Senior representatives from CIMMYT visited the John Innes Centre to strengthen their strategic partnership focused on advancing global wheat research. Key collaborative efforts include the Wheat Disease Early Warning Advisory System (DEWAS) and research on genetic resistance to wheat blast. CIMMYT’s Director General, Dr. Bram Govaerts, emphasized the long-standing partnership’s global impact, noting that around 70% of the world’s wheat is linked to CIMMYT’s network. Dr. Sarah Hearne, Chief Science and Innovation Officer, highlighted the shared commitment to providing sustainable solutions that enhance farmers’ resilience and productivity worldwide.
From 11 -22 November 2024, global leaders convened in Baku, Azerbaijan for COP29. Dubbed the finance COP, critical intersections of climate change, food systems, and sustainable development took center stage. This year’s conference reflected both the progress and the persistent challenges in addressing the climate crisis, marking a critical moment in the climate negotiations.
Food Systems at the Forefront
COP29 highlighted the undeniable importance of transforming global food systems as a cornerstone of effective climate action. Initiatives like the Harmoniya platform and the Declaration on Methane from Organic Waste shows the global community’s recognition of agriculture as both a contributor to and a solution for greenhouse gas emissions. However, the broader discussions were a reminder of the gap between ambition and implementation, with financial commitments and concrete action plans often falling short.
While food systems gained visibility, the debates often revealed tensions, particularly on issues like global stocktake outcomes, financing, and the integration of mitigation and adaptation strategies. Despite these challenges, the coordination and cohesion within the food systems community were commendable, reflecting a collective resolve to carry the momentum forward.
COP 29 – Baku, Azerbaijan
Key Outcomes and Agreements
Climate Finance and the NCQG
A central focus of COP29 was the New Collective Quantified Goal on climate finance (NCQG). While the actual need for climate finance is estimated at $1.3 trillion annually, the outcomes of COP29 fell short, with only $300 billion explicitly committed to developing countries. The inclusion of voluntary contributions from non-traditional donors like China and the UAE added nuance but failed to resolve the broader financial gaps.
Mitigation Work Programme
Discussions on the Mitigation Work Programme highlighted fundamental disagreements over whether the program should prioritize specific actions linked to the global stocktake. While some nations sought prescriptive approaches, others emphasized the voluntary nature of nationally determined contributions (NDCs). These debates highlight the complexities of aligning global and national climate priorities.
Adaptation and Resilience
The global goal on adaptation progressed with the launch of the Baku Adaptation Roadmap, though challenges remain in refining and agreeing upon adaptation-related indicators. Meanwhile, the Sharm El Sheikh Joint Work on Agriculture and Food Security moved forward with plans for an online portal to share best practices and tools for climate action.
Collaborative Frameworks
The conference saw advancements in collaborative mechanisms such as the Paris Agreement Crediting Mechanism under Article 6, which aims to enhance transparency and accountability in carbon markets. Platforms like Harmoniya and the Global Nitrous Oxide Hub were also launched to streamline efforts in addressing specific climate challenges.
CIMMYT at COP29
Amid these broader discussions, CIMMYT came out to strongly champion for the alignment of scientific innovation with the practical challenges of transforming food systems. Sieglinde Snapp and Tek Sapkota represented CIMMYT at high-level side events, highlighting the critical need to leverage research to tackle climate challenges. Their contributions focused on developing actionable pathways to bridge the persistent gap between ambitious goals and effective implementation.
Participation in high-level panel discussions
Date:November 12, 2024 Event:High-Level Panel on Sustainable Agriculture
Tek Sapkota shared CIMMYT’s efforts in advancing food systems, climate resilience, and environmental sustainability, aligning with the UAE COP28 Declaration on sustainable agriculture. The event featured remarks from distinguished leaders, including H.E. President Taye Atske Selassie of Ethiopia, H.E. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen of Denmark, and H.E. Amna Al Dahak of the United Arab Emirates among other world leaders.
Date: November 18, 2024
Event: Making Agriculture Smart by Going Wild
Sieglinde Snapp was part of panel discussions chaired by the United Kingdom Nature minister to discuss leveraging wild crop relatives and underutilized species to enhance agricultural resilience against climate risks. She highlighted CIMMYT’s efforts towards biodiversity in achieving food security.
(Photo: Maria Monayo/CIMMYT)(Photo: Maria Monayo/CIMMYT)(Photo: Maria Monayo/CIMMYT)(Photo: Maria Monayo/CIMMYT)
Other events include:
Scaling Innovations for Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Date: November 12, 2024 Presented CIMMYT’s research on precision agriculture, showcasing strategies for leveraging site-specific nutrient management to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while increasing food production and supporting food security. (Link recording)
Pre-COP30 Discussions on Fertilizer Innovations Date: November 14, 2024 Highlighted innovative technologies in fertilizer production and management as part of technological breakthrough to reduce GHG emissions from agricultural sectors. (Link recording)
Partnerships for Soil Health and Agricultural Resilience Date: November 15, 2024 Explored the role of public-private partnerships in advancing soil health and resilience. The discussion highlighted innovative soil management technologies that conserve nitrogen, preserve soil organic carbon, and promote climate-smart agriculture.
Enhancing Soil Health for Climate Action Date: November 16, 2024 Addressed practical strategies for improving soil health to mitigate climate change and enhance agricultural sustainability. (Link recording)
CGIAR Panel Discussion on Innovation in Soil Fertility Management Date: November 18, 2024 Shared insights on advancing soil fertility management through cutting-edge innovations that balance productivity and sustainability. (Link recording)
Global Nitrous Oxide Hub Launch Date: November 19, 2024 Discussed the importance of reducing nitrous oxide emissions in agriculture, aligning with global efforts to mitigate climate change.
VACS Networking Events Date: November 19, 2024 Discussions highlighting public-private-civil society partnerships for sustaining agricultural resilience and advancing the VACS agenda.
Launch of the 2024 Breakthrough Agenda Report Date: November 20, 2024 (Link recording)
Non-Negotiated Outcomes
Beyond formal agreements, COP29 featured significant declarations and initiatives that highlight emerging priorities:
Human Development for Climate Resilience:The Baku Initiative for Climate Finance, Investment, and Trade (BICFIT) Dialogue, launched at COP29, integrates climate finance, investment, and trade to drive sustainable development and support vulnerable populations. It fosters global collaboration and aligns climate action with economic resilience.
The Road Ahead: From Baku to Belém
As the world prepares for COP30 in Belém, Brazil, the outcomes of COP29 provide both lessons and opportunities. CIMMYT, aligned with the CGIAR 2030 Research and Innovation Strategy, is uniquely positioned to drive transformative action in food systems.
Key priorities for COP 30 include:
Strengthening Finance Mechanisms: Addressing the financial gaps in adaptation and mitigation efforts, particularly for low-income nations.
