Maize

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://104.225.218.216/handle/123456789/7

Articles in this collection include maize breeding, crop health, good agricultural practices, post harvest handling

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Now showing 1 - 14 of 14

Efficacy of Event MON 87460 in drought-tolerant maize hybrids under optimal and managed drought-stress in eastern and southern africa
(Journal of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, 2024-02-12) Caleb O. Obunyali; Kiru Pillay; Barbara Meisel; Eric N. Ndou; Kingstone Mashingaidze; Julius Pyton Sserumaga; Godfrey Asea; Murenga Mwimali; Regina Tende; Yoseph Beyene; Stephen Mugo; Emmanuel Okogbenin; Sylvester O. Oikeh
Background: Frequent drought events due to climate change have become a major threat to maize (Zea mays L.) production and food security in Africa. Genetic engineering is one of the ways of improving drought tolerance through gene introgression to reduce the impact of drought stress in maize production. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Event MON 87460 (CspB; DroughtGard®) gene in more than 120 conventional drought‐tolerant maize hybrids in Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda for 3–6 years under managed drought‐ stress and optimal conditions and establish any additional yield contribution or yield penalties of the gene in traited hybrids relative to their non‐traited isohybrids. Germplasm used in the study were either MON 87460 traited un‐adapted (2008–2010), adapted traited DroughtTEGO® (2011–2013) or a mix of both under confined field trials. Results: Results showed significant yield differences (p < 0.001) among MON 87460 traited and non‐traited hybrids across well‐watered and managed drought‐stress treatments. The gene had positive and significant effect on yield by 36–62% in three hybrids (CML312/CML445; WMA8101/CML445; and CML312/S0125Z) relative to non‐traited hybrids under drought, and without significant yield penalty under optimum‐ moisture conditions in Lutzville, South Africa. Five traited hybrids (WMA2003/WMB4401; CML442/ WMB4401; CML489/WMB4401; CML511/CML445; and CML395/WMB4401) had 7–13% significantly higher yield than the non‐traited isohybrids out of 34 adapted DroughtTEGO® hybrids with same background genet- ics in the three countries for ≥ 3 years. The positive effect of MON 87460 was mostly observed under high drought‐stress relative to low, moderate, or severe stress levels. Conclusion: This study showed that MON 87460 transgenic drought tolerant maize hybrids could effectively tolerate drought and shield farmers against severe yield loss due to drought stress. The study signified that development and adoption of transgenic drought tolerant maize hybrids can cushion against farm yield losses due to drought stress as part of an integrated approach in adaptation to climate change effects.
Combining ability for resistance to Turcicum leaf Blight in maize under highlands of Uganda
(African Journal of Plant Breeding, 2024-03-13) Kutuka John Kiema; Dr. Geoffrey Tusiime; Dr. Frank Kagoda; Prof. Paul Gibson; Dr. Richard Edema
Maize (Zea mays L.) production in the highland areas of Uganda is constrained by high prevalence of Turcicum leaf blight (caused by Exserohilum turcicum) hence the need to breed for resistance to this disease. Gene actions governing TLB has been studied in lowland and mid-altitude maize but no study has been done for the highland agro-ecologies of Uganda. This study was conducted to determine the general (GCA) and specific (SCA) combining ability of selected maize inbred lines and F1 hybrids with resistance to TLB. Eighteen single- cross hybrids and three checks were evaluated following an Alpha Lattice design with two replications in three highland agro-ecologies of Uganda namely: Bulegeni, Rwebitaba and Kalengyere. Results indicated high significant (P≤0.001) differences among test environments for grain yield, plant height, ear height, 50% days to anthesis and 50% days to silking, an indication that environments were distinct. The GCA and SCA effects were significant (P ≤ 0.001) for most traits, indicating the importance of both additive and non-additive gene effects. Genotypes CKMARS10022, CKL14546, AMH704-43, AMH703-35, AMH704-51, AMH10142-29, AMH10142-10, CKMARS10022 x CKDHL120671, CKLTI0028 x AMH704-43, CKLTI0028 x AMH703-35, CKLT10028 x AMH10142- 29, CKLTI0028 x AMH10142-10 and CKL14546 x CKDHL120671 showed negative SCA effects for TLB indicating their resistance for TLB. Genotypes which possessed negative combining ability are recommended for TLB breeding.
