In Tanzania, access to high-quality seeds has significantly benefited smallholder farmers by improving their livelihoods. Despite impressive economic growth, poverty reduction has not kept pace, and malnutrition rates remain a challenge.
The Accelerated Varietal Improvement and Seed Systems in Africa (AVISA) project, funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF), led by CIMMYT, and implemented in Tanzania by the Syngenta Foundation for Sustainable Agriculture (SFSA), is an excellent example of the positive impact of supporting smallholder farmers by ensuring seed availability, access, and affordability.
Tanzanian smallholder farmers face challenges in increasing yields and incomes due to a lack of affordable, high-quality seeds, inadequate agronomic training, and limited access to reliable markets. Distance from seed suppliers and agro-dealers, along with impassable roads, exacerbate the situation. In addition, the distribution networks of private companies that produce certified seeds are very limited, especially for underutilized crops.
The Quality Declared Seeds (QDS) system is a seed production system that ensures seed meets a minimum quality standard through inspection by an official seed certification system or a designated inspector from the local government authority. SFSA, through the AVISA project, is focusing on supporting the production of QDS by community-based groups for common bean and groundnut varieties in several districts in Tanzania.
A Groundnut QDS field owned by Chamwiilee Agro-Live Group in Bahi District (Photo: SFSA)
Two QDS-producing farmer groups received free Early Generation Seed (EGS) capital, consisting of 200 kg of Selian 13 bean seed, 150 kg of Tanzanut seed, and 50 kg of Naliendele 2016 groundnut seed. As a result, the groups sold 1.35 MT of QDS for common beans and 2.00 MT of groundnuts to individual farmers in the Karatu and Bahi districts respectively.
âThis initial investment by the AVISA project has, therefore, improved the incomes of these groups, and we are seeing an increased demand for larger volumes of improved seeds within seed value chain actors and off-takers,â states the Tanzanian Program Coordinator, Papias Binagwa.
Women farmers from Chamwiilee Agro-Live Group in Bahi District proudly showcase their groundnut QDS harvest (Photo: SFSA)
Both the Tanzania Official Seed Certification Institute (TOSCI) and the Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI) have been instrumental in supporting this initiative by providing training to farmers on current regulations and seed production practices. The QDS-producing farmer groups have been hosting local smallholder farmers for informational visits and field demonstrations to showcase the use of improved varieties and agronomic practices that enhance yields. As a result, QDS-producing farmers are full of praise.
âThanks to this initiative, I have more sources of income as my yields have significantly increased from the seeds I sourced from TARI-Selian and ALSSEM seed company. The training has improved my seed handling and management. My extra agronomic knowledge will also benefit my fellow farmers,â says Baraka Hamis from Karatu district.
Joyce Yuda from the Chamwiilee Agro-Live QDS-producing group further stated, âThanks to the seed sales, I have paid my childrenâs school fees and renovated my house. My food is assured, and I have economic freedom.â
How can market intelligence and seed system insights drive varietal turnover for groundnut, sorghum, and beanstakeholders? This was the central question explored during a series of workshops convened by the Accelerated Varietal Improvement and Seed Systems in Africa (AVISA) and The Accelerated Varietal Adoption and Turnover for Open-Pollinated Varieties (ACCELERATE) projects.
Held from October 21-25, 2024, across three locations in Tanzania, these workshops were designed to identify practical solutions for improving varietal turnover.
The AVISA Project focuses on modernizing crop breeding programs and strengthening seed systems to enhance the productivity, resilience, and marketability of key dryland cereals and legumes in sub-Saharan Africa. By ensuring that smallholder farmers have access to high-quality improved varieties, AVISA contributes to better food security, nutrition, and economic development.
ACCELERATE, complementing AVISAâs efforts, focuses on market-driven adoption strategies by analyzing the requirements and constraints of both large- and small-scale marketplace traders. It aims to catalyze the uptake of new varieties through market intelligence-driven interventions and foster partnerships across formal, semi-formal, and informal seed sectors to accelerate varietal adoption and turnover.
The workshops opened with expert presentations from breeders and seed system specialists from CIMMYT, CIAT, and TARI. Key topics included the adoption of improved seeds for groundnuts, sorghum, and beans; groundnut processing for peanut butter; the sustainability of digital inclusion initiatives; challenges and opportunities in seed systems; and the increasing demand for crops such as groundnuts, sorghum, and beans. The speakers provided valuable insights into crop production, seed availability, market demand, and the desired traits for improved crop varieties.
Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Dodoma â Stakeholders across Tanzania gathered to explore how market intelligence and seed system insights drive varietal turnover for groundnut, sorghum, and bean value chain (Photo: Marion Aluoch/CIMMYT)
Three separate sessions were held in Arusha, Dodoma, and Dar es Salaam, bringing together farmers, processors, traders, and researchers to deliberate on systemic challenges affecting varietal turnover. Participants then identified practical solutions to enhance the adoption of improved varieties of sorghum, beans, and groundnuts.
Opening each workshop session, TARI representatives emphasized the critical role of high-quality seeds in realizing higher crop yields and achieving agricultural growth.
âWe are here to ensure improved varieties leave shelves and reach farmersâ fields in efforts to support the envisaged 5% annual growth in agriculture,â remarked Fred Tairo, the TARI Manager in Dar es Salaam. In Arusha, Nicholaus Kuboja, TARI Center Director, Selian, highlighted the importance of market intelligence. âMarket intelligence is crucial, as market access has been a persistent challenge across African countries, particularly for smallholder farmers, in securing profitable markets for their produce.â
The Director General of TARI, Thomas Bwana, speaking in Dodoma, focused on partnerships. âWe are actively promoting the production and distribution of early generation seed, particularly breeder seed, for access by downstream seed producers. Through collaborations with other value chain actors, we strive to ensure that these seeds meet the quality standards needed by both seed and grain producers, as well as consumers who are keen on specific varietal traits,â he noted.
The subsequent discussions underscored the importance of collaboration and innovation to meet the rising demand for these vital crops.