Scaling Collaborative Initiatives: Building on platforms like Harmoniya to foster cross-sectoral and international collaboration.
Embedding Food Systems in Climate Policy: Ensuring that agriculture and food systems are integral to NDCs and national adaptation plans.
Advancing Science for Action: Driving actionable research to close gaps in implementation, particularly in nutrient management and biodiversity conservation.
CIMMYT-ICAR Workshop on Long-Term Agricultural Experiments (Photo: CIMMYT)
CIMMYT and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi, co-hosted a one-day workshop on Long-Term Experiments (LTEs) in agriculture, focusing on Conservation Agriculture (CA) and Regenerative Agriculture (RA) practices. The workshop aimed to explore strategies for researchers from the national systems to come together with CIMMYT colleagues and identify ways to increase productivity, improve food security, strengthen climate resilience of agricultural systems, and enable Indian farmers and researchers to take advantage of innovations and new research in LTEs.
The event was chaired by Dr Suresh Kumar Chaudhari, Deputy Director General for Natural Resource Management at ICAR. In his remarks, Dr Chaudhari highlighted the critical role of LTEs in understanding evolving agri-food systems. He emphasized the value of revisiting past research with fresh perspectives, taking into account new knowledge, and taking a long-term, strategic view of our agricultural research portfolios.
Dr. Prasanna Boddupalli, Regional Director for South Asia – CIMMYT, highlighted the importance of LTEs in generating knowledge for sustainable practices. He expressed hope that the workshop would inspire innovative ideas, such as the use of climate-resilient crop varieties like drought- and heat-tolerant maize, and the use of predictive analytics and machine learning to identify emerging trends
Dr Alison Laing chaired the workshop. She outlined the objectives of the workshop and emphasize the importance of collaborative discussions in formulating guidelines and recommendations for ongoing and future experiments on CA and RA. She also highlighted the need for resource mobilization and contributions from the participating institutions.
The opening session featured presentations by senior scientists, including Dr M.L. Jat (ICRISAT), Dr Rajbir Singh (ICAR-NRM ADG), Dr Rakesh Kumar (ICAR-RCER), Dr Madhu Choudhary (ICAR-CSSRI), Dr H.S. Jat (ICAR-IIMR) and Dr C.M. Parihar (ICAR-IARI). They provided insights into ongoing LTEs on CA and RA at their research institutions, including key research foci, discussed challenges and opportunities, and stressed the importance of ensuring the continuity of LTEs in the face of shifting priorities and donor fatigue.
All participants then engaged in group discussions to address emerging priorities, funding challenges and barriers to implementation, and to identify ways in which LTEs can generate data to demonstrate the long-term impacts of agricultural practices and the performance of different cropping systems. These breakout sessions culminated in a plenary session where participants consolidated key issues and reached consensus on actionable recommendations.
Dr Laing concluded the workshop by announcing that the recommendations would be compiled into a joint document to be submitted to ICAR-NRM, providing a roadmap for strengthening LTEs in India.
In his vote of thanks, Dr Mahesh Gathala (CIMMYT) commended the participants for their valuable contributions to the objectives of the workshop’s. He expressed confidence in the collective commitment of scientists and institutions – public and private – to the advancement of LTEs and their critical role in strengthening agricultural and food system science and research.
As part of the CGIAR Initiative on Agroecology, the Feed the Future Zimbabwe Mechanization and Extension activity participated in the 2024 Agroecology Fairs held in Murewa and Mbire districts on September 25 and October 17, 2024, respectively. The events provided valuable platforms to collaborate with the initiative and showcase different scaling pathways for mechanization within the context of sustainable, efficient farming.
(Photo: CIMMYT)
At the Mechanization and Extension activity’s exhibition stand, visitors explored an array of machinery specifically tailored to small-scale farming needs. Among the featured equipment were basin diggers, two-wheel tractors, multi-crop threshers, chopper grinders, trailers, and peanut butter processing machines, including a groundnut sheller, peanut roaster, and peanut butter-making machine. Each piece of equipment aligns with existing activities within the initiative to demonstrate practical solutions for improving labor efficiency and enhancing crop productivity which might be needed during agroecology transitions.
The basin digger drew significant attention, especially from farmers encountering it for the first time or wanting to know more about how they could become service providers. Designed for creating basins such as those established under the Pfumvudza/Intwasa conservation agriculture program, the basin digger can significantly reduce labor and time in land preparation, especially for those with limited access to manual labor.
The service provision model: a pathway to accessible mechanization
Participants interested in the service provision model received first-hand information on the benefits of the program and how they could sign up. The service provision model is a key part of the Feed the Future Zimbabwe Mechanization and Extension activity, designed to facilitate year-round access to mechanization services in farming communities.
Through this model, trained service providers are established locally, offering a range of fee-based services, including land preparation, crop management, post-harvest processing, value addition, and transportation. This model makes essential machinery accessible to farmers without requiring them to purchase it outright. To support the establishment of service providers, three financing options are offered:
Loan facility: Prospective service providers apply for a loan from BancABC, with a 30% initial deposit of the total machinery cost. Upon approval, the balance is paid directly to the machinery supplier, who then delivers the equipment.
Hire purchase agreement: Service providers may opt for a hire purchase arrangement with the manufacturer, where machinery is provided after an agreed deposit, with the remaining balance paid over three to four months.
Outright cash purchase: Community members with funds can purchase machinery.
Strong community interest and prospects for growth
The Mechanization and Extension activity stand generated substantial interest among farmers in both districts. In Murewa, 95 participants engaged with the display, with eight potential service providers expressing interest in acquiring the peanut butter-making machine, manual groundnut sheller, and peanut roaster. Groundnut production is high in Murewa, so farmers were especially intrigued by the value addition machinery, which opens new opportunities for processing and marketing.
“As groundnut farmers, these machines will give us a business opportunity to sell peanut butter in large quantities,” said attendee Colleta Nzara of Murewa district.
“We used to lose so much money by just selling unshelled groundnuts because very few could manually process into peanut butter, but with these machines, the whole process is so much easier,” said Florence Mutize of Murewa district.
In Mbire, where 57 participants visited the stand, the basin digger was a major attraction.
“This is the first time I am seeing this machine that can ease our labor burdens when making our Pfumvudza plots,” said Jennifer Nyatande from Mbire district. “I’m eager to invest in one to both reduce costs on my farm and offer services to others.“
(Photo: CIMMYT)
The 2024 Agroecology Fairs provided an opportunity to demonstrate how mechanization can be both accessible and transformative for smallholder farmers. With growing interest from local communities, the Mechanization and Extension activity continues to work toward sustainable agricultural development across Zimbabwe’s rural districts.
Under the scorching Sudanese sun, Salwa Suliman has become a symbol of transformation in Kasala. Her hands which once used to knead dough and prepare meals as a cook, are now shaping a brighter future for her family and community. A cook and trainer by trade, Salwa’s family relied on agriculture to make ends meet. But when the conflict disrupted their farming activities, their livelihood and future seemed uncertain.
