Improving crops Archives | Page 6 of 23

Dr Ahmed Warsame working with cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) at the Crop Science Centre, Cambridge. Filming and images by WebsEdge Science

A new film showcases how the Crop Science Centre (CSC)’s collaboration with partners in the global south is pioneering sustainable solutions in agriculture to feed the world and improve lives.

The film will be premiered at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) taking place in Belém, Brazil in November 2025.

It shows how CSC’s partnerships with breeders and farmers are translating cutting-edge science into real-world impact, with a focus on developing sustainable alternatives to the high-input agriculture on which we currently rely.

The film launch follows the recent CSC International Partnerships event which brought together breeders, scientists, and funders from Africa, Asia, Europe, and the United States. The event celebrated the power of collaboration and reinforced CSC’s commitment to co-creating research agendas that translate discovery science into real impact in farmers’ fields.

“Making global food production more equitable, sustainable and resilient is core to everything we do at the Crop Science Centre,” said Professor Uta Paszkowski, CSC’s Acting Director and Head of the Cereal symbiosis group.

“This film shows how we are harnessing research innovation to strengthen global food security and make sure the benefits of cutting-edge crop science can reach all farmers,” she said.

“Initiatives like the Crop Science Centre are really core to our sustainability goals at Cambridge and our need to connect with international priorities such as at COP30,” said Professor Bhaskar Vira, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Sustainability at the University of Cambridge, who features in the film.

The film has been produced in collaboration with global research consortium CGIAR [https://www.cgiar.org/], as part of their ‘With Science We Can’ campaign – a documentary series exploring how we can achieve a food-secure future through scientific innovation.

Sustainable agriculture using nature’s solutions
Researchers at CSC are working with breeders, scientists and farmers around the world to bring nature’s solutions back into agriculture.

“We believe the solutions nature invented hold the key to sustainable agriculture,” said Professor Paszkowski.

“By studying how plants partner with soil microbes, for example, we can design crops that nourish themselves and reduce dependence on chemical inputs.”

As the world’s population grows and climate pressures intensify, global agriculture faces the urgent challenge of producing more food with fewer resources.

At the same time, ecological and climate change problems like greenhouse gas emissions, water scarcity, environmental pollution are having a significant effect on food production.

“The climate change problem in turn feeds into the food production issue, so it’s basically a vicious circle.”

“This vicious circle especially affects smallholder farmers who have less capacity to adapt to the changing climate and are disproportionately affected.”

“Agriculture today needs to be even more sustainable than ever. It is down to us to come in with innovations to make sustainable agriculture viable and affordable for everybody in need,” she said.

A venture with partnerships at the heart
The film highlights the importance of partnerships with local farmers and breeders to develop a sustainable agriculture and secure tomorrow’s global food production.

“Science has to start with farmers and end with the farmer,” said Dr Pearl Abu, Team Lead for the Maize Breeding Programme at the University of Ghana’s West Africa Centre for Crop Improvement (WACCI), one of CSC’s collaborators to appear in the film.

“We need to develop research in partnership with farmers and engage with them before the research starts.”

Dr Abu is working with CSC’s Cereal symbiosis group who are researching fungal symbiosis with a focus on sustainable agriculture for cereal crops to improve maize and rice growth.

“The partnership between the Crop Science Centre and WACCI is a powerful way of making sure that discovery science reaches farmers who are the ones that need it,” she said.

“Local partnerships are essential for translating our research at the Crop Science Centre into the farmers’ fields. We need those local partners who are on the ground with the farmers to think about how the science is going to be relevant in the field,” said Dr Emily Servanté, Postdoctoral Research Associate at CSC.

Turning ideas into impact
Dr Ousmane Boukar reiterates this message. He is a researcher and breeder at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Nigeria, which is a CGIAR partnership member working to address food insecurity, malnutrition and poverty in sub-Saharan Africa.

Dr Boukar is working to develop cowpea varieties that can thrive in heat and tolerate the drought conditions which are increasingly challenging farmers in Northern Nigeria and the West African Sahel. Cowpeas are a vital food source and income generator for millions of people in the region.