Identifying Challenges
In experience sharing among participants across the three workshops, some key challenges were brought to light. For instance, farmers reported limited access to certified seeds as a major barrier to increasing productivity. A farmer from Dodoma expressed concern that current seed distribution networks often do not reach remote areas, leaving farmers with no option but to use inferior seeds from the sources available.
âWe want to use quality seed, but the distribution networks donât reach us,â he said. On the other hand, traders expressed frustration over inconsistent supplies of high-quality grain produce, which is also aggravated by poor grain handling due to inadequate storage conditions leading to contamination.
Stakeholders in Arushain a group discussion, sharing insights, challengesand strategies to enhance market-driven adoption of improved crop varieties.(Photo: Marion Aluoch/CIMMYT)
One groundnut trader noted, âPoor pre- and post-harvest handling has led to smaller, shriveled nuts, making it difficult for traders to meet market expectations.â Processors echoed these concerns, highlighting aflatoxin contamination as a significant problem that undermines both product safety and marketability. They stressed the need for better practices. âWe need better practices at every stage of the value chain to minimize aflatoxin contamination in the grains sourced for processing,â emphasized one processor.
Additional challenges emerged, with common bean farmers highlighting difficulties with post-harvest storage and pest damage, which reduced both quality and market value. Processors, meanwhile, pointed out consumer misconceptions that hinder the acceptance of improved varieties. For instance, white sorghum varieties that naturally turned brown during processing were sometimes perceived as inferior, underscoring the need for better consumer education.
Unveiling Solutions
Despite the challenges, the workshops were a source of optimism, as well as underscoring viable, innovative solutions and actionable strategies to drive progress. Participants explored newly released crop varieties, including TARI Sorg 1 and TARI Bean 6, which offer higher yields, disease resistance, and improved nutritional content. Stakeholders in Dodoma emphasized the use of digital tools such as WhatsApp channels and SMS for real-time updates on seed availability and agronomic practices. âModernizing how we share knowledge can bridge gaps between farmers and researchers,â remarked one participant.
Capacity building emerged as a key strategy for tackling many of the systemic issues discussed. Farmers called for more training on seed handling and post-harvest practices to reduce losses and improve crop quality. Processors stressed the need for targeted interventions for aflatoxin management, a critical step in ensuring the safety and marketability of groundnuts. Researchers and agricultural organizations underscored the importance of aligning breeding programs with market needs.
In Arusha, discussions centered on developing groundnut varieties tailored to specific processing needs, such as improving peanut butter quality to meet consumer preferences and market standards.
Participants engage in a practical session during the Dar es Salaam workshop, exploring digital tools and market insights to enhance seed systems and varietal adoption.(Photo: Marion Aluoch/CIMMYT)
Expanding the seed distribution network also emerged as a key priority. TARI committed to scale up the production of Quality Declared Seed (QDS) and strengthen partnerships with private seed companies to ensure a consistent supply of high-quality seeds across the country. âQuality seeds must reach every corner of the country,â affirmed a TARI scientist. The stakeholders also called on breeding programs to align with market demands, emphasizing the need to tailor improved varieties to specific consumer and processor requirements.
Insights from Stakeholders and Actionable Strategies
Breakout sessions provided a platform for stakeholders to articulate their specific needs. Farmers from Dodoma and Dar es Salaam shared a common observation of increasing demand for groundnuts, sorghum, and beans, largely driven by population growth and international market expansion. In Dodoma, farmers emphasized that improved crop varieties had significantly boosted cultivation over the past decade.
Despite this progress, they highlighted the lack of drought-resistant varieties and limited access to affordable, high-quality seeds as persistent challenges. In Dar es Salaam, farmers noted that while demand for the crops had risen, their ability to meet this demand was hampered by limited seed availability and education on effective usage. Both groups agreed that weak seed distribution networks, high seed prices, and insufficient knowledge undermine productivity.
Stakeholders in Dodoma engage in discussions, sharing their insights on enhancing varietal adoption. (Photo: Marion Aluoch/CIMMYT)
Processors and traders from both Arusha and Dar es Salaam echoed these concerns but added insights into market dynamics. In Arusha, processors identified aflatoxin as a critical challenge, with inadequate farmer knowledge on grain handling practices exacerbating the issue. Processors also emphasized the need for nutrient-enhanced beans and groundnuts suited for specific products like peanut butter and flour. Traders in Arusha highlighted the need for pure white sorghum and beans free from pests to meet growing demand, particularly for export markets.
As the workshops concluded, participants identified key strategies to strengthen agricultural resilience. These included improving the seed supply chains, enhancing market linkages, and investing in continuous learning and education initiatives.