Through CIMMYT’s Sustainable Agrifood Systems Approach for Sudan (SASAS), Salwa has embraced change, learning the secrets of organic fertilizer production, innovative food processing, and sustainable agriculture. With the support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), today Salwa now runs a vibrant business that produces food that nourishes the body as well as the soul. Her journey is proof that even in the harshest conditions, with the right support and determination, growth is always possible. Salwa’s success is more than a personal triumph—it’s a testament to the transformative power of hope and action rippling through Sudan.
Building resilience in the midst of conflict
In Kassala and Gadaref states, solar-powered irrigation kits have replaced costly and unreliable diesel pumps, enabling more than 2,000 farmers to grow high-value crops such as vegetables year-round. These systems not only reduce operational costs, but farmers are trained to maintain and optimize them, ensuring long-term sustainability.
Solar panels (Photo: Mercy crops)
Equally transformative are the eight solar-powered agro-processing hubs that provide essential machinery such as threshers, oil presses, and grinders. These hubs have become economic lifelines, especially for women, who use them to create micro-enterprises. From grinding and packaging dried vegetables to selling value-added products, women are driving economic growth while reducing post-harvest losses and strengthening food security.
Commitment to gender equality and representation
Women’s empowerment is a cornerstone of the SASAS approach. Through gender awareness initiatives in 20 communities, more than 2,800 participants, including 2,485 women, have addressed negative social norms, women’s rights, and decision-making in economic activities. Activities such as theatrical performances and competitions have reinforced these messages and created gender-equitable environments. This groundwork has been further strengthened by the establishment of gender committees, each of which integrates men and women to advocate for equitable access to resources and leadership roles.
The impact extends to grassroots leadership, where trained gender advocates facilitate sensitization sessions that benefit cooperative members and promote sustainable gender advocacy.
Bridging partnerships for agricultural transformation
The World Vegetable Center (WorldVeg), in partnership with SASAS, has played a key role in integrating sustainable vegetable production into Sudan’s food systems. Their initiatives —from providing quality seeds to training farmers in integrated pest management and post-harvest practices — have reached thousands of beneficiaries, with women making up 50% of the participants. Through partnerships with local organizations and private sector actors, WorldVeg has expanded access to resources and knowledge, ensuring that even conflict-affected communities can thrive.
ADRA and Mercy Corps have also been instrumental in the success of SASAS. Mercy Corps established solar-powered agro-processing centers and irrigation systems, providing critical infrastructure for sustainable agriculture. ADRA reinforced these efforts by implementing solar-powered cold storage facilities and establishing gender committees with equal representation of men and women to promote gender equity in decision-making and access to resources.
(Photo: Mercy crops)(Photo: Mercy crops)
A model for future growth
The success of SASAS demonstrates the power of combining innovative technologies, gender-focused initiatives, and strong partnerships to create lasting change. From the solar-powered cold storage facilities that preserve harvests to the empowered women who transform local economies, the program offers a blueprint for resilience and growth in fragile contexts.
USAID support for recovery and resilience
None of these achievements would have been possible without the support of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). By funding and guiding the SASAS program, USAID has enabled the integration of solar power, gender empowerment, and sustainable agriculture into Sudan’s recovery efforts. From solar-powered irrigation to the empowerment of women like Salwa, USAID’s commitment has been a beacon of hope for communities rebuilding in the midst of adversity.
Sundhani Tharu, a 44-year-old farmer from Pattharbojhi, Madhuwan-1 in the Bardiya district, in the mid-west of Kathmandu, is a leading example of how sustainable agricultural practices not only enhance crop production but also contribute to human and environmental health. Her dedication to a balanced approach to farming, which includes crop-livestock integration and the principles of the 4Rs of nutrient stewardship, has had a significant impact on her farm and the wider community.
Sundhani lives in a joint family of 58 members, with farming as the primary source of income. On their 8.13 hectares of land, they grow staple crops like rice, maize, mustard, and lentils, while also raising 26 cows, 17 buffaloes, and 45 sheep. Through this integration of crop production and livestock, Sundhani has built a closed-loop farming system where farmyard manure (FYM) from the livestock nourishes the crops, and crop residues feed the animals, ensuring minimal waste and promoting a natural balance between animals, crops, and soil health.
Sundhani with her family (Photo: Sirish Shrestha)
Central to her success is her application of the 4Rs of nutrient stewardship, which involves applying the right source of nutrients at the right rate, at the right time, and in the right place. This approach ensures that her crops receive the essential nutrients they need while minimizing environmental impact. With support from the USAID-supported Nepal Seed and Fertilizer (NSAF) Project, implemented by CIMMYT, Sundhani has been trained in nutrient management techniques, including the 4R principles. These practices have helped her optimize fertilizer use and significantly improve her crop yields, doubling her maize production from 30 to 60 quintals per hectare.
Sundhani also prioritizes the use of farmyard manure, which plays a vital role in her farming system. The manure from her livestock is carefully composted and used as a natural fertilizer, enriching the soil with organic matter and nutrients. This reduces her reliance on synthetic fertilizers, which can harm the environment and deplete soil health over time. By using farmyard manure, Sundhani is not only improving soil fertility but also promoting a healthier ecosystem for future generations.
Similarly, the importance of a healthy diet is another key focus of Sundhani’s farming journey. Her farm provides her family with a diverse range of crops, including rice, maize, mustard, and vegetables like cauliflower, tomatoes, and potatoes. These crops contribute to a balanced, nutrient-rich diet for her large family, ensuring that they receive essential nutrients from fresh, organic produce. Sundhani’s vegetable farming is further enhanced through climate-smart practices like intercropping and mulching, which protect the soil, conserve water, and increase the variety of crops she can grow.
In addition to her focus on nutrient management and healthy diets, Sundhani has embraced Integrated Soil Fertility Management (ISFM), a holistic approach to soil health. ISFM combines organic and inorganic fertilizers, along with improved crop varieties and efficient nutrient management techniques, to enhance soil fertility and ensure long-term agricultural productivity. Through ISFM, Sundhani has achieved sustainable growth in her farming operations while safeguarding the environment for future generations.
Sundhani Tharu (Photo: Sirish Shrestha)
Though Sundhani can hardly read or write, she is contributing to the “One Health” movement—a global initiative that connects the health of people, animals, and the environment through best management practices in agriculture. By integrating crops and livestock, using farmyard manure, and applying the 4Rs of nutrient stewardship, she promotes a sustainable, eco-friendly system that enhances food security, improves soil health, and protects natural resources.
Looking ahead, Sundhani is determined to expand her farming ventures. She plans to venture into seed production for rice and mustard and hopes to increase her earnings from NPR 5 lakh (USD 3,740) to NPR 8 lakh (USD 5,987). By continuing to inspire her community and advocate for local vegetable markets, Sundhani envisions a future where farming is not only a source of livelihood but a cornerstone for a healthy, thriving ecosystem.