EFFECT OF MAIZE INTERCROP PLANT DENSITIES ON YIELD AND β-CAROTENE CONTENTS OF ORANGE-FLESHED SWEETPOTATOES
(African Crop Science Journal, 2016-04-09) A. ASIIMWE; I.M. TABU; B. LEMAGA; S. TUMWEGAMIRE
Despite efforts to demonstrate the value of orange-fleshed sweetpotato (OFSP) (Ipomoea batatas L.) and quality protein maize (Zea mays L.) in combating vitamin A and protein malnutrition, small land holdings by rural poor farmers still limit the crops’ overall production in Africa. As such, intercropping and optimum plant density in cropping systems will help farmers to improve productivity of the crop, and hence, improve household food and nutrition security. This study determined the effect of maize plant population, in a sweetpotato-maize intercrop, on yields and β-carotene content of two popular OFSP cultivars, Ejumula and NASPOT 9 O (Kabode). Each variety was intercropped with maize variety Longe 5, at three plant densities (i.e. 41,666, 55,555 and 88,888 plants ha-1), at Ngetta Zonal Agricultural Research and Development Institute in Uganda. While 55,555 plants of each OFSP cultivar were used for both sole and intercrops, the sole maize plot was 44,444 plants ha-1. Maize and sweetpotato were harvested at 120 and 135 days after planting, respectively. β-carotene content and yield in sweetpotato roots were significantly (P<0.05) reduced by high maize density. Irrespective of maize density, NASPOT 9 O produced more root yields than Ejumula. Land Equivalent Ratios of >1.2 were obtained at maize intercrop densities of 41,666 and 55,555 plants ha-1.
USE OF IPM IN THE CONTROL OF MULTIPLE DISEASES IN MAIZE: STRATEGIES FOR SELECTION OF HOST RESISTANCE
(African Crop Science, 2003-08-03) R. PRATT; S. GORDON; P. LIPPS; G. ASEA; G. BIGIRWA; K. PIXLEY
Maize (Zea mays) production in sub-Saharan Africa is constantly threatened by the potential outbreak of multiple foliar diseases such as maize streak, northern leaf blight, gray leaf spot, and rust. Improvement of host resistance to these diseases can provide an important component of integrated pest management (IPM). In this paper, conventional and molecular marker-assisted breeding approaches are reviewed and strategies for improvement of host resistance are presented. Pyramiding of quantitative resistance factors using molecular breeding techniques will be facilitated through cooperative research efforts and adoption of appropriate experimental designs.
Interaction of Ht and Partial Resistance to Exserohilum turcicum in Maize
(Plant Disease, 1997-03-11) P. E. Lipps; R. C. Pratt; J. J. Hakiza
Components of northern leaf blight resistance in maize due to race-specific resistance controlled by the Ht gene, partial resistance derived from inbred H99, and a combination of the two kinds of resistance, were studied subsequent to inoculation with Exserohilum turcicum race O. Lesion types, number of lesions (lesion number), percent leaf area affected (severity), and area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC) based on lesion number and severity were assessed in field studies conducted at two locations in Uganda and one location in Ohio in 1993. Lesion types observed were consistent for genotypes across locations. In general, significant differences among genotypes for data based on lesion number and severity were consistent for AUDPC based on lesion number and severity, respectively, at all locations. In Ohio, both Ht and partial resistance were effective in limiting disease development. In Uganda, susceptible inbreds (A619, A635, and B73) generally had higher severity than genotypes with partial resistance (H99, Mo17, and Babungo 3). However, there was a difference in response among genotypes depending on disease intensity at each location. Ht resistance and moderate partial resistance did not greatly affect lesion number at the higher disease intensity location, compared with the susceptible inbreds, but at the lower disease intensity location genotypes with partial resistance had fewer lesions than susceptible inbreds or the Ht conversions of the susceptible inbreds. At both plot locations, genotypes with partial resistance had lower severity than the susceptible inbreds or Ht conversions of the susceptible inbreds. Hybrids derived from crossing H99 with genotypes with moderate levels of partial resistance (Mo17 and Babungo 3) did not have significantly lower lesion numbers than hybrids of susceptible inbreds crossed with H99, but se- verity was significantly lower on these hybrids at the high disease intensity location. Results indicate that the level of partial resistance in H99 would be as effective in controlling northern leaf blight as using Ht resistance, or a combination of Ht resistance and moderate levels of partial resistance as found in Mo17.