Echoing this vision, the TARI Director General emphasized in Dodoma, âThis is just the beginning. By working together, we can ensure that every farmer, processor, and trader has the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving agricultural landscape.â
Cosmas Chachi’s demo fishpond – one of the nine ponds where he trains locals in fish farming (Photo: Cosmas Chachi)
Cosmas Chachi, a 46-year-old businessman, owns Triple Blessing Supermarket in Zambia’s Luwingu District. In 2000, Cosmas identified an opportunity to address the growing demand for fresh fish in his community and started selling the product in his local area. Like many rural entrepreneurs, Cosmas faced initial challenges such as unreliable supply chains, insufficient cold storage, and limited access to financing, all of which prevented him from meeting the rising demand from local customers. Undeterred, Cosmas embarked on a transformative journey into aquaculture.âŻÂ
The turning point for Cosmas occurred in April 2023 when he participated in a training program on integrated aquaculture under the aegis of the Southern Africa Accelerated Innovation Delivery Initiative (AID-I) Rapid Delivery Hub, led by CIMMYT. The training implemented by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), one of the key implementing partners of the project, emphasized sustainable intensification and equipped Cosmas with advanced skills in sustainable feed management, water quality control, efficient harvesting methods, and business management, among other areas.âŻÂ Â
A view of Cosmas Chachiâs Triple Blessings Supermarket, a thriving hub where he sells fish from his fishponds and manages his off-taking business (Photo: Cosmas Chachi)
“The training equipped me with expert knowledge in aquaculture management and skills to design and operate efficient fishponds,” Cosmas said.âŻ
With his new-found expertise, Cosmas upgraded three of his existing fishponds and built six more, each measuring 13×15 meters. To meet customer demand, he introduced a strategic stocking system, staggering the placement of 1,000 fingerlings across his nine ponds. This innovation ensured consistent fish supply even during Zambia’s annual fish ban. “By stocking and harvesting my ponds, I can maintain a steady supply even during the national fish ban when local supply decreases because some other farmers who supply my supermarket depend on fish from natural water bodies,” Cosmas shared.âŻÂ
Creating livelihoods and building resilience
Cosmasâ aquaculture enterprise has become an economic engine in his community, employing 25 permanent workers, primarily local youth, and offering seasonal jobs to 12 more. For Emmanuel Makumba, a shop attendantâŻat Triple Blessing supermarket for the last eight years, the opportunity has been life changing. âThe job at the supermarket helped me relocate from my village, build my own house, and send my children to a private school,ââŻsaid Emmanuel.Â
In June 2024, his business received a significant boost with the installation of a 15-ton cold storage facility, funded by IWMI through the AID-I project. The upgrade significantly reduced post-harvest losses and enhanced Cosmas’ fish storage capacity. It ensures a steady supply for his business and the farmers he supports, strengthening the local aquaculture value chain.âŻÂ
âIn the past, we could only purchase 50 to 100 kilograms (kg) of fish at a time, selling it at US$ 2.50 per kg,â Cosmas shared. With the new cold storage facility, Cosmas can now buy and store up to 700 kg of fish per harvest without the risk of spoilage. The effort not only secures a reliable supply for his business but also creates a dependable market for local consumers, fostering growth and sustainability in the regionâs aquaculture sector.âŻÂ
A ripple effect of progress: Expanding aquaculture for community impact
Today, Cosmasâ success goes beyond his supermarket. He owns a thriving restaurant, offering customers a unique dining experience with fresh fish from his ponds. âThe training I received during the AID-I workshops helped me transform my passion for aquaculture into a successful business. Now, in addition to the supermarket, I own a popular restaurant and outdoor fishponds, offering customers a unique dining experience,â he said.âŻÂ
Fish from local fish farmers before being stocked at Triple Blessings Supermarket (Photo: Cosmas Chachi)
Building on his business success, Cosmas has further expanded his impact by transforming his fishponds into practical classrooms, offering free, hands-on training to aspiring fish farmers. Over the past year, he has trained 50 farmers in sustainable aquaculture best practices.âŻÂ
As more farmers in Luwingu adopt these practices, local food security improves, and income streams diversify. Cosmasâ leadership is stabilizing the communityâs food supply and improving diets with nutrient-rich fish. This aligns with AID-Iâs broader goal to promote sustainable and scalable agricultural models.âŻÂ
By September 2024, the AID-I project, through IWMIâs efforts, had supported 297 fish farmers with training, market linkages, and tools for success across Northern and Luapula Provinces: creating a ripple effect of progress and also addressing Zambiaâs fish supply and demand gap.âŻThe project empowers communities to adopt innovative and sustainable aquaculture practices, driving growth in fish production and ensuring a more reliable supply to meet the needs of a growing population. As fish is a critical source of protein and essential nutrients, fostering a sustainable aquaculture sector is vital for supporting Zambia’s food security and nutritional goals.âŻÂ
Cosmas’ journey exemplifies the power of partnerships, innovation, and resilience in driving community progress. It underscores the potential for a robust aquaculture sector in Zambia, where challenges spur solutions and success benefit entire communities. Through AID-Iâs comprehensive interventions, Cosmasâ story of transformation offers a vision for sustainable development in rural Zambia, led by innovation and community empowerment.
The first harvest from the fish demonstration was attended by Mr. Sakala, District Livestock Coordinator, who was invited to observe the progress and assess the impact of the initiative (Photo : Cosmas Chachi)
In Zimbabwe, smallholder farmers like Ranganai Shonhiwa and Martha Chivengwa are facing the harsh realities of climate change, with erratic rainfall and prolonged droughts threatening their maize cropsâtheir primary source of food and income. However, drought-tolerant maize varieties, developed through decades of research by CIMMYT and partners, are proving to be a game-changer. These resilient crops, combined with climate-smart farming practices such as reduced tillage and intercropping with legumes, are helping farmers maintain yields despite extreme weather conditions. With CIMMYTâs ongoing efforts in 19 districts across Zimbabwe, farmers are seeing improved harvests, increased incomes, and renewed hope for a more food-secure future.
Improved seeds of sorghum and groundnut have been a game-changer for farmers in Nigeria, doubling their yields and transforming their livelihoods.
At the Farmers’ Field Day organized by the Centre for Dryland Agriculture (CDA)in Tofa Local Government, farmers from 22 adopted communities of CDA shared their remarkable stories of increased productivity and income.
(Photo: CIMMYT)
As a partner in the AVISA project and the African Dryland Crop Improvement Network (ADCIN), in collaboration with CIMMYT, CDA plays a vital role in developing and disseminating improved seed varieties tailored for dryland farming systems. Through comprehensive research efforts, CDA focuses on screening and selecting superior seed varieties for multiplication and distribution, ensuring that agricultural practices remain both sustainable and productive.
The AVISA project, funded by the Gates Foundation, aims to enhance food security, resilience, and the livelihoods of small-scale producers and consumers in the dryland regions of Nigeria and eight other countries in West and Central Africa, including Senegal, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Togo, Mali, Cameroon, Chad, and Niger. By strengthening networks to modernize crop breeding and fostering public-private partnerships, AVISA works to improve the productivity, profitability, and marketability of key dryland crops, including sorghum, millet, groundnut, cowpea, and common bean.