“Our partnership with the Crop Science Centre is a powerful example of how global science can meet local needs,” he said.

“Farmers know their soil, their seasons and their community better than anyone else. We are not just transferring technology. We are building resilience. The real impact goes beyond the field. It is about building confidence, trust and scientific capacity in African agricultural systems.”

“Ultimately, we want to create a world where farming is profitable, dignified and resilient and where science truly serves the people who feed us all.”

Watch the Crop Science Centre COP30 video:
[https://youtu.be/YNWbNrqozO8?si=YdzJ2LmPTSaFNPlz]

View CGIAR’s full series of COP30 documentaries: [https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGVe6BxyFHNWv6Yd5wKmfuA_1osg8VzK3&si=HLPxVnXGgVc1NR2E]

About the Crop Science Centre
The Crop Science Centre is a coalition between the University of Cambridge and Niab, that combines their diverse expertise to create an environment for research excellence, with the capability to apply discoveries to crop improvement in the field.

Farmers and IITA trainers after a successful Farmer Field School training session

Across Cameroon, agriculture remains the backbone of rural livelihoods. Yet, most smallholder farmers continue to rely on rudimentary farming tools and traditional methods, often using non-certified planting materials that limit yields and worsen challenges such as food insecurity and malnutrition.

Recognizing this gap, the IITA–CGIAR, in collaboration with the Ministry of Scientific Research and Innovation (MINRESI), has introduced Farmer Field Days — a hands-on learning platform designed to transform smallholder agriculture through knowledge sharing and innovation.

IITA organized a Farmer Field Day in Bandjoun, an event that brought together farmers, researchers, and policymakers to promote sustainable and productive farming techniques. Locally known as Journées Scientifiques and Champs-Écoles Paysans (CEP), the event took place at the Tchala and Touegoue sites, attracting over 10,000 farmers eager to learn about improved agricultural practices.

A multidisciplinary team of experts from IITA, the Institute of Agricultural Research for Development (IRAD), and the International Potato Center (CIP) facilitated interactive, field-based sessions focusing on key crops including plantain, maize, and beans. Farmers had the opportunity to gain practical knowledge on soil preparation, pest management, and crop husbandry techniques that could directly enhance their productivity and income.

The field demonstrations extended to cassava and potato cultivation, where farmers learned how to prepare sites and plant improved varieties such as cassava TME419 and TME693, and potato DOSA. These participatory sessions enable farmers to observe and practice new methods, thereby reinforcing their confidence in adopting improved technologies on their own farms.

“The idea behind these farmer field school days is to bridge the gap between scientific research and local farming practices,” explained Dr Nanga Samuel, a researcher from IITA. “We want farmers to see, touch, and test improved technologies in real field conditions because when they learn by doing, adoption becomes faster and more sustainable.”

Importantly, the initiative also emphasized inclusivity, empowering women farmers and ensuring they play an active role in decision-making and agricultural innovation. The hands-on learning approach not only strengthened technical capacity but also fostered collaboration among farmers, researchers, and local authorities.

“I used to plant my cassava without proper spacing or improved stems,” said Tchoumba, a farmer from Bandjoun. “During the field day, I learned how to prepare the soil and use certified varieties like TME419. I plan to apply these methods on my own farm next season to increase my yield and income.”

“This experience opened my eyes,” shared Nguene, a female farmer from Touegoue. “Before, I didn’t know how to control pests effectively or use organic compost. Now I feel confident to teach other women in my group how to do it. We’ll start by improving our maize plots together.”

The Minister of Scientific Research and Innovation, Dr Madeleine Tchuente, attended the event and praised IITA’s contributions to seed production and agricultural development in Cameroon. Her presence underscored the government’s recognition of IITA’s pivotal role in advancing the country’s agricultural transformation agenda.

Dr Madeleine Tchuente, Minister of Scientific Research and Innovation, said: “IITA’s work is helping transform our agriculture from subsistence to innovation-driven productivity. These field days demonstrate how science can truly serve our farmers and strengthen Cameroon’s food security.”