Sundhani Tharu’s story highlights the power of nutrient stewardship and sustainable farming to create healthier soils, crops, and communities. Through her dedication to the 4Rs, ISFM, and promoting farmyard manure use, she is paving the way for a future where agriculture is in harmony with nature—benefiting both people and the planet.
CIMMYT’s economists Adeeth Cariappa and Vijesh Krishna examine the potential of agricultural carbon markets to boost sustainable farming in India while addressing climate change. Their study, published in Climate Policy, reviewed seven carbon farming projects in Haryana and Madhya Pradesh, finding limited participation from smallholders and marginalized communities, with women making up just 4% of participants.
Although new sustainable practices such as zero tillage and intercropping were adopted, key challenges remain, including poor communication, insufficient training, and delayed payments—resulting in nearly 28% of farmers abandoning these practices. To improve outcomes, the authors recommend offering better financial incentives, ensuring timely payments, and improving project implementation through partnerships with research institutions. Digital technologies like remote sensing and satellite imagery are expected to play a critical role in improving carbon credit monitoring and farmer participation going forward.
CIMMYT, in partnership with the National Semi-Arid Resources Research Institute (NaSARRI), is transforming dryland farming by giving farmers access to drought-tolerant and disease-resistant crop varieties. Through the Accelerated Varietal Improvement and Seed Systems in Africa (AVISA) project, many farmers have not only improved their yields but also built resilience to the challenges of unpredictable rainfall. Dennis Obua, a farmer who has benefited from these research advances, shares his inspiring journey to promote improved finger millet and groundnut seed varieties within his community.
“My name is Dennis Obua, a farmer from Tewayo village in Lira district. I began my farming journey back in 2018, inspired by the local farmers I met while visiting a nearby region. As I spent time with them, observing how they tilled the land, I felt a strong urge to get involved in farming myself—especially focusing on drought-tolerant cereals, which are crucial in our region due to inconsistent rainfall.
It all started with a small amount of finger millet seeds—just a handful that I obtained from NaSARRI. At the time, some visitors from NaSARRI had planted a few experimental plots nearby. One of my friends was conducting his own trials, so I approached him and asked for a small sample of seeds to plant on my farm. That was how I started growing improved finger millet varieties NAROMIL 2 and SEREMI 2 (U15). Now, I not only grow millet, but I am also actively promoting it in my community.
Dennis, a farmer from Teyawo village, has embraced improved, drought-tolerant varieties of ground nuts and finger millet (Photo: Marion Aluoch/CIMMYT)
If you look around today, you will see that many people here have started growing finger millet here too. It’s becoming quite popular. In fact, recently, some researchers from Makerere University came to our village to look for finger millet, and I took them to a nearby home where they’re doing their own research on finger millet and sorghum.
More and more people are getting into farming now, especially finger millet, because it’s proving to be profitable. I’m really grateful for the way things have turned out. It’s incredible to see that something that started with just a small handful of seeds has grown into something so significant for our community.
Alongside finger millet, I also plant groundnuts. Currently, I have three different varieties planted in neat rows: SERENUT 8R, SERENUT 11, and SERENUT 14. Before these varieties were introduced to my farm, I used to grow a local variety called Red Beauty. We would get the seeds from our local market or sometimes travel to town to buy thembut often these seeds didn’t germinate well, so we started relying more on local farmers who save seeds from one season to the next. That’s how we accessed it. That’s how we got access to them. We also have auctions here at the beginning of the season where farmers bring seeds to sell.
Dennis showcases one of the groundnut varieties planted in his demonstration plot (Photo: Marion Aluoch/CIMMYT)
However, since switching to these new varieties— SERENUT 8R, SERENUT 11, and SERENUT 14 —I’ve seen a significant difference. Among the three, SERENUT 14 is my favorite. I’ve been growing it for several seasons now. It’s drought tolerant, disease resistant, and produces a good yield. It also has a good number of pods. When I plant it, I can usually harvest 14 to 16 bags per acre, with each bag weighing between 42 to 46 kilograms. Compared to SERENUT 8R, which yields slightly less—around 12 to 14 bags per acre— SERENUT 14 performs better in our soil conditions.
What I appreciate most about SERENUT 14 is that it’s also more resistant to rot and rosette disease. While SERENUT 11 and SERENUT 8R varieties are also drought tolerant, SERENUT 14 has proven to be the most reliable, making it my preferred choice. When you consider yield, disease tolerance, and quality, SERENUT 14 stands out.
I am proud to say that I’m not the only one growing these improved varieties anymore. Many farmers in my village have adopted them because I’ve been giving them seeds, and they’ve seen the benefits for themselves. Now, they too are switching to these improved varieties of groundnut and finger millet. The two finger millet varieties I have been growing are NAROMIL 2 and SEREMI 2 (U15) and they are also catching up. Among them, NAROMIL 2 is my preferred variety because it yields well, is drought tolerant, and has a great taste — perfect for food. Before this, we only grew our local finger millet varieties. This is the first time we’ve been introduced to these improved varieties.
Dennis, displays a freshly harvested groundnut plant from his demonstration plot, showcasing the success of improved, drought-tolerant groundnut varieties (Photo: Marion Aluoch/CIMMYT)
Farming has allowed me to give back to my community. It’s amazing to see how the success of one farmer can affect an entire village. More farmers now understand the importance of using quality seeds that are not only drought-tolerant but also disease-resistant. They come to me for seeds because they trust the results they’ve seen.
That’s not to say there haven’t been challenges. There was one week where we had heavy rains after a long dry spell, which caused some of the groundnut plants to rot. Before that, there had been no rain after planting, although we had managed to do the initial weeding. I’m sure the yield would have been even better if the rains had been more consistent. Despite the challenges, the yield has still been great. That’s one of the reasons I like these varieties—they’re resilient.
I am grateful for the knowledge and experience I have gained. By sharing what I’ve learned, I hope to help more farmers in my community succeed, just as I have. I’ve seen first-hand how improved varieties of both finger millet and groundnuts can transform farming practices. The combination of drought tolerance, disease resistance, and high yield has made a significant difference to my farm’s production, and I’m hopeful that more farmers will continue to adopt these crops.”
In Kasoka village of Bukedea District in Uganda, Nelson Ekurutu, a dedicated farmer, is leading the way in agricultural experimentation. With support from the Accelerated Varietal Improvement and Seed Systems in Africa (AVISA) project—funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) and implemented in partnership with CIMMYT and the National Semi-Arid Resources Research Institute (NaSARRI)—Nelson has embarked on a journey to test three new groundnut varieties: SERENUT 8, SERENUT 11, and SERENUT 14. The demonstration plots provide him with a platform to test new varieties, helping him and others understand what works best in their locality.