Similarly, ADCIN, established in August 2023 and convened by CIMMYT through its Dryland Crops Program (DCP), serves as a collaborative platform bringing together over 200 scientists from more than 17 countries in sub-Saharan Africa. ADCINâs mission is to foster a dynamic and sustainable network dedicated to improving dryland crop varieties and ensuring their accessibility to farmers. By leveraging the collective expertise of its multidisciplinary members, the network aims to accelerate the adoption of resilient and high-yielding crops, ultimately transforming dryland agriculture.
Farmers shared compelling testimonies about the impact of CDAâs work on their productivity and income. Faruk Haruna, a beneficiary of CDA’s training and improved seeds, testified that his millet yield skyrocketed from 15â20 bundles to 52 bundles, a staggering increase of 200%. He jokingly referred to CDA as the “Cash Development Association” due to the significant financial gains.
(Photo: CIMMYT)
Nasiru Yusuf, another farmer, reported an impressive four-fold increase in yieldâapproximately a 400% increaseâwith the improved sorghum seeds, leading to a substantial boost in income.
Women farmers also praised CDAâs initiatives. Amina Habibu and Nafisatu Auwalu shared how CDA’s training and improved seeds have transformed their farming practices and benefited numerous women farmers’ associations.
(Photo: CIMMYT)
“CDA’s efforts have been instrumental in improving agricultural practices among local farmers,” said Deputy Director of Training, Prof. Sanusi Gaya Mohammed.
He emphasized the centerâs commitment to enhancing farming through research and community engagement.
Echoing this sentiment, the Deputy Director of Outreach and Publications of CDA, Professor Amina Mustapha, said CDA is happy with the progress made by the farmers and how their farming systems have improved. She noted that the field day provides farmers with an opportunity to interact with the centre and learn best practices to further enhance their productivity.
Dr. Hakeem Ajiegbe, a senior researcher at CDA, underscored the importance of modern farming practices. âFarming all over the world has changed, and it is imperative for farmers to adopt best practices to improve their yield,â he said.
The district head of Tofa Local Government, Alhaji Sunusi Abubakar Tofa, commended CDA for its impact on farmers in the 22 adopted communities. He urged local farmers to continue embracing CDAâs innovations to enhance food production and ensure long-term agricultural sustainability.
Dr. Rosichan joins IWYP after 30 years as an R&D leader in both the private and public sectors. During that time, he led complex multinational, multidisciplinary and multifunctional research teams. Most recently he was Scientific Program Director for the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research (FFAR) where he was the Director for the Crops of the Future Consortium and Next Generation Crops Challenge Area. He will continue to reside in the USA.
BBSRC has provided the consultancy position in recognition of the valuable achievements of IWYP in serving the wheat scientific community over these past 10 years during which IWYP has been funded and guided by numerous governmental funding agencies and private sector wheat breeding companies.
IWYP’s strong links are with scientists studying yield-related wheat traits all over the world as well as with many breeding programs, public and private. IWYP’s mission is to serve breeding programs, especially through its Hubs in CIMMYT, Mexico, Kansas State University in the USA and the National Institute of Agricultural Botany in the UK, by delivering trait-improved elite germplasm.
FabiĂĄn, his gaze marked by years of experience, speaks of his land with the pride of someone who has learned to listen to the voice of the earth. “We used to plant the way God guided us,” he says, recalling the days when farming was a practice of intuition and inherited wisdom.
Today, with the support of SEFADER technicians like Reinalda GĂłmez and her team, they have transformed their approach to farming. FabiĂĄn and Tomasa have learned to respect the rhythms of the soil, to give back what they take, and to see each plant through a new lens. “It’s like food for food,” FabiĂĄn explains.
Corn and beans grow unhurriedly in their fields. The land is enriched with crop residues that were once fed only to livestock, along with compost that was once discarded. “It’s a lot of work, but it’s our life,” says FabiĂĄn, with the firm determination of someone who understands that effort is part of the cycle.
For Tomasa, each harvest is a link to her ancestors. “The land gives us life,” she says with unwavering certainty. In her fields, milpa thrives alongside squash, beans, amaranth, and purslane, in a balance that requires patience and respect. She has learned to let nature do its work, to understand that burning fields robs the soil of its ability to renew itself. “We pile up the weeds, let them decompose, and that’s how the land nourishes itself,” she explains.
The journey has not been easy. Last year, a violent storm destroyed much of their crop. “It grew beautifully, but the wind tore everything down,” FabiĂĄn recalls with resignation. But they are not giving up. “We make do with what God gives us, because it is more than enough for us.” What remains is harvested as seed for the next cycle.
Every application of bio-inputs, every crop diversification, every lesson shared by agricultural engineers has changed their way of farming and their understanding of life. The land, once seen as an adversary that imposed its own rules, is now an ally that responds generously to care.
The story of FabiĂĄn and Tomasa is a testament to resilience and learning. It is proof that agriculture can be different, that tradition and innovation can go hand in hand. Because in every bean they harvest, in every ear of corn they save for the next cycle, there is a valuable lesson: the land gives back what it receives. And in Santa Catarina, under the sun that shines on FabiĂĄn and Tomasa’s fields, life flourishes with strength.
Zimbabwean farmers are facing severe crop losses due to the combined impacts of climate change, drought, and fall armyworm infestations, threatening food security and livelihoods. CIMMYTâs expertise in climate-smart agriculture is crucial in tackling these challenges, as highlighted by Dr. Christian Thierfelder, who emphasizes sustainable pest management strategies such as intercropping, regenerative farming, and biological control methods. These approaches not only reduce reliance on pesticides but also enhance resilience against climate-driven pest outbreaks. With maize yields at risk, integrating CIMMYTâs research-driven solutions can help smallholder farmers adapt, ensuring more sustainable and productive farming systems in Zimbabwe and across sub-Saharan Africa.
