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How Crops to End Hunger is transforming CGIAR crop breeding from the ground up

Written by dmedina on . Posted in Blogs.

When crop breeding succeeds, the impact is dramatic: improved varieties reach farmers, productivity increases, and resilience to climate change and disease improves. But breeding success doesn’t happen by chance. It relies on modern facilities, cutting-edge tools, and the ability to test and select for complex, evolving traits. That’s where Crops to End Hunger (CtEH) comes in. At CGIAR Science Week, the project team and beneficiaries demonstrated how.  

A project designed for exponential impact 

Launched in 2019, CtEH aimed to support the modernization of CGIAR’s crop breeding infrastructure, with support from GIZ, the Gates Foundation, the US government, DFID, and ACIAR. As it nears the end of the most recent two-year GIZ funding cycle, the project has made targeted investments in upgrading breeding station infrastructure, equipping them with advanced tools, building capacity across CGIAR and national breeding teams, and developing the foundational systems needed to accelerate the entire breeding process. 

Supporting CGIAR Centers’ core functions 

At CGIAR Science Week, Bram Govaerts, CIMMYT Director General, explained: “CtEH is crucial for implementing CIMMYT 2030 strategy. Support has increased our breeding capacity for maize, wheat, and newly added dryland crops that complement maize and wheat cropping systems.” 

One example is the Groundnut Biotic Stress Screening Network, established with CtEH support. The network has strengthened the capacity of partners in Uganda and Malawi to screen for groundnut rosette disease; a devastating disease spread by aphids can result in 100% crop loss, with annual losses of over $150 million. The screening network will enable development of resistant varieties. 

In Kenya, a $2.5 million worth infrastructure upgrade at the KALRO–CIMMYT Crop Research Facility in Kiboko, has accelerated breeding cycles. This investment is enabling the development of new varieties tailored to the needs of East African farmers. Drought-tolerant maize varieties developed through work in Kenya and Zimbabwe have expanded dramatically, from just 0.5 million hectares in 2010 to 8.5 million hectares across sub-Saharan Africa today. 

The Kiboko station is also a regional leader in pest and disease resistance. Its advanced screening capabilities for fall armyworm have led to the release of three tolerant maize hybrids, benefiting farmers in Kenya, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Sudan, and Ghana. The development of maize varieties resistant to maize lethal necrosis further demonstrates the station’s critical role in enhancing food security across the region. 

Operational improvements: more than bricks and mortar 

CtEH isn’t just about infrastructure; it’s also about operational transformation which profoundly change the breeding work. For instance, as Gustavo Teixeira explains, “The installation of reliable irrigation systems, one of CtEH’s key priorities, improves breeding efficiency in several ways. It enables off-season trials, allowing breeders to conduct multiple generations per year. It promotes plot control, ensuring uniformity across trial plots and data quality. Finally, it improves the ability to breed for drought tolerance.” 

In Ghana, Maxwell Asante of CSIR-CRI described how CtEH brought crop-neutral upgrades that have encouraged teams to strategically plan and align resources, enabled cost attribution to specific breeding programs, improving accountability, and fostered cross-location collaboration by making centralized services possible.  

These operational improvements are helping CGIAR and national systems move toward truly modern breeding programs that can operate with greater precision, speed, and coordination. 

Building for regional collaboration and innovation 

Bram Govaerts also emphasized that collaboration is central to the future of breeding, and that CtEH is helping to make that possible. 

“Strategic collaborations enhance our impact by leveraging diverse resources and expertise, especially through public-private partnerships that scale research and technology transfer for agricultural transformation.” 

Facilities and systems funded by CtEH are helping CGIAR foster cross-disciplinary innovation and strengthen ties with governments, donors, and technology companies. This makes it easier to bridge the gap between research and real-world application – exactly what’s needed to accelerate impact. 

Empowering women in breeding 

Infrastructure improvements under CtEH have considered inclusivity and gender equity. 

Aparna Das, CIMMYT Technical Lead, explained that modernized stations have been upgraded to better support women in breeding roles – such as providing restrooms and expression rooms in remote research stations, often located far from urban centers, which help attract talent. 

Why does this matter? Women breeders bring valuable perspectives, particularly in identifying gender-relevant traits, like cooking time, seed size, and ease of harvesting. Diverse, balanced breeding teams also tend to be more dynamic and innovative, leading to better science and more relevant products for farmers. 

Targeting the right traits 

Breeding for traits farmers need starts with the ability to test and measure those traits under real-world conditions. This can require specialized equipment. 

Maxwell Asante emphasized that this is where CtEH makes a difference: 

“Testing for traits is fundamental. And now, we’re not just selecting for yield – we’re breeding for disease resistance, climate resilience, cooking quality, and more. The only way to do this efficiently is through modern breeding infrastructure and processes.” 

Modern breeding enables scientists to combine multiple traits in a single variety and identify the best candidates with greater accuracy and confidence. This is made possible through CtEH investments in equipment and data analytics, such as Bioflow, the CtEH-funded breeding analytics pipeline developed for CGIAR and its partners. 

Long-term impact through smart design 

What makes CtEH unique is its sustainability-by-design approach. The project was structured to build long-lasting capacity and to leverage investments from across CGIAR Initiatives, amplifying both the quality of upgrades and their outcomes. 

Whether it’s enabling year-round trials, supporting new partnerships, or empowering a more diverse generation of breeders, CtEH is not just upgrading infrastructure, it’s also reshaping CGIAR and partners’ breeding. 

As CGIAR continues to respond to climate, nutrition, and food security challenges, projects like CtEH are making sure we have the tools, systems, and people in place to breed for tomorrow – starting today. 

To learn more about Crops to End Hunger, check out other stories here.

Fidelia González Galindo, a rural woman who challenges limits and transforms the countryside

Written by dmedina on . Posted in Blogs.

From the Sierra Norte of Puebla, Fidelia González Galindo has built her story with determination and courage. At 48 years old, González Galindo is responsible for the Cuautempan Research Platform in the state of Puebla and is part of CIMMYT’s Hub Valles Altos. Her work focuses on improving food security and strengthening native maize production—a mission born from her own struggle to access education.

Research platforms, like the one Fidelia coordinates, are spaces where innovative technologies are developed and validated to enhance agricultural production. These platforms explore improved farming practices, efficient soil and water resource management, and strategies for sustainability and food security. Through her work in Cuautempan, Fidelia strives to ensure that these innovations reach rural communities and are adapted to the real needs of women farmers.

