scientists from the NRC and other institutes concerned with problems of food and nutrition. It is a case study of a research institute (NRC) that has adapted its system and mobilized its manpower to address a major development problem. The report does not concentrate on technical details (such information is included in separate documents); instead, it focuses on aspects of planning, priority selection, management, and program impacts, as well as lessons learned. Background information on the status of food, agriculture, and nutrition in Egypt and the research and development resources in these sectors is also presented.

The authors wish to thank all the scientists who helped the MBF Project achieve its objectives. Special thanks are due to Dr. M. Kamel, the president of the ASRT; Dr. M.B.E. Fayaz, the director of the NRC; and Dr. M. AbdelAkher, the chairman of the steering committee. It is also appropriate to thank the members of the steering committee for their efforts in managing the project for more than eight years.

The authors are grateful to the organizations that made this study possible. The USAID provided financial support, and the U.S. National Research Council assisted in technical aspects including training, consultancy, documentation, and information, as well as staff support. Special appreciation is extended to the many American scientists who served as advisors or consultants. It is impossible to note here the number of U.S. universities, research institutes, and other scientific laboratories that collaborated with the Egyptian team at the NRC, but their assistance is most gratefully acknowledged. The editorial assistance of Miss Nina Graybill, Mrs. Maryalice Risdon, Ms. Patti Lowery, and Miss Irene Martinez, and the major contribution of Miss F. R. Ruskin, who coordinated and prepared the manuscript for publication, is acknowledged with thanks.