Farmers in Zaka with their recent harvest of drought tolerant maize (Photo: CIMMYT)
In Zimbabwe, CGIAR, through CIMMYT, runs a maize breeding program to strengthen food security and livelihoods in a country where maize is a staple crop. The program spans diverse testing plots â managed exclusively by men, women, or both â providing crucial insights into real-world farm dynamics. A significant component of our work is the extensive on-farm trials conducted across various regions, helping us understand how men and women farmers interact with and benefit from new maize varieties. Here are two ways we ensure that women-managed plots reap the same benefits as those led by men in Zimbabwe.
Increasing Women’s Representation in Crop Breeding Trials
This dichotomy highlights the importance of on-farm trials in the crop development process, as they provide insights into the diverse needs and realities of different farmer groups.
Zimbabweâs maize breeding program has expanded on-farm trials significantly over the past few years, by over five-fold. However, women-managed plots are often underrepresented in participatory approaches. Research from Kenya also showed that trial participants are often wealthier and more educated, benefiting from stronger access to information and agricultural networks.
Training to Ensure Inclusive Farmer Representation
CGIAR and CIMMYT often rely on partners with direct connections to farming communities to select host farmers for breeding trials. Recognizing the risk of bias and underrepresentation of women farmers in this process, we designed a training program for extension officers to ensure a more representative selection of women farmers from different socioeconomic backgrounds in the country.
Without intentional representation, trial results may skew toward wealthier, male-managed farms â limiting their relevance for the broader farming population. In addition, in Zimbabwe, women-managed households are not a homogeneous group. Our research identified two distinct categories, each with unique challenges and needs. One group was wealthier in terms of agricultural assets and livestock, with a greater area under maize production. The second group of women-managed households was more resource-poor, with smaller livestock herds and greater use of intercropping within maize fields.
Using data from a survey of over 2,000 farmers, we worked to validate farmer selection processes, ensuring that women farmers were accurately represented. Today, this training is conducted annually and has become a key component of our programâs approach.
For too long, on-farm trials did not adequately reflect the diversity of farming realities. Through this gender-sensitive approach, we are now able to fine-tune recruitment methodologies to account for socioeconomic disparities. By ensuring that all groups are included in trials, we can develop and promote maize varieties that truly serve the diverse realities of Zimbabwean farming households.
Farmer in Murehwa District with her drought tolerant maize variety (Photo: Jill Cairns/CIMMYT
Incorporating Gender and Social Considerations into the Testing of Novel Genetic Technologies
In hybrid maize seed production, both male and female plants are planted side by side to facilitate controlled pollination. A critical step in this process is detasseling â the removal of male flowers (tassels) from the female plants to prevent self-pollination. If detasseling is not done correctly, the resulting seeds will not express hybrid vigor, ultimately affecting yield and performance.
This process presents two major challenges. Incomplete detasseling can result in hybrid purity issues that can lead production fields to either being rejected or farmers unknowingly paying for lower-quality seed that impacts productivity. Accidental leaf loss during the detasseling process also reduces female seed yields by approximately 14%.
To address these challenges, a Gates Foundation-funded project we implemented has explored ways to simplify the process of hybrid maize seed production by removing the need to detassel through a novel genetic technology. This technology also had a clear benefit for women farmers.
Why This Matters and How to Scale the Innovation
Although seed production involves multiple steps, this innovation has direct benefits, especially in resource-limited settings. Since only 50% of plants produce pollen, this approach optimizes yieldâparticularly under low-nitrogen conditions, where many smallholder farmers struggle. The technology is adaptable across different maize varieties, making it a scalable solution.
To validate this approach, we conducted station trials, followed by on-farm testing. These trials are helping us understand how both men and women farmers adopt and benefit from these varieties, particularly in drought-prone areas, where women are more likely to recycle seeds.
With the knowledge that in drought-prone years women were more likely to recycle hybrid seed, we refined our testing strategy to evaluate potential yield benefits if recycled. We found the technology provided a small, yet significant yield benefit should a farmer choose to recycle hybrid maize seed in an anticipated drought season.
Our approach provides insights into how gender and social inclusion considerations can be incorporated into breeding testing strategies. By evaluating variety performance across real-world farm conditions and gathering insights to refine and optimize future breeding efforts, new varieties will meet the needs of men and women farmers in Zimbabwe.
Conclusion
When promoting the adoption of new maize varieties and technologies, gender is one factor among many that shape adoption. Early- and late-stage on-farm trials are essential in bridging the gap between scientific innovation and real-world impact, ensuring that the varieties we develop are not only high-performing in research settings but also practical, accessible, and beneficial for all farmers.
To achieve this, a transdisciplinary approach is key. Integrating social scientists into breeding and development strategies provides deeper insights into how different farming groups interact with new technologies. By refining our selection process, testing, and deployment, we can ensure that both women- and men-managed farms benefit equitably, ultimately driving food security and better livelihoods.
Farmer Tariro from Gokwe South prepares maize for milling (Photo: CIMMYT)
Integrating inclusive perspectives in agricultural research is critical to enhancing the livelihood trajectories and resilience of a diversity of resource-poor farmers. Recognizing this, CIMMYT identified gender commitment and capacity as key to achieving its 2030 Strategy. The aim is to ensure that women, equity, youth, and social inclusion are actively and meaningfully embedded into all CIMMYT research streams so that scientific advances promote equity and expand opportunities for women in agriculture.
Women are at the heart of resilient agrifood systems. Across the Global South, they grow food, manage farms, support families, and drive rural economies, yet they continue to face systemic barriers to resources, markets, and decision-making. CIMMYT works alongside women farmers, researchers, and policymakers to ensure that gender-responsive innovations reach those who need them mostâwhether through climate-smart seeds, inclusive digital advisory services, or strengthening women’s economic networks. From Ethiopia to Zambia, from India to Sudan, CIMMYT is driving evidence-based solutions that help women, enhance productivity, and improve livelihoods.