Fidelia González Galindo, researcher and head of the Cuatempan Research Platform, discusses strategies to strengthen the participation of rural women in sustainable agricultural production. (Photo: Jenifer Morales/ CIMMYT)

Raised by her grandmother in a community where it was considered normal for women to dedicate themselves to the home and marriage, Fidelia defied these norms—challenging even the authority of the matriarch in her household. With her mother’s support, she pursued a different path, continuing her studies and eventually attending the Autonomous University of Chapingo. There, she faced not only academic challenges but also discrimination due to her Indigenous background and her status as a woman in a male-dominated field. “I never accepted that being a woman was a limitation,” she recalls.

Since returning to her region, Fidelia has tirelessly advocated for the autonomy of rural women, who often take charge of farming while men migrate in search of work. She has witnessed firsthand the challenges they face: limited access to quality seeds, financial constraints, physical disadvantages in labor-intensive tasks, the constant struggle to feed their families, scarce training opportunities, and the overwhelming burden of balancing household responsibilities with agricultural production. “Many times, women have to find additional jobs to support their families, which takes them away from improving their farming systems,” she explains.

To address the many challenges faced by rural women, Fidelia promotes knowledge-sharing on sustainable agricultural practices and works to empower women in decision-making processes. She has helped create support networks among women farmers, facilitated knowledge exchange, and organized training sessions with flexible schedules to accommodate family responsibilities. She also advocates for municipal and government support to fund productive projects, enabling women to generate income independently. “Knowledge is power, and if women learn to manage their resources, they can transform their lives and their communities,” she says.

Fidelia shares knowledge on sustainable agricultural production with local farmers, strengthening the role of rural women in decision-making and farm management.
(Photo: Fidelia González)

Fidelia describes rural women as hardworking individuals, proud of their roots and committed to making meaningful changes in their environment. “They are bold women who, when they learn something new, apply it with determination. And the best part is that they don’t keep the knowledge to themselves—they share it with others so that everyone can improve,” she emphasizes. Beyond producing food, these women care deeply about their families’ health, soil conservation, and their children’s future.

Fidelia represents the relentless efforts of rural women who challenge the limits imposed by society. “Farming is not exclusive to men,” she declares with conviction. Her story is a testament to resilience, learning, and transformation. Through her work, she cultivates not only maize but also hope, knowledge, and a more equitable future for women in agriculture—proving that true change begins when women are empowered to lead from the land they know best.

New Breakthrough in Wheat Blast Resistance: A Novel Non-2NS QTL Identified

Written by dmedina on . Posted in Blogs.

A newly published study has identified a significant breakthrough in the ongoing battle against wheat blast: a novel quantitative trait locus (QTL), named Qwb.cim-7D, located on the long arm of chromosome 7D and derived from Aegilops tauschii, offers stable and moderate resistance to wheat blast—independently of the widely used 2NS translocation.

Wheat blast, caused by Magnaporthe oryzae pathotype Triticum (MoT), is a rapidly spreading disease threatening wheat production, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. First detected in Brazil in 1985, the disease has since caused devastating yield losses—up to 100% in severe cases. Its transboundary spread, including recent incursions in Bangladesh and Zambia, has intensified international concerns about food security, especially among vulnerable smallholder farming communities. Control through chemical means has proven unreliable, placing even greater emphasis on the development and deployment of resistant wheat cultivars.

Fig. 1 Global incidence of wheat blast with years of its first identification indicated for the affected countries

For years, wheat breeders have relied on a single major source of genetic resistance—the 2NS/2AS translocation from Aegilops ventricosa. While initially effective, recent field observations—particularly in Brazil—suggest that wheat blast pathogens are evolving to overcome this resistance. Despite extensive efforts, previous studies have failed to identify any non-2NS QTLs with both significant and stable effects across environments in field trials.

Fig. 2 Contrasted wheat blast reactions between BWMRI Gom 3 (left, a 2NS carrier) and BARI Gom 26 (right, a non-2NS carrier)

A New Genetic Solution for Blast Resistance

In a recently published study entitled “A novel QTL on chromosome 7D derived from Aegilops tauschii confers moderate field resistance to wheat blast”, CIMMYT’s wheat pathology team and collaborators reported the identification of a novel and consistent QTL—Qwb.cim-7D—which provides significant resistance to wheat blast independent of the 2NS translocation.

The donor bread wheat line, Gladius*2/KU 2097, inherited its resistance from the resistant Ae. tauschii accession ‘KU-2097’. Field experiments were conducted at two Precision Phenotyping Platforms (PPP) in Bolivia (Quirusillas and Okinawa) and one PPP in Bangladesh (Jashore), under artificially inoculated conditions—ensuring a robust evaluation of resistance. The QTL was mapped to the long arm of chromosome 7D, where it explained between 7.7% and 50.6% of the phenotypic variation across different environments. This is a significant finding, as previous studies identified non-2NS resistance loci with typically small effects (less than 10%) and inconsistent performance. In contrast, Qwb.cim-7D is the first moderate-effect QTL to demonstrate stable resistance across multiple field conditions.

To facilitate its adoption in breeding pipelines, researchers successfully converted the flanking DArTseq markers into KASP markers—enabling more efficient marker-assisted selection.

Importantly, Qwb.cim-7D provides approximately half the resistance effect of 2NS, highlighting its value as a complementary resistance factor. When deployed through gene pyramiding strategies alongside 2NS and Rmg8, this new QTL could help breeders develop varieties with stronger and more durable resistance to the evolving wheat blast pathogen.

This breakthrough marks a turning point in global wheat blast resistance breeding. It addresses the urgent need to diversify the genetic basis of resistance and equips breeders with a viable new tool to safeguard wheat yields. As wheat blast continues to threaten food security in key regions, the introgression of Qwb.cim-7D into breeding programs offers a promising path toward enhanced crop resilience and improved farmer protection.

Double the Harvest, Double the Income: Intercropping for Yield, Income and Security

Written by dmedina on . Posted in Blogs.

In the quiet villages of eastern India, a transformation is unfolding—led by smallholder farmers and powered by the science of intercropping.

“I got a good price for the cabbages, and I’m hopeful maize will do just as well. Look at it—it’s healthy and thriving,” says Nirmala Devi with a proud smile. At 45, Nirmala tends her small farm in Butijhari village, Kishanganj, Bihar.

She is one of 20 women in her village redefining farming through knowledge-sharing, new skills, and small-scale entrepreneurship.

In her maize field, Nirmala Devi proudly displays the remaining cabbages from her intercrop harvest, now set aside for livestock fodder after sale and household consumption (Photo: Nima Chodon/CIMMYT)

“For the past two rabi (winter) seasons, we’ve been practicing intercropping with maize, Nirmala says, gesturing toward her fields. “We not only sell what we grow – cabbage, garden pea, beans, spinach, etc – but also exchange it among ourselves, depending on what we need at home.”

