IITA’s Professor Rony Swennen honored as visiting professor by the Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences

6 October 2025

Prof Rony Swennen (left) receiving an award from Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences
Prof Rony Swennen (left) receiving an award from Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences

In a prestigious recognition of his expertise in bananas, Professor Rony Swennen, a scientist at IITA-CGIAR, has been appointed visiting professor at the Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences in China. This honorary title was conferred upon Prof. Swennen during a recent visit to China, at the invitation of the Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences (CATAS), where he, along with other IITA–CGIAR scientists Dr Delphine Amah and Dr Ismail Rabbi, explored potential collaborations with Chinese institutions.

The appointment is a significant milestone for IITA-CGIAR, reflecting the institute’s growing reputation as a leader in tropical agricultural research. As a visiting professor, Prof. Swennen will have the opportunity to develop joint research proposals with the Guangxi Academy, particularly in banana improvement. This collaboration has the potential to benefit both IITA-CGIAR and the Guangxi Academy, enabling an exchange of knowledge, resources, and expertise.

Prof. Swennen’s appointment letter as Visiting Professor at Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences
Prof. Swennen’s appointment letter as Visiting Professor at Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences

The partnership is expected to yield mutual benefits. IITA-CGIAR will leverage the Guangxi Academy’s advanced facilities and expertise to test its banana hybrids for resistance to Panama TR4 disease, a significant threat to banana crops currently confined to Mozambique in Africa.

This will help identify resistant varieties and inform breeding decisions. Meanwhile, the Guangxi Academy can utilize IITA-CGIAR’s advanced breeding strategies and germplasm, enhancing breeding programs and developing more resilient banana varieties.

Prof Rony Swennen with certificate, flanked by IITA colleagues and Chinese partners
Prof Rony Swennen with certificate, flanked by IITA colleagues and Chinese partners

This award is a testament to Prof. Swennen’s expertise and IITA-CGIAR’s commitment to international collaboration. As a leading research institute, IITA-CGIAR continues to forge strategic partnerships with institutions worldwide to address pressing agricultural challenges and improve food and nutritional security.

The visiting professorship award is a significant achievement for IITA-CGIAR that can drive positive changes in agriculture and food security. Congratulations, Prof. Swennen, on this well-deserved recognition.

Contributed by Moureen Awori, Prof. Rony Swennen and Katherine Lopez