IITA’s ongoing initiatives in Cameroon reflect a strong commitment to building resilient and productive agri-food systems through research, technology, and innovation. By engaging farmers directly in learning and experimentation, and by fostering partnerships with institutions like MINRESI, IRAD, and CIP, IITA continues to drive real change on the ground.

As these collaborative efforts expand, the future of agriculture in Cameroon looks increasingly promising, with farmers being better equipped, communities becoming more food-secure, and the nation’s agricultural landscape defined by innovation and opportunity.

Contributed by Ritha Bumwe

Dr Agre Paterne with participants of the Knowledge Café

IITA–CGIAR hosted another enlightening edition of its monthly Knowledge Café seminar series, featuring a captivating presentation by Molecular Breeder, Agre Paterne. The hybrid seminar, held on 23 October, focused on “Cutting-edge genomic and bioinformatic applications in yam breeding: Current advances.” Moderated by Cassava Breeding Program Lead, Ismail Rabbi, the session spotlighted the remarkable progress achieved in yam breeding through the application of advanced genomics tools.

The Knowledge Café, organized by the IITA Communication Office, serves as a dynamic platform for strengthening internal communication, promoting knowledge exchange, and fostering innovation across the Institute. It encourages open dialogue, critical thinking, and collaborative problem-solving among IITA scientists and partners.

Introducing the speaker, Rabbi described Paterne as the lead of the yam genomics and genetics platform, commending his contribution to the development and use of genetic resources for yam improvement at IITA and within global breeding networks. He highlighted Paterne’s extensive expertise, spanning genetic diversity and population structure analysis, marker development and trait discovery, genomic prediction and selection, as well as bioinformatics and genetic resource management.

Rabbi further noted that Paterne has published over 110 scientific papers since 2016 and gained international recognition at the Advances in Genome Biology and Technology Conference in Orlando, where he received the Next Gen Leadership Award—a testament to his global influence in molecular breeding research.

In his presentation, Paterne emphasized the critical importance of yams (Dioscorea spp.) as both a food and a cash crop, supporting over 300 million people in Africa, with significant socio-cultural value. Despite challenges such as pests and diseases, he highlighted major advances made by the IITA Yam Breeding Team through genomics-driven innovations.

He explained that the team has developed Genomic Selection (GS) tools with highly informative markers for yams, reducing the breeding cycle period from four years to three years through the integration of molecular marker-assisted selection and improved seed multiplication methods.

Paterne also introduced the IITA Yam Genome Hub, an innovative database developed to streamline yam research. The hub addresses key challenges in the breeding unit, enabling quick searches for sequenced accessions and their biomarkers, file conversion across genome variant formats, and efficient storage and organization of genome-wide markers.

Among the team’s key achievements, Paterne mentioned the development of improved genome references for D. alata and D. rotundata; creation of quality control markers for breeding accuracy; deployment of highly informative markers for product advancement; refinement of the yam pangenome by adding more sequencing samples across species; and full integration of genome information into ongoing yam breeding research.

Looking ahead, Paterne revealed that the breeding team is targeting plant architecture as a major trait of interest. “We aim to develop yam varieties that no longer require staking, but can grow like Irish potatoes, making cultivation easier and more accessible to farmers,” he explained.

Sharing his personal motivation, Paterne reflected on the advice his supervisor gave him early in his career: “Your publications will speak for you; no one will know your work unless it is shared.” He encouraged young scientists to publish their research widely and to build a strong, multidisciplinary support community that fosters collaboration and growth.

Through seminars like the Knowledge Café, IITA continues to promote a culture of innovation and learning, ensuring that ground-breaking scientific research translates into real-world agricultural transformation across Africa and beyond.

Contributed by Ochuwa Favour Daramola

IITA Deputy Director General, Dr Tahirou Abdoulaye, delivers his address to guests during the official launch of the Soils4Liberia Project

Soil is the basis of human existence. After decades of neglect, deforestation, and a lack of reliable data eroding this natural foundation, a bold new initiative launched in Monrovia is set to restore hope, rebuild knowledge, and redefine how Liberia nurtures its soils and land resources.