This approach has brought more than just additional income. It’s improving household nutrition, providing animal fodder, and increasing land productivity by growing two crops in the same plot during the rabi season.

Growing Together

Not only in villages of Kishanganj, into the villages of Coochbehar and Malda in West Bengal, farmers are seeing similar results. Now in their second year with the CIMMYT-led intercropping project, they are seeing substantial benefits—improved yields, additional income, and greater resilience against climate and or the failure of any single crop.

While intercropping isn’t new, this approach is different. CIMMYT and its partners, supported by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), are promoting additive intercropping in wide-row staple crops like maize across India, Bangladesh and Bhutan.

Swaraj Dutta from Dr. Kalam Agriculture College under Bihar Agriculture University, working on the project, explains how this works: “We help farmers adjust the way they plant maize—either 60-60 cm spacing in single rows or a paired-row system at 30-90 cm. Between these rows, short-duration vegetables like cabbage, spinach, or legumes thrive early in the season.”

Maize and More

“The intensive cultivation of rice and maize (and previously wheat) is placing significant stress on natural resources and is becoming increasingly unsustainable in the face of growing climate change challenges. Yet, many farmers continue with these practices, even as returns diminish, due to a fear of diversifying,” explains Biplab Mitra of Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya (UBKV), the university is supporting the intercropping project in Coochbehar and Malda districts of West Bengal.

“Traditionally, maize has been grown densely and often as a monocrop following rice in these regions. However, maize’s adaptability to both kharif and rabi seasons presents an opportunity to shift away from this unsustainable pattern”, added Mitra.  Through intercropping maize with vegetables during the rabi season farmers are now exploring more diversified and resilient farming systems that reduce pressure on resources and improve income potential.

“We used to grow only maize after rice,” says Santos Deb from Dinhata village, Coochbehar, standing proudly beside his wife Sochirani Deb. “But now, following the advice of scientists from UBKV, we intercrop. Two different crops, one cereal and one vegetable from the same field in the same season—that’s something we never attempted.”

On just 800 square meters, Barman adopted paired-row planting and added vegetables between maize rows. After covering input costs, he earned an additional ₹15,000–17,000 (US$180–200) for the vegetables, gained fresh food for the family, and produced fodder for their livestock. “This has been very rewarding for us. I have started growing in all my plots now,” he beams. “We’ll keep intercropping every rabi season throughout our lives.”

Intercropping offers a crucial buffer against climate-related risks by providing farmers a valuable source of additional income during the rabi season. Adverse weather events such as high winds, untimely late-season rains or storms often cause maize to lodge, resulting in significant yield losses and reduced income. By adopting intercropping, farmers can cover production costs earlier in the season and minimize exposure to climate-related economic losses.

 

Farmer Santos Deb and his wife Sochirani stand on their intercropped farm, where they grew vegetables alongside maize to boost both income and household consumption (Photo: Nima Chodon/CIMMYT)

Some farmers, like Kamal Ganesh from Chapati village in Kishanganj, see intercropping as a form of security against unpredictable harvests. “I grew cabbage and cauliflower under the project. Due to unavoidable circumstances, I was delayed in applying fertilizer and irrigating my maize crop, so the maize yield may be poor this harvest. But I’ve already earned a profit from the vegetables. Having a second crop in the same field acts as a safety net—if one fails, the other can still bring returns,” he explains.

Looking Ahead

Researchers assert that the project’s introduction of vegetable intercropping with maize offers new opportunities for diversification and resilience in the agriculture sector already stressed by climate change.

For many farmers, this is just the beginning. Alison Laing, leading the intercropping project at CIMMYT, shares her optimism: “This is only our second harvest across India, Bangladesh, and Bhutan, and already we’re seeing encouraging results. More and more farmers want to try it next season.”

Intercropping with sugarcane, on-station research trial fields at the Indian Institute for Farming Systems Research (ICAR-IIFSR), Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India (Photo: Nima Chodon /CIMMYT)

Laing noted that further adjustments, including crop selection based on management needs, market value, and nutritional benefits, as well as efficient fertilizer use and market linkages, are being explored by researchers to enhance sustainability and broader adoption. “Apart from maize, we’ve also introduced intercropping in sugarcane fields in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, in collaboration with the Indian Institute for Farming Systems Research (ICAR-IIFSR). We will review and analyse the results from the past two years in both maize and sugarcane practices to better understand farmers’ needs and support wider adoption,” she added.

Wide Row, Additive INTERCROPPING Project, led by CIMMYT and funded by ACIAR, is a 5-year initiative (launched in 2023) bringing together research institutions and agriculture scientists from India, Bangladesh and Bhutan to help smallholder farmers boost yields, increase their resilience to climate change and improve nutrition.  

With Innovations, They Protect Maize Biodiversity

Written by dmedina on . Posted in Blogs.

Rural women in Quintana Roo have been guardians of maize for generations. Today, with sustainable innovations and the support of technicians like Esmeralda Andrade, they are strengthening their role in food security and biodiversity conservation.

For generations, native maize has been at the heart of food systems and cultural identity in the Mayan communities of Quintana Roo. The women of these communities, heirs to the legacy of Mesoamerican societies that shaped native maize, have long selected and conserved seeds, ensuring the continuity of the varieties best adapted to their environments. In their hands, maize is not just a crop—it is a legacy.

Women from Quintana Roo during a workshop held as part of the project between the state government and CIMMYT (Photo: Yucatán Peninsula Hub)

Today, however, this legacy faces growing threats. High production costs, competition with less diverse farming systems, and increasing pressure from climate change are putting the biodiversity of native maize at risk. In response to these challenges, the Food and Nutritional Security for Rural Communities in the State of Quintana Roo project—promoted by the state government and CIMMYT—is working to strengthen agricultural productivity, seed conservation, and the sustainability of maize-based systems. At the center of these efforts are women.

In Quintana Roo, 74% of agricultural production units use native or criollo maize seeds, making the state a stronghold of maize biodiversity. However, data from INEGI’s 2022 Agricultural Census also reveal that only 17.9% of these units are headed by women. Despite their traditional role in conserving seeds, managing storage, and selling in local markets, the gender gap in agriculture remains significant.

To help close this gap, the project has prioritized training for women farmers—equipping them with scientific knowledge and technical tools to improve crop productivity and market access. These initiatives provide spaces for women to exchange seeds, learn improved agronomic practices, and build stronger support networks. Community seed houses and native maize multiplication plots have been established to support these efforts.