While Nelson is drawn to the SERENUT 11 variety for its attractive leaves, he remains cautious, knowing that the real test will come only after the harvest. “This is my first time planting these varieties,” he says. As curious neighbors pass by and inquire about the varieties, he explains, ‘We are testing new varieties, and we’ll know more about their performance and yields after the harvest.”
The AVISA project, which aims to improve the productivity of dryland crops such as groundnut, finger millet, and sorghum, plays a crucial role in Nelson’s work. With funding and technical support from CIMMYT and NaSARRI, farmers like Nelson are given the opportunity to test improved, drought-tolerant, and disease-resistant varieties. These varieties are designed to increase yields and help farmers become more resilient to climate change while enhancing production systems.
Nelson is trialing new varieties of ground nut, finger millet, and sorghum (Photo: Marion Aluoch/CIMMYT)
Nelson’s demonstration plots, using seed supplied by NaSARRI, are part of this initiative. CIMMYT has been instrumental in ensuring that these varieties are adapted to the local environment, while also working with NaSARRI to build farmers’ capacity through hands-on training and technical assistance.
In addition to groundnut, Nelson is also experimenting with finger millet and sorghum. He values the red finger millet variety SEREMI 2 for its quick maturity and larger heads. “I planted the finger millet on April 10th, and by July this year (2024), it was ready for harvest,” he says proudly. In addition to finger millet, he is also testing several sorghum varieties—NAROSORG 2, which is red, and SESO 1, which is white. Although he likes them all, Nelson has a clear preference: “I prefer the red sorghum because birds don’t eat it as much. When mixed with cassava, it makes a good atapa.” Atapa is a staple food in Uganda made by mixing cassava and sorghum flour and cooking it with water until it forms a firm, dough-like consistency. It is typically served as a side dish with stews, vegetables, or meat. Similar dishes are known by different names across the region—Ugali in Kenya, Sadza in Zimbabwe, and Pap in South Africa—underlining its importance in African cuisine.
Nelson showcases the SESO 1 sorghum variety that is white in color (Photo: Marion Aluoch/CIMMYT)
Nelson notes that although the white sorghum produces larger heads, it attracts more birds, requiring him to cover the heads to prevent damage. These trials represent Nelson’s first experience with these varieties, and he acknowledges the learning process involved. “The seed was sourced from NaSARRI specifically for these demonstration plots,” he explains. He believes that by seeing the results first-hand, other local farmers will be able to make informed decisions about adopting the new varieties for improved seed production.
Nelson’s demonstration plots serve as valuable learning sites for the wider farming community. By bridging the gap between research and farmers’ needs, the AVISA project ensures that scientific innovations reach those who need them most. Reflecting on his journey, Nelson describes the testing of these new varieties as a continuous learning experience. “I’ve been growing sorghum for a long time, and when people see how I grow it, they often ask about the variety and where they can get seeds,” he says. After his harvest, Nelson plans to share the seeds with nearby farmers while keeping some for his own future planting.
Although he hasn’t been involved in large-scale seed distribution before, Nelson sees potential for future collaboration. “There’s a group of sunflower and groundnut farmers who have organized themselves into a SACCO to access funding,” he says, referring to the Parish Development Model (PDM) initiative. This model could offer Nelson the opportunity to expand seed distribution and help more farmers access improved varieties.
Committed to helping local farmers adopt best practices, Nelson is eager to share his knowledge. “When people see how I grow the crops, they often ask for advice or seeds,” he says. He believes that organizing field days to showcase the new varieties would be an excellent way to engage more farmers and demonstrate the value of improved seeds.
Nelson prefers the NAROSORG 2 sorghum variety known for its resilience and red grain colour (Photo: Marion Aluoch/CIMMYT)
One of the challenges Nelson frequently encounters is farmer’s poor planting practices. “Some farmers broadcast the seeds instead of planting them properly in rows,” he notes, stressing the importance of correct planting techniques. Despite this, he continues to share seeds and farming knowledge to help his fellow farmers to improve their yields.
Another key issue Nelson highlights is seed recycling, a crucial aspect of sustainable farming. “When you recycle seeds too much, they get tired,” he explains. For improved varieties, Nelson recommends recycling seeds no more than three times to maintain the health of the crop. “I recycle mine only twice. The local seeds can be recycled up to 20 times, but improved varieties don’t perform as well after a few cycles.”
Climate change is one of the biggest challenges for Nelson’s farming practices, but he remains hopeful. He believes that installing an irrigation system would help mitigate the effects of erratic rainfall and improve his yields. His willingness to try new techniques and experiment with new varieties shows his determination to find solutions in the face of adversity.
Nelson is optimistic that his trials with ground nut, sorghum, and millet will encourage other farmers to adopt improved varieties, increase seed production and lead to greater productivity in his village and beyond. Through programs like the AVISA project—supported by CIMMYT and NaSARRI—farmers like Nelson are gaining access to better seeds, growing more resilient crops, and improving food security in their communities.
CIMMYT is happy to announce four new, improved tropical and subtropical maize hybrids that are now available for uptake by public and private sector partners, especially those interested in marketing or disseminating hybrid maize seed across Latin America and similar agro-ecologies in other regions. NARES and seed companies are hereby invited to apply for licenses to pursue national release, scale-up seed production, and deliver these maize hybrids to farming communities.
The deadline to submit applications to be considered during the first round of allocations is January 31st, 2025. Applications received after that deadline will be considered during subsequent rounds of product allocations.
The newly available CIMMYT maize hybrids were identified through rigorous, years-long trialing and a stage-gate advancement process which culminated in the LT23-STG5-THW, LT23-STG5-THY, and 01-23MASTCHSTW Stage 5 Trials. The products were found to meet the stringent performance and farmer acceptance criteria for CIMMYT’s breeding pipelines that are designed to generate products tailored in particular for smallholder farmers in stress-prone agroecologies of Latin America.
A digital champion trained by CIMMYT in climate-smart agricultural practices, shares her knowledge with her community (Photo: Moono Mwiinga Sekeleti/CIMMYT)
Zambia’s agricultural sector has long grappled with significant gender disparities, particularly in rural areas where women often face unique barriers to accessing essential agricultural information. Despite playing a critical role in food production, women remain significantly underrepresented as agricultural extension agents, a trend that persists not only in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) but also globally. Changing this narrative demands a coordinated effort from government, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), the private sector and communities to challenge deep-rooted stereotypes about women’s roles and capabilities in agriculture.[1]
The Atubandike approach, a key part of the Southern Africa Accelerated Innovation Delivery Initiative (AID-I) Rapid Delivery Hub, addresses these challenges head on. Through initiatives focusing on gender-inclusive seed systems and agricultural advisories on climate-smart agricultural (CSA) practices, Atubandike is actively working to increase women’s representation among Zambia’s agricultural advisors. By equipping communities with inclusive advisory services and training women and men digital champions, Atubandike is paving the way for a more equitable agricultural future.