Combined Effects of Indigenous Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) and NPK Fertilizer on Growth and Yields of Maize and Soil Nutrient Availability
(Sustainability, 2023-01-25) Abdoulaye Fofana Fall; Grace Nakabonge; Joseph Ssekandi; Hassna Founoune-Mboup; Arfang Badji; Abibatou Ndiaye; Malick Ndiaye; Paul Kyakuwa; Otim Godfrey Anyoni; Clovis Kabaseke; Amos Kipkemoi Ronoh; Joseph Ekwangu
The excessive application of mineral fertilizers in maize cultivation leads to progressive soil contamination in the long term and increases the cost of production. An alternative to reduce over- fertilization is to perform a partial replacement with microbes that promote nutrition and growth, such as Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF). A pot experiment which was followed by two field experiments was performed with and without the application of indigenous AMF in combination with five nitrogen–phosphorus–potassium (NPK) fertilization rates (100% NPK = N120P60K60; 75% NPK = N90P45K45; 50% NPK = N60P30K30; 25% NPK = N30P15K15; control = N0P0K0). The objective was to investigate whether the soil application of indigenous mycorrhizal fungi inoculum combined with NPK fertilization can provide higher maize yields and soil-available N, P, and K than chemical fertilization can alone. The greenhouse results showed that the application of AMF with a 50% NPK treatment significantly increased the plant’s growth, root colonization, leaf chlorophyll content, and N, P, and K tissue content. The results from the field conditions showed that there was a highly significant yield after the treatment with AMF + 50% NPK. The study also revealed that mycorrhizal fungi inoculation increased the available soil N and P concentrations when it was combined with a 50% NPK dose. This suggests that the inoculation of fields with AM fungi can reduce the chemical fertilizer application by half, while improving soil chemistry. The results suggested that AMF inoculation can be used in integrated soil fertility management strategies.
Profitability and Farmer Acceptability of Selected Climate Smart Technologies and Practices for Maize-Beans Production in Drought-Prone Areas, Uganda
(Agricultural Sciences, 2022-11-29) Onesimus Semalulu; Patrick Kibaya; Stewart Kyebogola; Edson Mworozi; Nelson Sewankambo; Berhane Gebru
Climate change is increasingly affecting farm-level decisions on when to plant and which climate smart agriculture (CSA) options to use. This study was conducted to determine the profitability and farmer acceptability of different CSA options for maize-bean production in drought-prone areas of Uganda. It was conducted on-farm in Rakai and Nakasongola districts during 2020 and 2021. Variables included: planting date (early vs late); varieties (common beans: NABE 4 and NAROBEAN 2, and maize: Longe 5 and Bazooka); intercrop- ping versus pure stand; and fertiliser use (manure, Diammonium phosphate (DAP) or combination). The experimental design was split-split plot, replicated six times. Over two years, early planting caused 16% and up to 46% high- er yields of maize and beans, respectively, than late planting, resulting in 14% - 28% and 18% - 43% higher Benefit/Cost (B/C) ratio for maize and beans, respectively. Intercropping reduced maize and beans yield by 16% - 25% and 52% - 57%, respectively. The B/C was highest for sole maize; intercropping was more profitable than sole beans. Fertilizer (DAP) was most profitable when Bazooka was early-planted as sole crop followed by intercrop. For late planted-crop, manure was better. These practices were more beneficial when applied simultaneously for both crops excluding bean variety. Farmers’ lessons stressed the importance of early planting and fertilizer use; however, majority indicated they were to adopt more than two of the practices tested.
Genetic analyses and detection of point mutations in the acetylcholinesterase‐1 gene associated with organophosphate insecticide resistance in fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) populations from Uganda
(BMC Genomics, 2023-01-16)
Background The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda; J.E. Smith (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is now an economically important pest that causes huge losses to maize productivity in sub-Saharan Africa. Variations in sub- population genetics and the processes of rapid adaptation underpinning the invasion remain unclear. For this, the genetic identity and diversity of FAW populations in Uganda were revealed by sequencing 87 samples (collected across the country). Based on the partial mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI) gene polymorphisms, we further examined the mitochondrial haplotype configuration and compared the FAW in Uganda with sequences from other parts of the world. The molecular target for organophosphate and carbamate resistance, acetylcholinesterase, was also investigated. Results Analysis of the partial COI gene sequences showed the presence of both rice (predominant) and corn strain haplotypes, with a haplotype diversity of 0.382. Based on the COI marker, pairwise difference distribution analyses, and neutrality tests, showed that the FAW populations in Uganda and the rest of Africa are evolving neutrally, but those in America and Asia are undergoing expansion. Our ndings support observations that invasive FAW populations throughout the rest of Africa and Asia share a common origin. Sequencing of the S. frugiperda ace-1 gene revealed four amino acid substitutions, two of which (A201S and F290V) were previously shown to confer organophosphate resistance in both S. frugiperda and several other insect species. The other two previously reported new variations in positions g-396 and g-768, are presumed to be related to the development of insecticide resistance. Conclusions This research has increased our knowledge of the genetics of FAW in Uganda, which is critical for pest surveillance and the detection of resistance. However, due to the low gene polymorphism of COI, more evolutionary studies incorporating the Spodoptera frugiperda whole-genome sequence are required to precisely understand the FAW population dynamics, introduction paths, origin, and subsequent spread.