IITA–CGIAR, in partnership with the European Union (EU), International partners, and the Government of Liberia, has officially launched the EU-funded Liberia Land and Soil Resources Knowledge Project (Soils4Liberia). The landmark initiative was officially launched on 22 October 2025 and aims to transform Liberia’s understanding, management, and utilization of its land and soil resources through the application of science, technology, and collaboration.

Acting Project Manager, Dr Samuel Mesele Explains the Project

Held at the Sinkor Palace Hotel, the launch ceremony brought together senior government officials, international development partners, research institutions, and civil society organizations. Representing the Agriculture Minister, Dr J. Alexander Nuetah, Deputy Minister for Technical Services, Hon. Solomon Hedd-Williams, described the Soils4Liberia Project as more than a development initiative – a shift in national consciousness toward valuing the very resource that sustains life. “This is not just another event on our calendar,” Hon Hedd-Williams said. “It marks the beginning of a journey toward sustainable agricultural growth, environmental resilience, and national food security.

Representing IITA’s Director General, Dr Tahirou Abdoulaye, Deputy Director General for Partnerships and Scaling, underscored the central role of soil information in Africa’s agricultural transformation. “The importance of soil information in agriculture and decision-making cannot be overstated if we are to achieve sustainable agricultural transformation,” he noted.

Representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture, the European Union, and IITA during the ribbon-cutting at the launch of the Soils4Liberia Project

The European Union Delegation to Liberia, led by Ambassador Nona Deprez, reaffirmed the EU’s longstanding commitment to Liberia’s agricultural and socio-economic development. The EU’s support for Soils4Liberia reflects its global mission to advance sustainable food systems and promote resilience against climate shocks. This goal aligns with Liberia’s national priorities under the Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law and Governance, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism (ARREST) agenda.

Speaking at the launch, Dr Samuel Mesele, Soil Scientist and Interim Soils4Liberia Project Manager at IITA, presented an overview of the project and progress in implementation, emphasizing the project’s focus on a nationwide soil inventory and soil suitability assessment, with a strong emphasis on human capacity strengthening.

IITA team, Donors, partners and participants after the launch of the project in Liberia

While delivering her goodwill message, the former Vice President of the Republic of Liberia, Dr Jewel Howard Taylor, emphasized the need for soil information as the basis of agricultural land-use planning at the farm level by farmers and at the policy level by the government and policymakers.

The launch brought together representatives from major development and research partners, including the World Bank, IFAD, FAO, ISRIC–World Soil Information, MATE – Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, and the Regional Hub for Fertilizer and Soil Health for West Africa and the Sahel.

National partners include the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA), Central Agricultural Research Institute (CARI), and the University of Liberia (UL). Other stakeholders and beneficiary institutions involved are the Forestry Development Authority (FDA), Liberia Land Authority (LLA), National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Liberia Institute of Statistics and Geo-Information Services (LISGIS), National Bureau of Concessions (NBC), and Liberia Agriculture Commodity Regulatory Authority (LACRA). Following the official launch, two-day technical sessions were held from 23 to 24 October 2025, providing an opportunity for in-depth dialogue and knowledge exchange among soil scientists, researchers, and agricultural experts, including the development of a work plan.

Contributed by Daniel Sirleaf Momo

Some IARSAF Fellows with Professor Michael Abberton, Head of IITA Genetic Resources Center and Director Western Africa Hub.

The African Plant Breeders Association (APBA) Conference 2025 was an inspiring experience for members of the IITA International Association of Research Scholars and Fellows (IARSAF) as they took the center stage during various sessions, sharing their research, exchanging ideas, and representing the spirit of scientific excellence that defines vision of the community.