Differences in wheat varietal turnover go beyond distinctions between men and women farmers
Rapid varietal turnover is an important coping mechanism to risks arising from the spread of pests or diseases and a means of increasing crop yields from genetic innovations. However, a recent study under the Accelerated Genetic Gain (AGG) for wheat project in Bihar, India, shows that wheat varietal turnover is generally too slow. The studyhighlights that the Indian wheat sector is characterized by deep-rooted social inequalities, reflected in the social differentiation of wheat farmers based on identity, caste, ethnicity, wealth, and their intersectionality.
Using data collected from 759 wheat farmers in Bihar, the study explored whether these social groups are excluded from the adoption of new and improved wheat varieties. Results demonstrated only small differences in varietal turnover across heterogeneous social groups of farmers. There were only small differences in varietal turnover between female-headed and male-headed households, despite already low overall turnover rates across these groups. However, marginalized caste farmers appear to be more disadvantaged, as they tend to cultivate older wheat varieties, which deserves closer attention from policymakers.
Can targeted information campaigns through womenâs institutions stimulate household seed purchases?
This study examines the impact of targeted information sessions on household fresh wheat seed purchases in Ethiopia, where seed distribution primarily occurs through farmer unions and cooperatives. Despite women’s active role in farm decision-making, extension services often focus on men. This study tests whether disseminating information through women-dominated networks enhances seed purchases. Results show that information transmission through economic and social networks positively influences household participation. However, no significant differences are found between male-only and mixed-gender channels. Effects are strongest in households where women participate in wheat production decisions.
Redesigning technology testing strategies to incorporate practices associated with women
To stimulate demand by seed companies to replace old varieties, a novel nuclear genetic technology was developed to reduce the complexity of hybrid maize seed production. Hybrid seed produced using this technology also has a yield benefit to farmers under low-input conditions. As women typically use less fertilizer than men, they were identified as primary beneficiaries of this technology.
It is important that new technologies are evaluated under the real-world conditions farmers face. In Zimbabwe, women are more likely to plant recycled hybrid maize seed in years when drought is predicted. Based on this knowledge, the evaluation of this new genetic technology was expanded to investigate if different recycling scenarios of hybrid maize seed produced using this technology could provide a yield benefit. Although recycled hybrid maize seed reduces potential yield, in years that farmers cannot afford to plant only hybrid maize, this technology offers a yield benefit compared to conventional hybrid seed. This studyhighlights how social considerations can be incorporated into new product design and testing strategies.
Digital inclusion in agricultural advisory in Zambia
Agricultural advisory services in sub-Saharan Africa have not equitably reached or benefited women and marginalized groups, but newer voice-based, mobile-phone platforms in local languages may help overcome literacy, time, and mobility constraints. This study, using a randomized controlled trial (RCT) with 2,800 Zambian farmers, evaluates how different combinations of digital and in-person advisory approaches impact trust and participation in advisory services, Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) knowledge, adoption of CSA practices, maize yields, and inclusion in decision-making among women, men, and youth.
Findings will contribute to ongoing dialogue among researchers, digital extension tool designers, donors, and implementers, providing empirical evidence and best practices for developing socially inclusive digital advisory systems that strengthen the role of women and youth in smallholder agriculture.
Gender and agricultural entrepreneurship during Sudanâs civil war
This study explores the intersection of gender, entrepreneurship, and conflict in Sudan, examining how war has reshaped agribusiness opportunities, challenges, and dynamics. Using phone-based survey data and in-person, in-depth interviews, we find that womenâs participation in agribusiness has increased, driven by economic necessity as menâs incomes decline and living costs rise, and with targeted NGO initiatives supporting women entrepreneurs.
However, womenâs greater involvement has not been accompanied by a narrowing of gender gaps in financial outcomes: women-owned businesses persistently generate lower sales than those owned by men. Encouragingly, social norms around womenâs mobility and public economic roles appear to be loosening. War-induced migration of businesswomen from Khartoum, where womenâs entrepreneurship is more socially accepted, to more conservative states could play a role in relaxing traditional roles and demonstrating that women are capable entrepreneurs who can contribute importantly to both their familiesâ and their communitiesâ economies.
Every two years, CIMMYT hosts its Science and Innovation Week (SIW), a moment not only for reflection but also for action. SIW2025 is more than a gathering; it is a call to action, challenging us to create lasting change and transformative impact. Each day, we wake up with a bold mission: to make our work meaningful to the ultimate beneficiaries – smallholder farmers.
To kick off this year’s Science Week, CIMMYT Director General Bram Govaerts reminded participants that at the heart of our work is real-world impact. More than an opportunity to evaluate strategies, Science Week is about envisioning and driving the future of food systems.
âCIMMYTâs work connects communities worldwide, from labs to corn harvests. Your tireless research deserves accolades as profound as a Nobel Prize” said Ted McKinney, CEO of the JS National Association of State Departments of agriculture, NASDA & Former USDA Undersecretary. Recognizing this urgency, CIMMYT convened leading scientists, researchers, and decision-makers at its headquarters in Texcoco, Mexico, for Science Week 2025.
This flagship event brought together experts at the intersection of agriculture, climate and food security to foster collaboration and inspire action for resilient food systems. With CIMMYT’s research agenda focused on addressing the world’s most pressing agricultural challenges, Science Week served as a key platform to shape the future of innovation, strengthen partnerships, and accelerate impact on global food security. Through knowledge sharing and strategic discussions, participants explored transformative solutions that will empower smallholder farmers, build crop resilience, and ensure a sustainable future for food systems worldwide.
A platform for collaboration and innovation
The first day set the stage for a dynamic exchange of ideas, bringing together global experts to address agriculture’s most pressing challenges. Discussions explored climate-smart agriculture, the role of digital transformation, and the resilience of seed systems, highlighting the need for innovation to ensure food security. Advances in crop breeding and cutting-edge research took center stage, reinforcing CIMMYT’s commitment to developing scalable, science-based solutions that empower farmers.
Sessions covered a wide range of topics, including climate-smart agriculture, digital transformation in agriculture, resilience of seed systems, and advances in crop breeding. High-level panels and thought leaders highlighted the importance of collaboration, from integrating AI and strategic partnerships to amplifying research impact, while deep diving into CIMMYTâs scientific breakthroughs. The challenge was clear: think beyond the event, push boundaries, and make a meaningful impact that extends far beyond this week.