Performance of Bt maize event MON810 in controlling maize stem borers Chilo partellus and Busseola fusca in Uganda
(Crop Protection, 2022-06-05) Michael H. Otim; Simon Alibu; Godfrey Asea; Grace Abalo; Julius Pyton Sserumaga; Stella Adumo; Jane Alupo; Stephen Ochen; Tadele Tefera; Anani Y. Bruce; Yoseph Beyene; Barbara Meisel; Regina Tende; Francis Nang’ayo; Yona Baguma; Stephen Mugo; Sylvester O. Oikeh
Stem borers are major insect pests of maize in Uganda. A study was conducted in 2014–2016 to assess the performance of Bt hybrids expressing Cry1Ab (event MON810) against the two major stem borer species in Uganda – the African stem borer (Busseola fusca) and the spotted stem borer (Chilo partellus) – under artificial infestation. The study comprised 14 non-commercialized hybrids, including seven pairs of Bt and non-Bt hybrids (isolines), three non-Bt commercial hybrids and a conventional stem borer resistant check. All stem borer damage parameters (leaf damage, number of internodes tunneled and tunnel length) were generally significantly lower in Bt hybrids than in their isolines, the conventionally resistant hybrid, and local commercial hybrids. Mean yields were significantly higher by 29.4–80.5% in the Bt hybrids than in the other three categories of non-Bt hybrids. This study demonstrated that Bt maize expressing Cry1Ab protects against leaf damage and can limit entry of stem borers into the stems of maize plants, resulting in higher yield than in the non-transgenic hybrids. Thus, Bt maize has potential to contribute to the overall management package of stem borers in Uganda.
Farmer perception of impacts of fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda J.E. Smith) and transferability of its management practices in Uganda
(CABI Agriculture and Bioscience, 2023-04-18) Andrew Kalyebi; Michael H. Otim; Tom Walsh; Wee Tek Tay
Background The Fall armyworm (FAW) Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is now established across the African continent and is a highly polyphagous and destructive pest of many crops. In Uganda, FAW has become the major maize pest, causing heavy damage especially on shoots and growing points. The objectives of this study were to: (i) document local farming practices that have been useful to manage FAW, (ii) establish farmers’ perspective on the time of FAW’s arrival to their localities, (iii) investigate the economic impact (yield) of FAW to maize farmers, (iv) establish the farmers’ perception on the current status of the FAW, and (v) document alternative practices used to manage the FAW and the perceived efficacies. Methods A questionnaire survey was undertaken in November 2020 in Kamuli and Namutumba districts of Uganda and 99 farmers were interviewed to understand their profiles and perceptions about the FAW. A descriptive analysis of this data was undertaken to establish the socio-economic profiles and perceptions of the farmers. Results Farmers’ education levels in the two districts ranged from basic (completed primary education) to advanced (completed University degree), with most farmers having 10–30 years experience in growing maize (F = 20.8; df = 3,7; P = 0.0067), and with mainly small- and mid-sized production scales (F = 436.2; df = 2,5; P = 0.0002). Famers in Kamuli (98%) and Namutumba (96%) reported 25–50% yield losses due to FAW infestation that negatively impacted their income. We found a significantly higher percentage of farmers (84% and 92% in Kamuli and Namutumba districts, respectively), could correctly identify the FAW by its appearance (P < 0.0001). While FAW was officially reported in Uganda in 2016, farmers confirmed noticing damage symptoms similar to those caused by FAW as early as 2013 and 2014 in Namutumba and Kamuli districts, respectively. 98% of the farmers in Kamuli and 96% of those in Namutumba strongly agreed that FAW infestation reduced their income, while 74% in Kamuli and 86% in Namutumba also strongly considered the FAW as a threat to maize production (P < 0.0001). The majority of farmers (64% in Kamuli, 82% in Namutumba) still considered the FAW to be a very serious challenge to maize production in their localities, six years since officially being reported in Uganda. To manage the FAW, 84% and 90% of Kamuli and Namutumba respondents respectively, predominantly use chemical control methods. Other methods used also included cultural control practices (i.e., by regular weeding and handpicking), while the use of biological extracts (pepper, tobacco, Aloe-vera, Lantana, sisal) was evident though not common. Pheromones and biological control methods to manage FAW were not reported, although a farmer in Kamuli district reportedly observed weaver birds (Ploceus spp.) predating on the FAW in maize. A small number of farmers (ca. 4%) in both districts reportedly took no intentional action against FAW. Conclusions The farmers believe they can manage FAW if they have the appropriate and efficacious chemical insecticides as they are able to correctly apply them and follow recommended procedures. The farmers advocated for an area-wide approach as one of the best alternatives to manage this invasive pest.
