ILEIA is an independent organisation with the mandate to contribute to poverty alleviation through the promotion of agro-ecological approaches. Documentation, analysis and publication of successful experiences in low external input and sustainable agriculture are the major activities. The target groups of ILEIA are: field-level development workers working directly with farmers, academics and researchers in universities, national, (sub-) regional and international research and information centres on rural and agricultural development, policy makers of national governmental organisations, of private, voluntary organisations and NGOs and of bilateral and multilateral donor organisations.

LEISA Magazine is the periodical on development of Low External Input and Sustainable Agriculture (LEISA), indigenous knowledge and participatory technology development for the South with a global outreach. From the very beginning its perspective was rooted in respect for small farmers and their knowledge and it is this point of departure that has consistently influenced the choice of articles and themes. By documenting the diverse experiences of small farmers, with special reference to those in marginal areas, ILEIA has highlighted their role in the creation of agricultural knowledge, and the importance of this knowledge for ecological sustainability and food security.