Several scholars, including Uzoma, Chizaram Oluebube, Marvelline Chifamba, Olamide Afolarin, Omoboluwape Diekade, Ayomide Bhadmus, and Surprise Adedeji, displayed posters based on their ongoing research. Each of them offered fresh perspectives and innovative findings to discussions during the conference. Their work reflected the diversity of IARSAF’s research interests, ranging from improving crop resilience to enhancing nutrition and productivity.

A notable highlight was the oral presentation by Omotola Dorcas Olaoye titled “Exploiting genetic background in cassava nested association mapping population.” Her delivery captured both the complexity and potential of cassava genetics. Dorcas also made the IARSAF community proud by receiving the prestigious Borlaug Fellowship Award, one of only six awards given to Africans. The Borlaug Fellowship supports young researchers who make meaningful contributions to global food security, providing them with training and opportunities to enhance their scientific and leadership skills. Her recognition reflects her hard work, dedication, and the supportive mentorship culture at IITA.

The conference extended beyond presentations to emphasize meaningful conversations and connections. Omoboluwape Diekade spoke at a fireside chat organized by the Feed the Future VACS Capacity Project, where she participated in an open discussion with funders, including Dr Claudia Canales of Kirkhouse Trust and Dr Rufaro Madakadze of AGRA, to understand their expectations and how researchers can align their work with real-world impact. Her contribution provided an important voice to the dialogue on bridging the gap between research and implementation.

IARSAF Fellows with Sore Sougrynoma, Head of IITA Capacity Development Office

Following the conference, several IARSAF scholars and alumni, including Ufuoma Akpojotor, continued their engagement by participating in the Genomics and Bioinformatics Hackathon. Their active involvement showcased a strong commitment to continuous learning and the practical application of advanced scientific tools to tackle challenges in food and nutrition security. The APBA Conference was a truly memorable event for the IARSAF community serving as an environment for exploring establishing research partnerships and learning experience. The visibility, passion, and teamwork displayed at the APBA Conference serve as reminders of what can be achieved when young African researchers are supported and inspired to succeed.

Contributed by Chizaram Uzoma and Victor Diekade

Cowpea seed multiplication field at Good nature seed company limited. (Photo credit:Jonathan Odhong - IITA) — Cowpea seed multiplication field at Good nature seed company limited. (Photo credit:Jonathan Odhong – IITA)

In an era when the challenges of food security, climate change, and sustainable agriculture continue to define global priorities, stakeholders in the plant science space gathered for an engaging mini-symposium that offered deep insights into how innovation in plant science and research can shape the future of agriculture and food systems in Africa and beyond.

The hybrid mini-symposium themed; “Plant Science and Innovation – Bridging Discovery and Application”, a side event of the Cassava Source Sink (CASS) project meeting, hosted by IITA-CGIAR, brought together students, researchers, and scientists across IITA hubs as well as donors. Seven distinguished speakers through their different presentations offered insight on how technological breakthroughs and innovations have impacted plant science, highlighting key turning points, prospects, and a thorough grasp of plant health regulations.

Uwe Sonnewald, the chair of biochemistry at the University of Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), shed light on the genetic mechanisms that underlie heat tolerance in potatoes. It was shown that tolerance genotypes exhibited early tuberization and high expression of SELF-PRUNING 6A (SP6A), a key tuberization genes and heat tolerance is associated with a reduced expression of defense genes like terpene synthase. Given climate change, global food insecurity, understanding the genetic of heat tolerance is essential for sustainable agriculture in sub-Saharan Africa.

Wolfgand Zierer, a senior scientist at the University of Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) in simple terms, explained how biotechnological concepts are tested in cassava. Ideas are identified, introduced into DNA constructs, transformed, and taken to the field for testing. Through this approach, several genes have been tested followed by target phenotyping measurement. Wolfgang and colleagues, whose research focuses on improving the source-since relationship, reported the favorable role of ATK2, a plant gene encoding a kinesin motor protein, in carbon allocation, and its impact on tissues under drought stress. Evidence of symplasmic phloem loading was highlighted. Understanding and manipulating source-sink relationships can increase the efficiency of carbon capture (source), its conversion to sugar, and its movement through the vascular system to the root (sink), where the sugar is converted and stored. This will increase the root yield of the plant.