Esmeralda Andrade, one of the project’s technicians, promotes the integration of traditional knowledge with scientific approaches. “Many of our producers grow native maize, and use the lunar calendar to guide planting and management activities. They’ve also adopted innovations like optimal planting arrangements, seed treatment, and agroecological pest management,” says Esmeralda, highlighting how innovation can strengthen tradition.

Participants in one of the workshops to promote sustainable practices for the conservation of native maize (Photo: Yucatán Peninsula Hub)

This blend of knowledge strengthens food security and reduces the vulnerability of communities to climate change. “One of the key changes we’ve seen is that farmers now have a more sustainable outlook. They understand the importance of soil conservation and the quality of their agricultural products,” she adds.

The project has also been a platform for breaking down gender barriers in agriculture. As a female technician, Esmeralda has faced the challenge of working in communities where agricultural decisions have traditionally been made by men. “In the area where I work, due to customs and traditions, it is mostly men who attend meetings and workshops, so it can be difficult to engage with them,” she explains. However, the support of community leaders has been key to building trust and fostering inclusion.

Thanks to these efforts, more and more women producers are increasingly participating in decisions related to agricultural production and family food security. “The impact of women technicians is clear. Rural women are participating more in production activities and financial education. This fosters teamwork in rural households, where women are now making decisions—not just helping in the fields,” says Esmeralda.

The Food and Nutritional Security for Rural Communities in the State of Quintana Roo project not only aims to improve productivity and market access—it is also planting a seed of change in the role of women in agriculture. By providing them with tools to strengthen their role as guardians of maize, it is also enhancing their economic autonomy, community participation, and capacity to shape the future of agriculture in the region.

Producer during a grain moisture measurement activity (Photo: Yucatán Peninsula Hub)

“My message to other women interested in becoming technicians or leaders in the agri-food sector is: don’t forget your worth and your abilities. Believe in your value—and above all, know that you’re not alone. You are supported every step of the way. There’s still a long road ahead,” Esmeralda concludes.

With projects like this, the rural women of Quintana Roo are showing that the best way to ensure the future of maize is through training, organization, and empowerment. In their hands, the legacy of native maize will continue to flourish.

Reinventing mechanization for Southern Zambia’s drylands: The story of Joe Akombaetwa

Written by dmedina on . Posted in Blogs.

Joe Akombaetwa shows the improved no-till multi-crop planter fitted with a T-bar and furrow kits (Photo: CIMMYT)

In Dumba Camp, a small farming community in Mazabuka District, Joe Akombaetwa is proving that even in the face of unreliable rains and poor soils, small shifts in how farmers work the land can make all the difference. A farmer since 1992, Joe has lived through the growing impacts of climate change, its frequent shocks to the rain-fed systems, and the high risks it brings to farming families in Zambia’s Southern Province. For the past five years, he has worked as one of the earliest mechanization service providers (SPs) under the European Union-funded Sustainable Intensification of Smallholder Farming Systems in Zambia (SIFAZ) project. As a SIFAZ service provider, Joe acquired a set of machinery, including a two-wheel tractor, a trailer, a multi-crop thresher, and a sheller in 2021. Since then, he has been offering paid mechanization services to farmers in his community. But more than a service provider, Joe is an innovator, a machinery fabricator, and a businessman, creating tailor-made climate-smart mechanization solutions with the support of the SIFAZ project, responding directly to the challenges faced by farmers in his community.

Grounding innovation in reality

Joe’s innovations aren’t conceived in a lab—they’re forged in the field, shaped by the lived realities of his fellow smallholder farmers. One of his earliest breakthroughs came when he collaborated with SIFAZ engineers to design a T-bar to modify the Chinese single-row, no-till multi-crop planters into a double-row planter for a two-wheel tractor, allowing simultaneous planting of two rows instead of just one.

The original single-row planters, while functional, were slow and inefficient. “We wanted to save time and get the work done faster,” Joe explains. “So, we created the T-bar so that two planters could work together in tandem.”

But the innovation didn’t stop there. Joe received feedback from the farmers on the issue of high side separation between the seed and fertilizer openers on the planter. This high side separation of about 120 mm might be useful to reduce seed burning in an irrigated system for which the planter was developed, but Joe and his client farmers in the rain-fed system noticed reduced early plant growth, evidently resulting from delayed nutrient access by young seedlings of the crops. Further, the furrow covered by the press wheels of the planter was not optimum (leaving some seeds uncovered with soil), leading to germination failures.

With his own hands and tools, together with the SIFAZ engineers, Joe redesigned the seed placement system by better aligning the seed and fertilizer openers (with 50 mm side separation) and developing a flexible seed-covering kit fitted before each press wheel on the planter. These modifications addressed what agronomists refer to as “placement efficiency”, but for Joe, it was simply about “getting the seed and fertilizer placed close to each other for the plants to access the fertilizer early and firmly cover the seeds for optimum emergence.” To further improve performance, he added a balancing bar to help stabilize the planter across uneven ground, making the machine more practical for Southern Province’s uneven terrains and varying soil textures.

Joe demonstrates his two-wheel tractor mini boom sprayer to the CIMMYT mechanization team (Photo: CIMMYT)

Bridging science with farmer-led solutions

Joe’s hands-on creativity is not new. Back in 2010, he was part of the team that co-developed an animal-drawn ripper, a widely adopted tool that aligns with Conservation Agriculture (CA) principles by reducing soil disturbance.

With a background in blacksmithing and metal fabrication from Kasisi, and early career exposure to seed certification at ACCI in Chilanga, Joe has long moved between formal agriculture and on-the-ground adaptation. Joe is aware of declining draft animals and the aging of the farmers in Zambia, which adds to the challenges faced by smallholder farmers. He sees a declining interest of rural youths in agriculture who do not want to walk behind the beasts or do labor-intensive manual work. Observing the ease with which large-scale commercial farmers operate rippers and boom sprayers, Joe wondered, “Why not adapt this to smallholder needs?”

Joe designed a double-row ripper and a mini boom sprayer for use with a two-wheel tractor. Compared to the traditional animal-drawn single-row rippers or the knapsack sprayers, the two-wheel tractor double-row ripper saves not only time, costs, and drudgery, but also makes farming interesting. “In just ten minutes, I can finish spraying a 16 m by 39 m field,” he says. It’s a leap in efficiency, and for farmers, who often juggle time, labor, and resource constraints, it’s a game-changer! Joe has sold a few rippers and boom sprayers to his neighboring farmers and different projects. The demand for the machinery is on the rise, which encourages him as a rural manufacturer.