This blog delves into the gender biases uncovered during recent community consultations organized by the AID-I Atubandike team in Zambia’s Southern Province across various rural districts, held in November 2023, as well as July 2024.[2] These consultations, aimed at addressing gender and youth stereotypes in agriculture, highlighted Atubandike’s initiatives to reshape the agricultural landscape for women and marginalized groups.
Community dialogues reveal deep-rooted gender biases in advisory access and spring up encouraging perspectives for female advisors
Staying true to the name, Atubandike—meaning “Let’s Chat” in Tonga—the AID-I team implementing the initiative, facilitated community discussions with over 1,700 farmers in Zambia’s Southern Province to explore underlying gender challenges in agriculture. Through these conversations, deep-seated gender biases emerged as a significant barrier. Many female agricultural advisors contend with cultural stereotypes that undermine their leadership and technical skills. As one participant noted, “Women are mostly seen as subordinates to men, so it is only natural that female agricultural advisors are viewed as less capable.” Such remarks highlight the difficult path women often tread to establish their authority in agricultural roles. Unfortunately, this bias isn’t limited to men; some female farmers also expressed a preference for male advisors, sharing the belief that “a fellow woman cannot provide valuable information.”
Women participating during a focus group discussion (Photo: Moono Mwiinga Sekeleti/CIMMYT)
Studies on agricultural extension services confirm that gender disparities in advisory roles severely limit women farmers’ access to timely, high-quality information in SSA and other developing regions. This, in turn, impedes their ability to boost productivity and provide for their families.[3]Agricultural Advisory Services (AAS) are often designed with men as the primary beneficiaries, overlooking the need to make services more accessible and relevant to women. The dominance of male extension agents further exacerbates this issue, especially in societies where cultural norms restrict interactions between women and men outside their immediate family. These societal norms reinforce traditional gender roles, undermining the effectiveness of women as agricultural advisors. As a result, women are often excluded from opportunities that would enable them to fully participate in, and benefit from, agricultural development. This exclusion not only limits their potential but also perpetuates poverty and inequality.
On a positive note, a more nuanced perspective also emerged during the discussions. Some community members recognized the unique strengths that female advisors bring to their work. As one participant observed, “Female advisors are more careful and easier to talk to,” noting that women often prioritize technical knowledge, while men may base advice more on personal experience. This insight provides a glimmer of hope: with increased exposure and trust, farmers could become more receptive to female advisors, recognizing their effectiveness alongside their male colleagues.
A female farmer shares her experience during a CIMMYT visit to her village where farmers were discussing gender youth and social inclusion (Photo: Moono Mwiinga Sekeleti/CIMMYT)
In some settings, women farmers even prefer female advisors, feeling more comfortable discussing issues and having a greater sense of shared experiences. According to a study conducted in Mozambique, women farmers were more likely to be reached as well as learn when agricultural content was delivered by female advisors.[4] This highlights the potential impact of gender-sensitive approaches in improving the efficacy and accessibility of advisory services for women.
Achieving equal footing for women in AAS requires addressing a broader range of barriers. This not only entails efforts to recruit and retain women in these roles but also providing equal opportunities for education and training, as well as developing explicit policies to safeguard women advisors from gender-based discrimination.
Breaking barriers: How Atubandike is transforming AAS
The goal of the Atubandike approach is to identify, understand and dismantle entrenched gender barriers in agriculture. By adopting an innovative and inclusive strategy, this initiative equips both men and women with the tools they need to become digital champions and agricultural advisors, playing pivotal roles in their communities. With a deliberate focus on increasing female representation, Atubandike ensures that at least 50% of these champions are women, amplifying their visibility and influence in the sector.
Central to Atubandike is its emphasis on community engagement through a feedback-driven process. This approach facilitates open dialogue among community members, urging them to confront existing social biases and develop practical solutions. Through these discussions, the initiative fosters collective action aimed at promoting gender equity and social inclusion. Additionally, Atubandike provides comprehensive training on gender, diversity, and inclusion, equipping its digital champions not only with technical knowledge but also with the skills required to challenge and navigate gender biases effectively.
One of the initiative’s most transformative elements is its focus on diverse role models. By ensuring that half of its village-based digital champions are women, Atubandike boosts their digital literacy, agricultural expertise, and standing as leaders and role models within their communities.[5] These women are featured prominently in digital content and on talk shows, reshaping perceptions of women as agricultural leaders and breaking down longstanding negative narratives that have historically sidelined them.
Sustaining Atubandike’s momentum: Community-driven support for female advisors
Community members balanced the discussions by proposing valuable insights and strategies to overcome the deeply rooted stereotypes that challenge female agricultural advisors. Raising community awareness about the value of female advisors emerged as a crucial approach to fostering their acceptance. As one participant emphasized, “More training on gender norms is essential so that the community can become more open-minded.” Others argued that establishing trust in female advisors from the outset could empower them as agents of change: “If we begin by placing our trust in female agricultural advisors, we can encourage other communities to do the same.”
Community leaders were urged to facilitate meetings to address any disrespect toward agricultural advisors, irrespective of gender. A farmer emphasized the necessity of mutual respect, stating, “The community should be encouraged to work cooperatively with their agricultural advisors.”
Participants also highlighted that agricultural advisors must actively demonstrate their competence to build trust. In one community, it was stressed that both female and male advisors “must practice the agricultural technologies they promote so that people can have faith in their competence.” Additionally, participants suggested that advisors wear uniforms to clearly distinguish their professional roles, signaling their commitment to serving the community in an official capacity.
A model for inclusive agricultural development
Atubandike transcends the role of a conventional agricultural advisory initiative; it stands as a beacon of inclusive development, extending its impact across Zambia and setting a model for the region. By delving into the roots of gender bias and driving practical, community-led solutions, Atubandike aligns with the AID-I project’s mission of “delivering with a difference.” Through empowering female digital champions and fostering dialogues on social equity, Atubandike demonstrates that meaningful change is both attainable and sustainable. As a testament to AID-I’s dedication to equitable innovation and resilience, Atubandike is not only reshaping gender norms in Zambia but is also establishing itself as a blueprint for inclusive impact across Southern Africa’s agricultural landscape.
[1] BenYishay, A., Jones, M., Kondylis, F., & Mobarak, A. M. (2020). Gender gaps in technology diffusion. Journal of development economics, 143, 102380.
[2] The informed consent statement and methodology used in the community conversations are available upon request m.fisher@cgiar.org.
[4] Kondylis, F., Mueller, V., Sheriff, G., & Zhu, S. (2016). Do female instructors reduce gender bias in the diffusion of sustainable land management techniques? Experimental evidence from Mozambique. World Development, 78, 436-449.
[5] Lecoutere, E., Spielman, D. J., & Van Campenhout, B. (2023). Empowering women through targeting information or role models: Evidence from an experiment in agricultural extension in Uganda. World Development, 167, 106240.