Field phenotyping as shown by Onner Muller, the deputy head of field phenotyping at the Forschungszentrum Jülich research center plant phenotyping is a cornerstone of sustainable agriculture. The increasing use of high-throughput phenotyping and robotic platforms will significantly enhance data collection efficiency and quality, resulting in greater precision in crop evaluation.

Conservation agriculture trials for maize-legume intercropping and maize-legume rotations (Photo credit:Jonathan Odhong - IITA) — Conservation agriculture trials for maize-legume intercropping and maize-legume rotations (Photo credit:Jonathan Odhong – IITA)

“To close the production gap, gene editing is crucial for important staple crops, especially in sub-Saharan Africa,” said Leena Tripathi, Head of the Biotechnology Program at IITA, and Director of IITA Eastern Africa Hub. At IITA, the technologies are being implemented to develop superior crop cultivars, including Bambara groundnuts, rice, tomatoes, bananas, and yams. Bananas have seen the greatest advancements, with a focus on pests and diseases and promising results.

Crop improvement is a catalyst for transforming the agri-food system. Modernizing breeding programs is therefore essential to meeting the evolving needs of end-users noted Hapson Mushoriwa, head of breeding at IITA. As evidenced by the numerous improved varieties released, IITA’s success has been fueled by operational innovations, the integration of modern tools and technologies, advanced breeding techniques, and the routine implementation of best practices to optimize the breeder equation and the breeding schemes. Strategic partnerships, human and biophysical capacity, and adaptability to constant changes have also been key factors.

Insight on plant health regulatory framework is crucial for safe and effective, and responsible deployment and agricultural innovations. The program lead for plant health, Lava Kumar, talked about the various regulations in place and how the plant health unit, which operates in multiple countries, oversees all operations pertaining to plant health. According to Kumar, the unit oversees the movement of germplasm at IITA and ensures compliance with all regulations.

Discussions focused on how integrated seed health systems generate high-quality planting materials in large quantities and the IITA health unit’s diagnostic capabilities, which range from traditional to more advanced methods. A nature-based strategy for sustainable pest management is also incorporated into the program. Other envisioned strategies include RNA interference (RNAi) for pest management and precision pesticide distribution.

Donors are key to the future of plant science. Financial resources enable innovation, support long-term research to address pressing global challenges, and bridge the gap between science and society. Brigitte Weston, the director of product development for Gate Ag One talked about the organization’s priories, which, include accelerating research in important area such as carbon-fixing photosynthesis, yield protection, carbon assimilation and transport, and carbon-fixing bacterial symbiosis. The organization focuses on smallholder farmers who need innovations the most and strives to ensure that the products reach local markets. The following six crops are given priority: soybean, maize, sorghum, rice, and cassava. She underlined the importance of partnerships with key actors, including academic institutions, international organizations, researchers, the government, non-governmental organizations, regulators, and market actors to achieve the targets. The Alliance for Cowpea Improvement in Africa (ACIA), Cassava Whitefly Control (CWC), Enabling Nutrient Symbioses in Agriculture (ENSA), and Realizing Increased Photosynthesis Efficiency (RIPE) are a few of their current collaborations. Two IITA projects: Cassava Source Sink (CASS) and increased photosynthetic efficiency in cassava through implementation of a carbon-negative photorespiration bypass (TaCoCass) are currently funded by gate Ag One.

Africa’s agricultural potential is immense. Investing in research, adoption of moderns’ tools and technologies, scaling and access to technologies are key to building adaptive and sustainable food systems. The symposium served as a platform for students and young researchers to engage directly with global experts, exchange ideas, and gain perspectives on navigating the evolving landscape of plant science.

As the symposium concluded, there was a renewed sense of purpose that the breakthroughs of plant science must continue to bridge the gap between the laboratory and the field, ensuring that every discovery contributes to a more food-secure and climate-smart future.