Business with a purpose

Joe isn’t only an innovator; he’s also a sharp businessman. From ripping and planting to boom spraying and shelling maize, his mechanization services are in high demand among farmers in and around Dumba Camp. “Ripping has been the most profitable,” he notes. “Almost every farmer now wants it because of the sustainable farming practices introduced by SIFAZ.” He charges based on plot size and crop type, typically around ZMW 200–450 per hectare (approximately US$7–16) for services like no-till planting. But he also knows the realities farmers face. “Sometimes, I negotiate. I don’t want the price to scare away the farmers.” Demonstration days and field shows are his marketing lifeline. From the Cotton Development Trust-organized mechanization field days to local radio promotions, Joe has built a network of trust and visibility. He’s become a go-to name in the Dumba Camp and beyond.

Joe stands with his 80-year-old client, who, thanks to hiring the no-till soybean planting service, is able to keep his family farm running despite his children’s absence. (Photo: Md A Matin, CIMMYT)

Staying afloat in tough seasons

Last season, the El Niño-induced drought was a huge blow in farmers’ fields. Poor and uneven rainfall and economic strain slashed demand for mechanization services. But Joe stayed afloat by leaning on his farmer instincts. He didn’t sell off all his harvest, but instead, he stored 100 bags of maize and sold another 100 bags to have money for living. That food sovereignty, paired with diversified income from shelling and ripping, kept his business breathing through the drought.

A legacy in the making

Behind the machines and modifications is a father of five, two of whom are already following in his footsteps, bringing civil engineering skills into the family’s growing innovation portfolio. It’s a quiet generational shift powered by resilience, knowledge sharing, and an openness to adapt. Joe’s story reminds us that the future of farming isn’t only shaped by distant policies or global climate models, but also built, welded, and tested in the fields of Southern Zambia, where farmer-innovators like Joe bridge the gap between science and local adaptation.

Rising from adversity: The inspiring success of Asma and Tasin’s engineering workshop

Written by dmedina on . Posted in Blogs.

Asma Akter and her daughter, Tasin Fahariya, have emerged as inspiring examples of resilient agriculture-based light engineering (ABLE) entrepreneurs in Bangladesh. Their journey began in the face of tragedy when Asma, at 38, lost her husband to COVID-19. As the proprietor of Belal Engineering Workshop, a family business started by her late husband 32 years ago, Asma took on the responsibility of running the manufacturing enterprise.

The initial challenges were daunting. Customers lost trust in the company’s ability to deliver quality products on time under the leadership of a woman. Even their experienced workshop staff felt insecure about their job prospects under the new management. Financial institutions were hesitant to provide loans to a woman-led business, making it difficult to purchase raw materials for production.

However, their fortunes changed with the connections they made. Tasin received training in Financial Management, Digital Marketing, and Technical Drawing and Design. These courses enhanced her professional skills and boosted her confidence to lead the business effectively. They secured a loan of over US$4,300 from Gram Unnayan Kendra (GUK), addressing their capital needs.

They connected with dealers across Bangladesh, significantly expanding their customer base. They branded their products through smart packaging and organizational branding with logos, which helped them compete more effectively in the market.

As a result of these interventions, Asma and Tasin’s business has seen remarkable growth. They’ve expanded from 10 dealer points to 14, adding new geographical regions to their network. Their order volume and sales have increased tremendously. The mother-daughter duo’s achievements go beyond financial gains—their success underscores the importance of diverse viewpoints in enhancing and optimizing manufacturing processes.

Asma Akter at Belal Engineering Workshop in Bogura

(Photos: CIMMYT)

Sowing knowledge, Reaping impact: Lydia’s journey from trial farmer to community leader in Monze, Zambia

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Lydia Siankwede explaining her mother trial demonstration to agronomists, sharing insights and results (photo: CIMMYT)

An early morning walk across the fields in Zambia’s Southern province, one is met with maize fields infested with fall armyworm. In contrast to last season’s El Nino induced drought, and as we approached Lydia Siankwede’s field, one is met with her thriving maize and legume field, with its deep-green canopy signaling strong growth and optimal soil health in her crop.

Each morning, Lydia tends to her field with an inquisitive mind, clutching her protocol, which serves as a guide for daily tasks. The dew clings to her shoes as she inspects each plot, checking crop performance, scouting for pests, and noting observations in her trial protocol. Yet beneath this plant vigor, a silent threat lurks—fall armyworm, its larvae discreetly feeding on tender maize leaves.

Her field, which hosts a mother trial under the EU-funded Sustainable Intensification of Smallholder Farming Systems in Zambia (SIFAZ) program, is a patchwork of promising technologies. A mother trial is a farmer-managed, researcher-led experiment that serves as a central site for testing a variety of agricultural treatments under controlled conditions.

Mother trials are part of a mother-and-baby trial approach—a participatory research model designed to test and disseminate new farming technologies while involving farmers in the evaluation process. The approach involves mother trials and baby trials. Baby trials are farmer-managed trials conducted across multiple locations, usually in individual farmers’ fields. Each participant chooses a subset of treatments from the mother trial to test in their own field under specific local conditions. In these mother-and-baby trials, science meets farmer reality, and knowledge grows with every season.

Across the Southern Province, mother-and-baby trials are part of a broader research effort to develop crop intensification practices tailored to smallholder farming systems. In Kazungula Camp, where rainfall is low and erratic, the focus has been on integrating livestock and crop systems, rotating maize with fodder legumes like mucuna and lablab. In other communities, experiments are ongoing with integrating soybean into the maize-based cropping systems and intensifying them with pigeon pea and Gliricidia, both leguminous shrubs that provide fodder and enhance soil fertility. Each treatment is carefully monitored across experimental plots over several seasons to assess its effect on yields, soil health, pest pressure, and its longer-term impact in light of a changing climate.

Lydia, a hardworking farmer with 11 hectares of cultivable land, began her journey as a baby trial implementer, testing a single conservation agriculture (CA) practice in her own field. But her passion for learning and strong work ethic quickly set her apart. Within three years, she transitioned to managing a full-scale mother trial, giving her the opportunity to test a wider array and bundle of technologies across a larger plot. Today, Lydia experiments with crop rotations, intercropping, and fodder management—practices designed to boost productivity for humans, soil, and animals; build resilience; and reduce reliance on chemical inputs.

A maize–velvet bean (mucuna) rotation aimed at improving maize yield, soil fertility, and fodder production in Southern Zambia. (Photo: CIMMYT)

What do the agronomic results bring to the table?