From data-driven decision-making to sustainable food production, discussions reinforced the need for strategic collaboration, digital transformation, and responsible innovation. With a strong focus on open data and climate resilience, day two underscored CIMMYT’s commitment to translating science into real-world impact for farmers and food systems worldwide.
With CIMMYT generating around 122 datasets annually, experts stressed the importance of improving data quality, integrating new information, and standardizing workflows for greater transparency and efficiency. The discussions also tackled food security, conflict, and economic instability. With 8.4 million people affected by food insecurity in Latin America and the Caribbean, experts highlighted the urgent need for social protection systems, digital solutions, and adaptive policies.
Moving forward, CIMMYT must bridge science and action, ensuring that research translates into tangible solutions for farmers and food systems worldwide – because resilience is not just an option; it is the foundation of sustainable agriculture.
Scientific excellence in action
As Science Week 2025 drew to a close, discussions focused on two key themes: partnerships and communicating impact. To kick off the session, Aaron Maniam, Fellow of Practice and Director, Digital Transformation Education, Oxford University Blavatnik School, challenged participants to rethink collaboration – not just as coordination but as a balance between integration and fragmentation. Collaboration is non-negotiable, and positioning CIMMYT as the partner of choice will be critical to advancing its mission.
Today’s challenges are too complex to tackle alone, and strategic partnerships are essential to amplify impact, leverage resources, and scale innovation. But successful partnerships go beyond collaboration – they require trust and shared goals. Science must be accessible, compelling, and strategically packaged to engage diverse audiences and drive real-world change. As we move forward, the challenge is clear: Embrace, amplify, and boldly communicate our impact to shape the future of food and agriculture. The work does not stop here, this is just the beginning of the next chapter in transforming global food systems for a food and nutrition secure world.
Ugandaâs Dr. Godfrey Asea of NaCRRI was recognized for developing over 20 maize varieties, including drought-tolerant hybrids that support food security. His work has earned multiple breeding and technology awards from CIMMYT, reflecting CIMMYTâs commitment to advancing climate-resilient maize in Africa. As Ugandaâs Minister of Agriculture warns against counterfeit seeds, CIMMYTâs efforts in supporting national research institutions remain crucial in ensuring farmers have access to high-quality, stress-tolerant seeds.
Carolina Sansaloni, Curator of the Wheat Collection at the Germplasm Bankand a specialist in genotyping highlights the role of women in preserving agricultural biodiversity and encouraging new generations to pursue their passion for research.
Carolina Sansaloni, genotyping specialist and wheat curator, emphasizes the role of women in science and agricultural conservation. (Photo: Gabriela Bracamonte/CIMMYT)
Since childhood, Carolina Sansaloni has been fascinated by nature and genetics. Her desire to find answers led her down a challenging path, but one that ultimately brought her to where she is today: Curator of the Wheat Collection at CIMMYT’s Germplasm Bank, one of the most important in the world. Her work, and that of her team, is fundamental to food security and nutrition, ensuring the protection and accessibility of wheat and maize genetic diversity to meet the challenges of climate change and growing food demand.
“For me, the greatest satisfaction is knowing that what we do at CIMMYT helps more people put food on their tables. It’s not an individual effort; it’s a collective effort for a greater good,”
But the Germplasm Bank’s impact goes beyond conservation. Its team of scientists, technicians, laboratory staff, and field workers plays a critical role in research and safeguarding one of the world’s most valuable collections of maize and wheat. From seed collection and storage to characterization and distribution for genetic improvement programs, each woman on this team is an essential part of CIMMYT’s mission: generating science and innovation for a food-secure and fed world.
The journey for women in science has not been easy. Sansaloni acknowledges that while she has had mentors and support throughout her career, many women still face challenges in the scientific field.
“A woman’s voice in science has to be earned. We face obstacles, but with perseverance, support, and determination, we can overcome them,” she says.
Leaving her home in Argentina to pursue her passion was one of her biggest challenges. “The biggest challenge was leaving my environment, my family, my friends, but I knew that my motivation was science and its power to change the world.” Today, her story inspires many young women to embrace their curiosity and pursue careers in science.
To girls who dream of science, she says, “Explore, question, discover. With effort and dedication, nothing is impossible.”
To parents, she advises: “Encourage your children’s curiosity, let them make their own choices, and you will be amazed at their ability to innovate.”
We honor all the professionals at CIMMYT, whose knowledge, commitment, and dedication are key to achieving a world of food security and nutrition.
If you’ve ever dreamed of changing the world, science is a great place to start.
MarĂa Luisa Cabrera in the laboratory where she conducts her research at CIMMYT. (Photo: Francisco AlarcĂłn / CIMMYT)
The progress of science and technology depends on the diversity of talent that contributes to its development. However, the participation of women in fields such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) remains limited. In Mexico, only 22% of women enrolled in higher education choose STEM fields, and according to the Mexican Institute for Competitiveness (IMCO), only 13.5% graduate.
This situation presents both challenges and opportunities. Science, especially in critical areas such as food security and nutrition, needs a greater presence of women to drive significant change. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has highlighted the urgency of integrating more women researchers into agricultural science to accelerate innovations that improve production and the well-being of rural communities.
One example of the transformative impact of women in science is MarĂa Luisa Cabrera Soto. Since childhood, Luisa was inspired by female scientists she saw in the media, which fueled her dream of working in a laboratory. “These women were my reference, my source of inspiration. I visualized myself and said, ‘I want to work in a lab.'” But her journey was not easy. Coming from a family with traditional gender expectations, she faced resistance to her desire to pursue a career in science.
The first obstacle she encountered was her family’s outright disapproval. “I come from a family of six women and a patriarchal figure. Hearing phrases like ‘you are not capable of studying something as complex as science or mathematics’ was the first barrier I had to overcome,” she recalls.