Contributed by Edwige Gaby-Nkouaya Mbanjo and ’Timilehin Osunde

In a renewed effort to combat post-harvest losses and ensure safe food systems, IITA-CGIAR, and the TAAT Clearinghouse in collaboration with SASAKAWA Africa Association, has trained extension agents and maize lead farmers on improved post-harvest handling, grain quality, and aflatoxin management.

The two-day workshop, held on 9–10 October 2025, at the Agricultural Development Program (ADP) office in Lafia, Nasarawa state, brought together field officers, researchers, farmers, and development partners to strengthen their capacity in adequate storage and grain quality management.

Speaking during a presentation, Reuben Solomon, a senior research support officer and post-harvest specialist at IITA Kano, emphasized that post-harvest losses remain a significant bottleneck in Africa’s food value chain. “We invest heavily in production, but much is lost between the farm and the table,” he said, adding that technologies like hermetic storage and biological control can change that narrative.

Highlighting the science behind maize quality, Gregory Nwaoliwe, food nutritionist at IITA Ibadan, explained that maintaining grain quality begins in the field. He urged farmers to harvest their grains promptly, dry them properly, and store them in clean, airtight containers to maintain both nutritional value and market quality.

Reuben Solomon training farmers on Aflatoxin control in maize

Solomon provided insight into the scale of losses in Sub-Saharan Africa, estimated to be between 20% and 30%, and introduced participants to Aflasafe. This IITA-developed biocontrol product protects maize from aflatoxin contamination. He also demonstrated safe drying, sorting, and hermetic storage techniques, including the use of the Cocoon storage system and the application of Diatomaceous Earth for pest control.

Participants described the training as highly beneficial. “I learned new techniques that I will pass on to farmers in my community,” said Muhammad Musa Arume, one of the attending extension agents.

The workshop concluded with a call from Dr Adeoti Razack, a TAAT Consultant with IITA Benin, for ongoing farmer sensitization and the adoption of innovative post-harvest technologies to safeguard Nigeria’s maize sector and promote food safety across the region.

Contributed by Sarah Sallau

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

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

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

The IITA–CGIAR biotechnology program has officially launched a new Genome Engineering website. A dynamic digital platform showcasing cutting-edge science that is shaping the future of crops in Africa.

Cake-cutting moment to mark the genome editing website going live.

The website serves as a hub for knowledge, bringing together information on IITA’s pioneering work in genome engineering and precision breeding in bananas, yams, legumes, and other staple crops. It highlights how researchers are rewriting the DNA code to tackle persistent challenges such as pests, diseases, drought, and low yields to ensure food security and improve livelihoods for millions of smallholder farmers.

Beyond showcasing research, the platform also serves as a learning and capacity-building hub for students, researchers, and partners eager to understand genome editing better. Visitors can explore detailed case studies, videos, learn about the science behind the technology, and follow IITA’s ongoing training initiatives, including specialized courses designed to empower the next generation of African genome engineers.

Dr Leena Tripathi, Director of IITA’s Eastern Africa Hub, Director of Genetic Innovation Science Area, and Biotechnology Program Lead, described the platform as a milestone for the institute:

Ribbon-cutting by Dr Leena Tripathi to launch the IITA genome editing website.

“We see this website as a digital home for our work. It is a living showcase of our vision. Through modern biotechnology, including genome editing and transgenic approaches, we are advancing precision breeding, building African scientific capacity, and openly sharing knowledge to accelerate impact for food security.”

The platform reflects IITA’s commitment to stewardship, transparency, and communication. By providing clear, accessible information on genome engineering, IITA hopes to foster greater understanding and dialogue with policymakers, partners, and the public.

The launch took place during the training workshop on genome editing for crop improvement in Nairobi, where scientists, partners, and trainees had the first opportunity to explore the platform together. It marks an exciting step forward in IITA’s mission to harness cutting-edge science for development.

Explore the new website and learn how the IITA biotechnology program contributes to Africa’s food security story.

Contributed by Rose-Harriet Okech

Research theme: Improving crops

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