Each season, unique by nature, has brought valuable lessons, with promising long-term results. Since 2021, more than 1,200 farmers in Kazungula Camp, including Lydia, have adopted CA-based crop rotations beyond the trials. While yield gains for maize and legumes are not always immediate, economic analyses consistently show that CA systems generate higher returns compared to conventional tillage systems with sole maize cropping. This proved especially important in years such as 2023/24, when rainfall barely reached 373 mm due to an unprecedented El Niño year. In Kazungula, trials on maize–mucuna strip cropping and maize–lablab rotations showed resilience, with farmers expressing strong interest in growing more fodder and advancing seed multiplication for these crops.

Her reality on-farm

For Lydia, these trials are more than research—they are a valuable tool for transformation. What impressed her most was the maize–lablab rotation. “It’s a game changer for me,” she says. “Lablab suppresses weeds, improves the soil, and even the leaves and pods are useful to eat as relish.” Although lablab is primarily cultivated as animal feed, Lydia’s family has started to enjoy lablab as part of their diet, reducing food costs and increasing nutrition.

In addition, the strip cropping of alternating four rows of narrowly planted maize with four legume rows has also impressed her, especially in terms of weed management. “Weeds are easier to manage, and although armyworm damage is present, it is not destructive,” she explains.

Her determination has grown with each season. Last year, Lydia harvested just 50 bags of maize from scattered parts of her trial field. But instead of pulling back, she leaned in. This season, with better planning and deeper knowledge, she expects to harvest up to 300 bags—enough to feed her household of seven and still have a surplus to sell.

Lydia’s story highlights how participatory research can empower farmers to lead change from the ground up. With access to the right knowledge, support, and tools, she is not merely surviving uncertain seasons—she is farming with purpose.

Caring for the Earth to Secure the Future

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The first leaves of a crop emerging through crop residue. (Photo: CIMMYT)

“The conventional way we used to prepare the land involved heavy soil disturbance, and now we see that’s not necessary. We used pesticides that were, let’s say, not kind to the soil. Now, we are becoming increasingly mindful of the environment — and it turns out to be more profitable. Today, I wouldn’t dare use a pesticide or any polluting product that could harm people or the environment.”

Leopoldo is a farmer from Sinaloa participating in the Supporting Responsible Sourcing in Mexico project — a collaboration between Kellogg Company and CIMMYT. For him, ceasing the practice of burning crop residues and instead using them to cover and protect the soil from erosion signifies a shift in values and a better way of practicing agriculture — one that actively contributes to regenerating the Earth.

The agronomic innovations adopted by farmers involved in the project promote a more balanced relationship with nature, aiming to strengthen a responsible sourcing model that ensures equilibrium between the economic, social, and environmental needs of both current and future generations. This contributes to a more sustainable production and consumption model, capable of feeding a growing global population within planetary boundaries.

If current patterns of production and consumption persist, it is estimated that in less than 30 years we would require the resources of three Earths to meet global needs. The rising scarcity of water and the reduction in arable land—driven by urban expansion and soil degradation—are clear reminders that our planet’s natural resources are finite. These facts underline the urgent need to accelerate the adoption of sustainable practices in agrifood systems.

Within the observance of International Mother Earth Day, efforts like the Supporting Responsible Sourcing in Mexico project serve as a reminder of the importance of forging a new relationship with the planet. Above all, they emphasize recognizing the Earth and its ecosystems as the shared home of all humanity. Failing to care for this home could lead us into further crises — in health, socioeconomic stability, and food security — and agriculture offers powerful solutions to safeguard this common home.

Globally, the agriculture sector is responsible for 24% of greenhouse gas emissions — which contribute to climate change — and 70% of freshwater withdrawals from rivers, lakes, and aquifers. Additionally, for every 1°C increase in global temperature, cereal yields are estimated to decrease by about 5%. Therefore, a new model of sustainable production and consumption must aim for reduced environmental impact, while increasing productivity and delivering benefits for farmers.

The Conservation Agriculture practices promoted by the Kellogg-CIMMYT project are advancing these goals: in just three years of work in Sinaloa and Guanajuato, nearly 7,000 hectares have adopted sustainable agricultural practices, leading to a 36% increase in average maize productivity. In 2021 alone, more than 350 farmers were engaged across over 2,400 hectares, producing nearly 26,000 tons of yellow maize through sustainable intensification technologies.

Looking ahead, the initiative aims to impact around 20,000 hectares to produce close to 180,000 tons of maize with a reduced carbon footprint. Already, farmers have achieved reductions in fuel use for grain production and improved water-use efficiency in irrigation.

“We save on machinery, on fuel, on agrochemicals, and on fertilizers. Now we produce with higher quality and at a lower cost because we practice minimal tillage. They also teach us integrated pest management and even how to optimize fertilizer use,” says Leopoldo, highlighting a system that also eliminates crop burning, one of the leading causes of wildfires.

By providing farmers with the knowledge and tools they need to integrate sustainable production methods, we benefit not only the Earth — but all of humanity.

Sonia Jannat: defying odds, reaping success as a combine harvester MSP

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In the male-dominated realm of agricultural machinery services, Sonia Jannat, a 28-year-old from Jhenaidah, Bangladesh, has inscribed her name as a successful Machinery Solution Provider (MSP). Her determination—and the transformative power of new technologies—has launched her on an extraordinary journey of empowerment and financial independence.

Growing up in a farming household, Sonia was already familiar with cultivation. Rooted in agriculture, she harbored a longstanding ambition to make a meaningful impact in this field. To realize her vision, she consistently stayed abreast of the latest technologies and machinery designed to boost production while minimizing labor and time. However, life took an unexpected turn when her father fell ill with heart disease, forcing Sonia to shoulder the responsibility of financially supporting her family while pursuing her honors degree. This phase of hardship proved to be a turning point in her life.

Sonia Jannat operates one of her combine harvesters in Jhenaidah, Bangladesh. (Photo: CIMMYT)

During this challenging period, Sonia came across a YouTube video showcasing a combine harvester—a cutting-edge machine that could revolutionize harvesting. She immediately recognized its potential to transform farming practices and offer a reliable income stream. The first major hurdle was overcoming her family’s financial constraints and convincing them to invest in a machine without any tangible proof of its benefits.

In October 2020, Sonia and her family attended a live demonstration organized by the private sector, where she successfully persuaded her father to invest in a combine harvester. With the support of a machinery subsidy, she selected the best model suited to her business needs.

Sonia took part in business expansion meetings, built linkages with spare parts shop owners, dealers, and commission agents, and received operational and maintenance training—for both herself and her machine operators.

In the first season of 2021, Sonia’s combine harvester generated an impressive income of approximately US$10,000 (excluding operational and labor costs). This early success fueled her ambition, and with her family’s support, she invested in a second combine harvester, expanding the business.