“I had to break these family stigmas, these traditions, and say to myself: ‘I am capable of studying what motivates and inspires me, which is science. Being a woman does not limit me to domestic activities.'”
Today, the girl who once dreamed of working in a laboratory is part of the CIMMYT research team. As a research assistant, her work in chromatographyâa process that allows the separation, identification, and quantification of chemical components in various mixturesâhelps assess the nutritional quality of various crops, primarily maize. Her work has a direct impact on the nutrition and health of various populations, as well as the livelihoods of agricultural producers.
MarĂa Luisa’s story has become an inspiration to her sisters, who have also ventured into the world of science, demonstrating how one personal choice can inspire change across generations. “I broke the paradigm in my family, and fortunately my four younger sisters also chose science. It was a change that broke down a major barrier in my home.”
Through their scientific work, Luisa and other female researchers at CIMMYT are making a significant contribution to improving the human condition in a sector where women play a critical role in food production and security, from the field to the laboratory.
The low percentage of women in STEM fields in Mexico and globally is not only an issue of equityâit is also an obstacle to developing innovative solutions in key sectors. According to UNESCO, only 33.3% of researchers worldwide are women. Luisa’s message to girls and young women in Mexico is clear: “Follow your dreams, question the world, and don’t let social ideologies or family traditions dampen your curiosity and enthusiasm. More and more women are joining this field, and we must support one another.”
In Nigeriaâs drylands, a seed revolution is transforming the landscape, bringing hope and prosperity to farmers in even the most remote communities. Through the innovative Farm and Community-Managed Seed System (FCMSS) approach, farmers, womenâs groups, and seed entrepreneurs are gaining access to high-quality sorghum seed, driving agricultural transformation in underserved regions.
Championed by the Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR) and the Dryland Crops Program through the AVISA project led by CIMMYT, this initiative bridges the gap between traditional and formal seed systems, delivering life-changing solutions to last-mile farmers and enhancing rural livelihoods across the country.
Empowering communities through innovation
The FCMSS approach combines community-driven strategies with institutional support to ensure improved seed availability, accessibility, and adoption. The impact has been profound, with three newly released sorghum varietiesâSAMSORG 52, SAMSORG 52, and SAMSORG 53âtransforming the agricultural landscape. These varieties are being produced locally, ensuring that farmers in nearby communities have access to seeds tailored to their needs.
Farmers achieve record yields
For farmers like Abdullahi Danliti Dawanau, the FCMSS approach has been life changing. Cultivating SAMSORG 52, Dawanau achieved an impressive 4 tons per hectareâthe best yield of his farming career.
“This is the best yield Iâve achieved in all my years of farming,” he shared, highlighting the transformative potential of the new sorghum varieties.
His farm, located near the Dawanau International Grain Market in Kano State, has become a demonstration site, inspiring fellow farmers and drawing admiration for the high yield and quality of the variety. Many even mistake it for an imported hybrid, underscoring its quality and productivity.
Women are leading the production and distribution of new sorghum varieties across several states in Nigeria. (Photo: Muhammad Ahmad Yahaya/IAR )
Women farmers leading the way
Women are emerging as key drivers of this agricultural revolution. The Yakasai Women Farmers Group in Kano State, led by Rabi Yakasai, is spearheading efforts to produce and distribute the new sorghum varieties. Their success has led to an overwhelming demand for the seeds in states such as Kano, Jigawa, Gombe, Bauchi, and Yobe, as well as in neighboring Niger Republic.
âThese varieties fit perfectly into our farming systems,â said Mrs. Yakasai, emphasizing how they cater to local agricultural needs. SAMSORG 52, for instance, is an early-maturing and short-statured variety that aligns well with relay cropping systems, particularly when intercropped with cowpea. Similarly, SAMSORG 52Â and SAMSORG 53Â are medium-maturing varieties suitable for intercropping with millet and maize. These varieties provide tailored solutions to enhance productivity and sustainability for farmers in the region.
Following their participation in TRICOT on-farm trials, the group is working to meet increasing demand across multiple states.
“We need support to scale up seed production and meet these orders,” added Mrs. Yakasai.
Government and industry support success
The success of the FCMSS approach has garnered support from state governments and private sector stakeholders. During the 2nd National Sorghum Conference, held in Gombe State on December 4-5, 2024, the Gombe State Commissioner for Agriculture reaffirmed the stateâs commitment to adopting climate-smart, early maturing sorghum varieties.
Private companies are also getting involved. GreenPal Global Limited, a prominent seed company, is stepping up its efforts to meet growing demand. Following successful trials of the new varieties, the company plans to scale up the production of certified seed by 2025. Similarly, Northern Nigeria Flour Mill, the countryâs largest sorghum processor, is working with farmer associations such as SOFAN and NASPPAM to source quality sorghum for its flagship product, Golden Penny Dawavitaâa key ingredient in staple foods such as Tuwo (a dish made from sorghum or millet flour, cooked into a thick, smooth paste or dough-like consistency) and Dumame (a dish made from fermented sorghum or millet flour, often cooked into a thick porridge).
Locally produced grains of the new sorghum variety, ensuring farmers in nearby communities have access to seeds tailored to their needs. (Photo: Muhammad Ahmad Yahaya/IAR )
Ensuring quality and certification
The National Agricultural Seed Council (NASC) is actively supporting the initiative by training seed entrepreneurs and monitoring seed production to ensure quality standards. During a Brown Field Day in Bagadawa community, Kano State, NASC commended the progress made under the FCMSS and the active involvement of farmers and womenâs groups.
“The progress of the FCMSS and the active participation of farmers and womenâs groups are truly commendable,” said the North-West Regional Director of NASC.
A brighter future for the drylands of Nigeria
The FCMSS approach is more than a seed production systemâit is a movement transforming the lives of farmers and communities. By building a resilient seed system, empowering local communities, and driving economic growth, the initiative is ensuring food security and prosperity in Nigeriaâs drylands. With growing momentum, the future is bright for farmers, processors, and entrepreneurs, signaling a new era of agricultural success.
