The key descriptors for fonio millets consist of an initial minimum set of characterization and evaluation descriptors for Digitaria exilis Stapf and Digitaria iburua Stapf of the family Poaceae. This strategic set aims at facilitating access to and utilization of these species, and it does not exclude the addition of other descriptors later. The list in this booklet, reviewed globally by a group of experts, contains 43 key descriptors.
Fonio is also recognized by various names such as acha (for white fonio), and iburu (for black fonio), among other commonly used names. Among these two species, white fonio is predominantly cultivated. These millets are grown in various West African countries, including Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire, the Gambia, Guinea, Guinea- Bissau, Mali, the Niger, Nigeria and Senegal, .