Today, Sonia Jannat proudly owns three combine harvesters, generating an annual income of BDT 30 lakh (approximately US$33,000). Her customer base has grown to span around ten geographical divisions across Bangladesh. Sonia’s achievements have not only reshaped her own financial future but have also broken deep-rooted societal stereotypes. Once ridiculed for her unconventional path as an unmarried woman, she now commands respect and admiration from the very community that once doubted her.

Sonia shares with pride:

“The same society that once criticized me with comments like, ‘Why is an unmarried girl traveling around to earn money? Why is she breaking social norms?’ is now praising me. After witnessing my talent, social contributions, and support for my family, they now see me as one in a thousand girls!”

With academic credentials that include honors and a master’s degree in Bangla, Sonia’s aspirations continue to grow. She now envisions launching a new entrepreneurial venture offering a wider range of agricultural machinery services. She is committed to empowering women by actively engaging them in her business model—aiming to be an inspirational entrepreneur for many others.

A transformative leap in effective subaward implementation: Inside the revitalized sorghum and millets breeding programs at ZARI

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In the heart of Africa’s farming landscape, the Zambia Agricultural Research Institute (ZARI) is setting a new standard for agricultural research and climate resilience, thanks to a critical subgrant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, facilitated by the Africa Dryland Crops Improvement Network (ADCIN).

Established in August 2023 and convened by CIMMYT’s Dryland Crops Program (DCP), ADCIN is a collaborative network uniting over 200 scientists from more than 17 countries across sub-Saharan Africa. Its mission is to create a dynamic and sustainable community to develop and deliver improved varieties of dryland crops in the region. By leveraging the collective expertise of its multidisciplinary members, ADCIN strives to accelerate the access of enhanced crop varieties to smallholder farmers.

Through this partnership, ZARI has modernized its facilities and practices, creating a model for agricultural innovation in Eastern and Southern Africa. These advancements reflect a powerful vision of enhancing the capacity of breeding programs, improving crop resilience, and boosting food security for communities across the continent.

The Challenges of Transformation

Historically, ZARI faced significant challenges that limited its potential. As Lloyd Mbulwe, Acting Chief Agriculture Research Officer at ZARI, recalls:

“We faced research-related hurdles, from outdated lab facilities and inefficient irrigation systems to limited digital infrastructure and insufficient seed storage.”

These issues hindered not only ZARI’s ability to innovate but also its capacity for collaboration with regional and international partners.

With limited resources, ZARI was unable to meet the demand for high-quality, consistent research and innovation. Data collection was often manual, errors were common, and collaboration was difficult. The lack of modern infrastructure restricted the scope of experiments and the institute’s ability to respond to critical regional issues such as climate change and food insecurity.

A New Era of Modernization and Strategic Partnerships

In partnership with ADCIN, ZARI has received targeted funding and technical support, enabling transformative upgrades across its infrastructure that are redefining its research capabilities.

“The upgrades have reshaped our research capabilities,” Mbulwe explains. “With new equipment, enhanced data management systems, and a suitable greenhouse, we’re conducting better plant breeding experiments that directly address the region’s target product profiles.”

In July 2023, CIMMYT’s Dryland Crops Program conducted breeding program assessments of ZARI’s Golden Valley location, where the national institute’s sorghum and millets breeding programs are being conducted. Mark Nas, CIMMYT’s Sorghum and Millets Breeder for Eastern and Southern Africa, describes ZARI’s program as, “a high-potential program composed of talented and dedicated researchers and technicians, but in need of significant infrastructure upgrades if they are to meaningfully contribute to the shared regional breeding pipelines.”

With a subaward granted to ZARI by the end of 2023, Mbulwe and his team quickly worked on implementing the suggested improvements from the program assessments. Key upgrades include a greenhouse facility for speed breeding and controlled drought research, allowing researchers to rapidly produce lines for regional trials, while evaluating regional materials for drought tolerance. Enhanced water storage and solar power installations now enable uninterrupted research, even during power outages, a frequent challenge in this region. Transitioning to Starlink internet has also strengthened ZARI’s capacity for regional and international collaboration, and real-time data delivery, bridging communication gaps and enabling seamless data sharing.

Boosting Capacity for Impact

The new facilities have transformed ZARI’s capacity for impactful research. Rapid generation advance techniques, where breeding populations are quickly advanced through successive selfing generations, allow ZARI researchers to conduct multiple plantings within a year—dramatically boosting progress in line development.

Additionally, the upgrades also enable off-season research through the ZAMGRO Project, which has expanded water storage capacity from 45 cubic meters to an impressive 3,600,000 cubic meters. With year-round breeding, farming and water management research are now possible, giving ZARI an edge in breeding programs.

Mbulwe shares how automated data collection systems and standardized procedures have further improved the precision and reproducibility of ZARI’s research. “Our teams are now equipped to produce high-quality data leading to actionable results,” he says. “These improvements ensure the quality of outcomes and make our processes more efficient.”

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, ZARI plans to scale its research impact by establishing a Center of Excellence for Climate-Smart Agriculture and establishing a biotechnology lab to advance genetic improvement. Expanding greenhouse and irrigation systems, as well as enhancing digital infrastructure for data management, are key priorities. ZARI also aims to strengthen public-private partnerships to bridge the gap between research and practical applications for farmers across Zambia and beyond.

Inspiration and Best Practices for Other NARES Institutions

ZARI’s success story serves as an inspirational blueprint for other National Agricultural Research and Extension Systems (NARES) institutions. Through strategic partnerships, targeted investments in infrastructure, and an emphasis on capacity building, ZARI has shown what is possible when organizations and their leaders commit to modernizing and adapting to the evolving challenges of agriculture.

From irrigation upgrades to energy-efficient, solar-powered facilities, ZARI’s best practices are setting the stage for similar projects in other regions. “We’ve demonstrated that modernization can make a profound difference in NARES breeding programs,” says Dr. Mbulwe. “It’s about leveraging every resource to upgrade our plant breeding capabilities to address the challenges that climate change and food security bring to our region.”

The Role of ADCIN in Agricultural Innovation

ADCIN has been instrumental in supporting this transformation. Through its technical assistance, funding, and strategic guidance, ADCIN has empowered ZARI and other NARES institutions to elevate research standards across Africa. By aligning investments with regional research priorities, ADCIN not only supports individual institutions but also strengthens agricultural networks on a continental scale. Harish Gandhi, Associate Director of CIMMYT’s Dryland Crops Program, states, “We are operating in a new and transformative model of working with our partners. We want our partners to be resourced to succeed.”

