1 April 2014, Tigray, Ethiopia ? Cactus pear is widely spread in Tigray and has a great potential for processing and commercialization. FAO partners with Italian gourmet food store Eataly in support of smallholders in Tigray, Ethiopia. The activities are part of a global project to support family farmers around the globe to boost production and reach new markets overseas. FAO project: GCP/ETH/073/ITA - Strengthening of fruit and cactus pear production in Tigray and North Wollo. Objectives: To promote food security and poverty reduction of populations living in drought-prone areas by diversifying cropping patterns, promoting drought-resistant crops and alternative income-generating products though the improvement and production of quality fruits for local markets and exports in the future and enhance crop management of cactus pear at the community level.