Belén García

A Peruvian agricultural scientist who developed drought-resistant crops to combat famine in the Andes

Belén García (1905–1978) was a visionary botanist and agricultural engineer whose work transformed food security in the Andean region. Born in Arequipa, Peru, she studied plant genetics at the National Agrarian University of La Molina, where she pioneered research on quinoa and potatoes—staples of the Andean diet. Her breakthrough came in the 1940s when she developed a drought-resistant potato variety that thrived in the arid highlands, preventing widespread famine during prolonged dry seasons. This innovation was later adopted across South America, saving countless lives.

García's approach emphasized collaboration with indigenous communities, ensuring traditional farming knowledge was integrated with scientific methods. She co-founded the International Potato Center in 1971, now a global leader in crop research. Despite her achievements, she remained unrecognized internationally until the 21st century, when her work was highlighted in UNESCO's Science for Development initiatives. Her legacy endures through the Belén García Award, given annually to innovators in sustainable agriculture.