CIMMYT, through the CGIAR-supported Ukama Ustawi initiative, is supporting women farmers in Zimbabwe to lead the fight against climate change. By adopting climate-smart practices like zero tillage and growing drought-resistant crops such as orange maize, cowpeas, and lab-lab, farmers like Susan Chinyengetere are ensuring food security, generating income, and inspiring others. These techniques not only strengthen resilience against erratic weather but also enable women to balance traditional roles while driving sustainable agriculture. With access to affordable seeds, mechanization, and strong farmer networks, CIMMYT is fostering lasting solutions to climate adaptation across Zimbabwe and beyond.
CIMMYT is happy to announce five new, improved tropical maize hybrids that are now available for uptake by public and private sector partners, especially those interested in marketing or disseminating hybrid maize seed across Southern Africa and similar agro-ecologies in other regions. NARES and seed companies are hereby invited to apply for licenses to pursue national release, scale-up seed production, and deliver these maize hybrids to farming communities.
The deadline for submitting applications to be considered during the first round of allocations is 10 January 2025. Applications received after that deadline will be considered during subsequent rounds of product allocations.
The newly available CIMMYT maize hybrids were identified through rigorous, years-long trialing and a stage-gate advancement process which culminated in the 2023/24 Southern Africa Regional On-Farm Trials. The products were found to meet the stringent performance and farmer acceptance criteria for CIMMYT’s breeding pipelines that are designed to generate products tailored especially for smallholder farmers in stress-prone agroecologies of Southern Africa.
At the heart of the agricultural sector, grain off-takers/processors play a crucial role in ensuring that farmers have access to quality seeds that can increase productivity and improve livelihoods. One such processor, AgriNet in Uganda, led by Paul Nyande is deeply involved in managing the complex dynamics of seed and grain production, market demand and variety turnover making a significant impact on both the farming community and the wider agricultural market.
AgriNet is known for its role in grain and legume markets. The company buys a range of grains and legumes, including sorghum, finger millet, soybeans, and maize. After buying these commodities from farmers, the company adds value by processing and packaging them for a diverse market. Their customers range from markets that demand raw grain to high-end consumers who buy blended flour for products such as porridge. AgriNet operates its own milling facility, enabling it to efficiently meet the needs of these different markets efficiently.
Variety turnover is central to the processor’s work. Over time, crop varieties that have been in use for 30 or 40 years become less relevant as new research leads to the development of improved varieties. These newer varieties are better suited to evolving market needs, offering traits that align with current preferences for drought tolerance, disease resistance, and higher yields.
Paul Nyande leads AgriNet, a company involved in managing seed and grain production (Photo: Marion Aluoch/CIMMYT)
“We have definitely seen situations where the market asked for a particular variety, and we have worked with research institutions such as National Semi-Arid Resources Research Institute (NaSARRI) to fulfill that demand. This collaboration has led to shifts in what seed companies produce to keep pace with changing agricultural conditions and market needs,” explains the processor.
For example, through stakeholders’ interactions, AgriNet worked with NaSARRI, to communicate the market’s needs for crops such as maize and sorghum. NaSARRI produced foundation seeds based on these requirements, which the processor then marketed and distributed to specific farmers for production of certified seed that was given to grain producers. However, managing seed demand isn’t always straightforward, especially since the market can change rapidly.
“We’ve had instances where the market suddenly surged with high demand for sorghum seeds, but we couldn’t meet it,” says Paul. “Sometimes these opportunities arrive unexpectedly, and we’re not fully prepared to supply the required volumes.” Paul notes that they still need to promote and improve productivity, as there are gaps in farming practices that hinder maximum yields. One persistent challenge is Striga, a parasitic weed that significantly reduces cereal yields. To tackle this, Paul promotes crop rotation and integration, to help farmers manage such issues.
Despite these challenges, AgriNet has made strategic efforts to manage the risks associated with seed production. By working closely with partners like NaSARRI and using foundation seed, they have been able to balance supply and demand. The processor typically manages seed for one or two generations before reintroducing new varieties to keep up with changing market conditions.
Paul with the CIMMYT and NaSARRI team at his office during their visit to learn more about AgriNet (Photo: Marion Aluoch/CIMMYT)
The role of technology and partnerships
A key part of AgriNet’s work is maintaining a robust supply chain. Using digital platforms, they have developed a system to profile farmers, track training sessions, monitor input distribution and communicate with farmers in real time via SMS. “We can send out information about market prices, weather updates, or available seeds. It’s a great tool, but maintaining the platform requires significant resourcesto maintain the platform,” says the processor.
AgriNet currently works with around 2,000 farmers groups and have also developed an agent network to engage with these groups more effectively. Each agent works with multiple farmer groups, facilitating sales, input distribution, and grain purchases. This structure not only ensures efficient operations but also creates accountability by holding agents responsible for managing the process.
However, one of the biggest challenges facing processors is capacity. They need to expand their storage and processing facilities to take in more grain, especially during the rainy season. Without sufficient storage and drying facilities, their ability to process large volumes of grain is limited, which in turn affects their ability to meet market demand.
Balancing seed and grain markets
Paul emphasizes the difference between seed and grain. “For grain, we don’t face many issues. We can store it for a long time by fumigating it and keeping it safe. But seeds are different—you can’t keep them for long. They need to be used within a specific timeframe.” This dynamic adds complexity to the seed business, especially when the market shows a sudden spike in demand.
Pricing is another challenge. “We used to think about getting seeds cheaply—from research and then to farmers. But there are costs involved, and you have to consider the seed market carefully and how it compares with others,” he says. It’s important to find the right balance between affordable prices for farmers and maintaining sustainable business operations.
The way forward: Expanding capacity and supporting farmers
Paul is focused on expanding AgriNet’s storage and processing capabilities to better manage the supply chain and take in more grain during peak seasons. Increasing their capacity would allow them to meet the growing market demand more effectively.
There’s also a strong need to support smallholder farmers, particularly in terms of access to quality seed. “We need to ensure that farmers have access to quality inputs at affordable prices,” he emphasizes. “Subsidizing seeds or finding sustainable ways to produce them for the most vulnerable farmers could encourage the adoption of improved varieties, which would increase yields and incomes.”
Paul also acknowledges that improving farming practices is critical to achieving higher productivity. While they have good seed varieties available, the challenge lies in ensuring that farmers follow the correct management practices to fully realize the potential of these seeds.
AgriNet’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. The company has been recognized as one of Uganda’s top 100 medium enterprises for 2017/2018 and 2018/2019, a testament to its commitment to quality, innovation, and market responsiveness. This recognition highlights AgriNet’s ability to navigate the complex agricultural landscape while continuously striving to improve its operations and support the farming community.