Genetic trends for yield and key agronomic traits in pre- commercial and commercial maize varieties between 2008 and 2020 in Uganda
(Frontiers, 2023-03-10) Godfrey Asea; Daniel Bomet Kwemoi; Clay Sneller; Charles L. Kasozi; Biswanath Das; Lennin Musundire; Dan Makumbi; Yoseph Beyene; Boddupalli M. Prasanna
Estimating genetic gains is vital to optimize breeding programs for increased efficiency. Genetic gains should translate into productivity gains if returns to investments in breeding and impact are to be realized. The objective of this study was to estimate genetic gain for grain yield and key agronomic traits in pre- commercial and commercial maize varieties from public and private breeding programs tested in (i) national performance trials (NPT), (ii) era trial and, (iii) compare the trends with the national average. The study used (i) historical NPT data on 419 improved maize varieties evaluated in 23 trials at 6-8 locations each between 2008 and 2020, and (ii) data from an era trial of 54 maize hybrids released between 1999 and 2020. The NPT data was first analyzed using a mixed model and resulting estimate for each entry was regressed onto its first year of testing. Analysis was done over all entries, only entries from National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO), International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT), or private seed companies. Estimated genetic gain was 2.25% or 81 kg ha-1 year-1 from the NPT analysis. A comparison of genetic trends by source indicated that CIMMYT entries had a gain of 1.98% year-1 or 106 kg ha-1 year-1. In contrast, NARO and private sector maize entries recorded genetic gains of 1.30% year-1 (59 kg ha-1 year-1) and 1.71% year-1 (79 kg ha-1 year-1), respectively. Varieties from NARO and private sector showed comparable mean yields of 4.56 t ha-1 and 4.62 t ha-1, respectively, while hybrids from CIMMYT had a mean of 5.37 t ha-1. Era analysis indicated significant genetic gain of 1.69% year-1 or 55 kg ha-1 year-1, while a significant national productivity gain of 1.48% year-1 (37 kg ha-1 year-1) was obtained. The study, thus, demonstrated the importance of public-private partnerships in development and delivery of new genetics to farmers in Uganda.
ASSESSMENT OF Striga hermonthica INFESTATION AND EFFECTIVENESS OF CURRENT MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES IN MAIZE-BASED CROPPING SYSTEMS IN EASTERN UGANDA
(African Crop Science Society, 2022-11-08) J. BISIKWA; P. NAMPALA; D.L. NSIBO; N. KWIKIRIZA; C. BUKENYA; M.H. OTIM; I. KAPTING; F.M. KABUYE; J. FELIX
Striga is a major constraint to cereal production in the tropics, particularly on soils of low fertility. Striga causes 30 to 80% cereal crop losses in sub-Saharan Africa. The objective of this study was to assess farmers’ perception of level of infestation and efficacy of current management options of Striga (Striga hermonthica (Delile) Benth) in maize-based cropping systems in eastern Uganda. A survey was conducted in Iganga district in eastern Uganda, involving 360 households. On the basis of the survey outputs, on-farm trials were conducted to assess the efficacy of a herbicide seed-coating technology, imazapyr herbicide resistant maize (IR-maize) variety, either as a sole crop or intercropped with soybean (Glycine max) or common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L). The study revealed that S. hermonthica caused more than 50% maize (Zea mays) yield loss and farmers were dissatisfied with the existing control practices. Farmers’ knowledge about Striga was mainly sourced from agricultural extension service providers. The on-farm trials revealed that IR-maize provided effective protection against S. hermonthica infestation. Also, intercropping Longe 6H maize variety with either soybean or common beans significantly reduced Striga infestation in farmers’ fields. Longe 6H-soybean intercropping reduced Striga infestation by 32%; while Longe 6H-common bean intercropping reduced Striga infestation by 14%. Intercropping either IR-maize or Longe 6H hybrid (farmer-preferred) with the aforementioned legumes, reduced S. hermonthica infestation (30–50%) and improved maize yield parameters (20-30%). For effective management of S. hermonthica in the maize-based cropping systems in eastern Uganda, farmers should be encouraged to adopt the improved IR-maize and intercrop farmer-preferred maize varieties with legumes in order to improve maize yields.
Genetic trends in CIMMYT’s tropical maize breeding pipelines
(Nature Journal, 2022-11-22) Boddupalli M. Prasanna; Juan Burgueño; Yoseph Beyene; Dan Makumbi; Godfrey Asea; Vincent Woyengo; Amsal Tarekegne; Cosmos Magorokosho; Dagne Wegary; Thokozile Ndhlela; Mainassara Zaman‐Allah; Prince M. Matova; Kabamba Mwansa; Kingstone Mashingaidze; Pedro Fato; Adefris Teklewold; B. S. Vivek; P. H. Zaidi; M. T. Vinayan; Nagesh Patne; Sujay Rakshit; Ramesh Kumar; S. L. Jat; S. B. Singh; Prakash H. Kuchanur; H. C. Lohithaswa; N. K. Singh; K. B. Koirala; Salahuddin Ahmed; Felix San Vicente; Thanda Dhliwayo; Jill E. Cairns
Fostering a culture of continuous improvement through regular monitoring of genetic trends in breeding pipelines is essential to improve efficiency and increase accountability. This is the first global study to estimate genetic trends across the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) tropical maize breeding pipelines in eastern and southern Africa (ESA), South Asia, and Latin America over the past decade. Data from a total of 4152 advanced breeding trials and 34,813 entries, conducted at 1331 locations in 28 countries globally, were used for this study. Genetic trends for grain yield reached up to 138 kg ha−1 yr−1 in ESA, 118 kg ha−1 yr−1 South Asia and 143 kg ha−1 yr−1 in Latin America. Genetic trend was, in part, related to the extent of deployment of new breeding tools in each pipeline, strength of an extensive phenotyping network, and funding stability. Over the past decade, CIMMYT’s breeding pipelines have significantly evolved, incorporating new tools/technologies to increase selection accuracy and intensity, while reducing cycle time. The first pipeline, Eastern Africa Product Profile 1a (EA-PP1a), to implement marker-assisted forward-breeding for resistance to key diseases, coupled with rapid-cycle genomic selection for drought, recorded a genetic trend of 2.46% per year highlighting the potential for deploying new tools/technologies to increase genetic gain.
Impact of Improved Maize and Bean Varieties on Household Income and Food Security in Uganda
(National Agricultural Research Organisation, 2024-05-17) Isaac Kiyingi; Damalie Akwango-Aliau; George Lukwago; Richard M. Ariong; Isaac Obongo; Stella Adur; Stephen Angudubo; Juma Ndhokero; Harris Luzinda; Damalie Magala; Sarah Mutonyi; Fred Kalanzi; Bua Anton; Godfrey Bwanika
The National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) and development partners have invested substantial resources in breeding maize and bean varieties over the years. However, the impact of the varieties on productivity, household income and food security is not well documented. This paper evaluated the ex-post impact of adopting NARO released bean and maize varieties over the last five years on the productivity, household income and food security in Uganda. Data were collected from 30 districts in Uganda through a cross-sectional household survey of 1445 households, focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Using propensity score matching and endogenous switching regression models, the results showed that adoption of improved bean and maize varieties significantly increased crop productivity, household income and food security. This evidence suggests that there were tangible benefits from funding the development of bean and maize varieties in Uganda. The results indicate that although adoption of the improved bean and maize varieties increased productivity, it was still far below the research production output. This suggests that in addition to developing and disseminating the appropriate varieties, emphasis should be put on training farmers to use the complimentary inputs and practices to get the full benefit of the improved varieties.

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