In its mission to boost agricultural productivity, AgriNet benefits from key partnerships with NaSARRI, which works in collaboration with CIMMYT, through the Accelerated Varietal Improvement and Seed Systems in Africa (AVISA) project, to ensure farmers have access to improved seed varieties. By aligning research with market demands and processor capacity, CIMMYT and NaSARRI are helping to bridge the gap between innovation and practical solutions that directly benefit farmers.
On the lush soils of Uganda, four farmers are using awareness creation demonstration plots to showcase the performance of improved varieties of groundnut, sorghum, and finger millet and their impact on transforming transform livelihoods.
Not only are these farmers improving their yields, but they are also inspiring their neighbours to adopt more resilient and climate-smart crops as part of a larger collaboration initiative between the National Semi-Arid Resources Research Institute (NaSARRI) and CIMMYT through the Accelerated Varietal Improvement and Seed Systems in Africa (AVISA) project. The AVISA project, funded by BMGF, aims to improve food security and resilience in the drylands of Uganda and other eight countries in eastern and southern Africa (Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique, South Sudan, Zambia, and Zimbabwe). The efforts of these four farmers in Uganda highlight the importance of demonstration plots as a powerful tool for creating awareness and promoting transformational agricultural technologies like improved crop varieties and other recommended agronomic practices.
Dennis Obua, a farmer from Teyawo village, has embraced improved, drought-tolerant varieties of ground nuts and finger millet (Photo: Marion Aluoch/CIMMYT)
Demonstration plots serve as practical, hands-on learning sites, where farmers can observe the performance of improved crop varieties under farming conditions in their localities. Apart fromdemonstrating crop performance, these demonstration plotsalso serve as sources of seed for the farmers, which when selected can be grown in bigger plots in subsequent seasons targeting seed production. This ensures that seed of the target crop varieties are available to local farmers. Through these demonstration plots, farmers not only witness firsthandimproved yields,but farmersalso make informed decisions for adoption of specific varieties for their environments toimproveproductivity, food security and resilience, especially in regions vulnerable to climate change. They also providea platform for knowledgesharing, as farmers can interact with other farmers, researchers and extension agentsto enhance uptake of practices that lead to success.
Farmers Driving Variety Adoption through Demonstration Plots
In Lira District, Dennis Obua, a farmer from Teyawo village, has embraced improved varieties of drought-tolerant crops. His journey into farming began in 2018 after observing the challenges faced by local farmers due to inconsistent rainfall. He started small, with a handful of finger millet seed obtained from NaSSARI, which he multiplied and shared with neighbouring farmers. With support from the seed systems unit at NaSSARI, Dennis now manages demonstration plots of groundnut, sorghum, and finger millet and promotes these crops in his community.
In the current season of 2024 (Mar-Jul), Dennis planted three improved groundnut varieties — SERENUT 8R, SERENUT 11 and SERENUT 14, which were released in 2011. In his assessment, his preferred variety is SERENUT 14 as it yields about 14 to 16 bags per acre. The variety is drought tolerant, disease resistant, especially rot and rosette, produces a good yield and also has a good number of pods. Under demonstration are two finger millet varieties, NAROMIL 2 and SEREMI 2 (U15) though he prefers NAROMIL 2 (released in 2017) for its drought tolerance, high yield and red colour of the grain. His success has inspired many local farmers to adopt these improved varieties, with many seeking seeds to grow on their own plots. The seed demand generated from these demonstration plots is communicated by the host farmer to the research institute, which works on making the seed available through local entities. The host farmer keeps records of seed requests and preferred varieties from farmers visiting the demonstrations.
Bagonza Simon oversees demonstration plots, which serve as a hub for agricultural learning, showcasing groundnut, finger millet, and sorghum varieties (Photo: Marion Aluoch/CIMMYT)
At the Kihola Demonstration Centre, the farm manager, Bagonza Simon oversees demonstration plots that serve as a hub for agricultural learning. Working with NaSARRI, Simon has introduced improved varieties of groundnut (SERENUT 8R, SERENUT 11, and SERENUT 14), sorghum (NAROSORGH 2 and SESO 1), and finger millet (NAROMIL 2 and SEREMI 2). Farmers visit the center to observe these varieties and learn about their benefits. The selection of preferred sorghum varieties by farmers appears to be influenced by the degree of bird damage observed across different types. For example, the white-grained sorghum (SESO 1) suffered significant bird damage, which led farmers to naturally favor the red-grained NAROSORG-2, released in 2017. In addition to being less susceptible to bird damage, NAROSORG-2 also demonstrates drought and striga tolerance, further enhancing its appeal among farmers.
Simon has been particularly impressed by the attributes of the groundnut variety SERENUT 8R, which has performed well despite the challenging weather conditions observed in the season characterized by very erratic rainfall patterns. His demonstration plots have become a beacon of hope and innovation, inspiring local farmers to adopt drought-tolerant crop varieties. Farmer to farmer seed exchanges are common in this locality due to seed shortages and he therefore plans to share seed from his plots to interested farmers and is working with NaSARRI to expand seed availability across the region.
Steven Odel from Kaloka village has drought-tolerant varieties of sorghum, finger millet, and groundnut in his demonstration plot (Photo: Marion Aluoch/CIMMYT)
In Bukedea District, farmers Steven Odel from Kaloka village and Nelson Ekurutu from Kasoka village are also leading the way with their demonstration plots. Both are testing drought-tolerant varieties of sorghum, finger millet, and groundnut. While Steven encountered challenges with his sorghum crop due to midge attacks, he has had great success with NAROSORG-2, which he describes as having better germination and faster maturity, and therefore enabling the plants to escape midge attack.
Steven is also growing red finger millet variety SEREMI2, which is very popular for its early maturity and high market demand for making porridge and local beer. He regularly hosts farmers on his plots, sharing his knowledge and experience.
Nelson Ekurutu is trialling three new groundnut varieties—SERENUT 8, SERENUT 11, and SERENUT 14—and is optimistic about their performance. His experience with finger millet, particularly the red variety- SEREMI2, has been positive, noting its fast growth and high demand in local markets. Nelson also grows red sorghum (NAROSORG 2), which he prefers for its resistance to bird damage. These demonstration plots provide a platform for Steven and Nelson to test new varieties in their local context, helping them and others understand what works best in their locality.
Nelson Ekurutu is trialing new varieties of ground nut, finger millet, and sorghum (Photo: Marion Aluoch/CIMMYT)
Increasing awareness and seed availability
Utilizing these demonstrations to bring new varieties closer to farmers can further accelerate seed uptake and demand. Farmer-managed demonstrations in their own environments ensure that variety selections align with local preferences and adaptability. Farmers who consistently host these demonstrations build trust in the varieties within their communities, while also creating opportunities for local seed businesses to explore. Strengthening the linkages between research institutions, farmers, and seed producers is crucial for ensuring the rapid adoption of new and improved varieties. Additionally, the distribution of small seed packs at scale is essential to enable more farmers to test these varieties on their own farms, ensuring wider adoption and transforming livelihoods in these communities.