ADCIN’s efforts to enhance research capacity, foster collaboration, and improve governance have seen significant returns. “This partnership has made ZARI a stronger institution,” Mbulwe asserts. “Our research output, regional partnerships, and access to funding have all grown. ADCIN’s support reaffirms its commitment to advancing the excellence of regional breeding and other research in dryland crops across Africa.”

Take-Home Message

ZARI’s journey is a prime example of the power of strategic investment, collaboration, and a shared commitment to addressing climate and food security challenges by building the capacity of national programs through equitable subawards. As it continues to innovate, ZARI remains a symbol of progress for agricultural research across Sub-Saharan Africa. With support from ADCIN, ZARI’s advancements signal a brighter, more resilient future for African dryland crops agriculture—one rooted in science, collaboration, and the promise of food security for all.

Scaling conservation agriculture: Victor Munakabanze’s journey from trials to transformative adoption

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Victor Munakabanze in his field sharing his scaling story with scientists and district agriculture officers (Photo: CIMMYT)

Each annual field tour offers a fresh perspective on the realities farmers face. It’s a window into how different agroecological conditions shape farming experiences and outcomes, revealing what works in farmers’ fields and what doesn’t under an increasingly unpredictable climate.

This year, in Zambia’s Southern Province, the story is promising, as good rains have set the foundation for a favorable crop—a stark contrast to the past season, marked by the El Niño-induced drought.

In the Choma district’s Simaubi camp, Conservation Agriculture (CA) trials paint a picture of resilience and adaptation. The area experiences a semi-arid climate with erratic rainfall averaging 600–800 mm annually, often prone to dry spells and drought years, such as the last, when only 350–400 mm were received. The soils are predominantly of sandy loam texture, with low organic matter and poor water retention capacity, making them susceptible to drought stress.

The area around Simaubi hosts seven mother trials, where a wide range of technologies are tested, and 168 baby trials, where a subset of favored technologies are adapted to farmers’ contexts. Each trial tests different maize-legume intercropping and strip cropping systems against conventional tillage-based practices. As adoption steadily rises, more farmers are experiencing firsthand the benefits of sustainable intensification.

A Champion in the Making

Meet Victor Munakabanze, a farmer with decades of experience and a passion for learning. He began his CA journey as a baby trial implementer, experimenting with the four-row strip cropping system on a 10 m by 20 m plot, with four strips of ripped maize and four strips of ripped groundnuts. Starting in the 2020/21 season—despite a slow start—he persevered. Instead of giving up, he and his wife embarked on a learning journey that led them to scale up and champion CA technologies in their community.

Victor has been part of CA trials under the Sustainable Intensification of Smallholder Farming Systems in Zambia (SIFAZ) project in the Southern Province for five years and has seen the power of small steps in driving change. His initial trial plots sparked hope, showing him that improved yields were possible even under challenging conditions. Encouraged by these results, he expanded his CA practices to a 1.5-hectare plot during the 2024/2025 cropping season, investing in his farm using income from goat sales. He successfully integrated livestock within the cropping system, using goat manure to complement fertilizers—an approach that has not only improved soil fertility but also strengthened the farm’s sustainability.

From Experimentation to Expansion

Victor’s decision to adopt CA at scale was driven by tangible results. He found that intercropping maize and groundnuts in well-spaced rip lines could optimize overall yields better than conventional methods.

However, the transition wasn’t without challenges. In the first season, he started late and harvested little. The following year, delayed planting resulted in just four bags of maize from the 200 m². The El Niño event during the 2023/24 season wiped out his harvest completely. But through each setback, he refined his approach, improving his planting timing and weed management by incorporating herbicides when needed.

Now, his farm serves as a learning hub for fellow farmers from the surrounding community in Simaubi camp. They are drawn in by his success, curious about his planting techniques, and impressed by his ability to integrate crops and livestock. With 23 goats, a growing knowledge base, and a determination to share his experience, Victor embodies the spirit of farmer-led innovation. His story is proof that CA can be practiced beyond the trial plots—it is about ownership, adaptation, and scaling what works.

Inspiring Adoption, One Farmer at a Time

Victor’s journey highlights a crucial lesson: when farmers see the benefits of CA on a small scale, they are more likely to adopt and expand these practices on their own. His resilience, coupled with a keen eye for what works, has made him a role model in his community. From testing to real-world application, his success is growing evidence of the replicability of CA technologies. As adoption spreads, stories like Victor’s pave the way for a future where sustainable farming is not just an experiment—but a way of life.

CIMMYT drives wheat production systems and enhances livelihoods in Ethiopia’s Lowlands through the ADAPT-Wheat Project

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Away Hamza, a young and ambitious farmer in Arsi Zone, Oromia region, proudly tends to his wheat field (Photo: CIMMYT)

Wheat plays a pivotal role in Ethiopia’s agricultural landscape. As the country’s second most important staple crop, it is crucial to national food security. Traditionally, wheat cultivation has been concentrated in Ethiopia’s highlands, but this has changed with the introduction of the ADAPT-Wheat project—an initiative designed to address the production challenges faced by Ethiopia’s irrigated lowland areas. Led by CIMMYT in partnership with the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR), the project aims to tackle key issues such as the lack of stress-tolerant wheat varieties and limited access to reliable seed sources.

Transforming wheat farming in Ethiopia’s lowlands

The Adaptation, Demonstration, and Piloting of Wheat Technologies for Irrigated Lowlands of Ethiopia (ADAPT-Wheat) project focuses on bridging critical wheat production gaps and introducing innovative solutions for smallholder farmers, particularly in the Afar and Oromia regions. By improving wheat production through new varieties and modern technologies, the project is not only increasing agricultural productivity but also transforming farmers’ livelihoods. The initiative aims to directly benefit 1,000 households, with a much wider impact expected across the two regions.

Financially supported by BMZ, the project aligns with Ethiopia’s broader goal of achieving food self-sufficiency. Researchers and national partners have witnessed a significant shift in wheat production practices, demonstrating the success of innovative agricultural technologies and improved collaboration among stakeholders.

Insights from researchers and partners

Bekele Abeyo, CIMMYT-Ethiopia Country Representative and project leader:

“The ADAPT-Wheat project marks a major milestone in Ethiopia’s wheat production journey. It introduces viable wheat technologies that are well-suited for the irrigated lowlands, enhancing both production and productivity in the pursuit of food and nutritional security.” 

Tolossa Debele, senior researcher and EIAR–DG representative:

“For years, CIMMYT has been instrumental in advancing Ethiopia’s wheat production system by introducing germplasm, improving varieties, and offering financial, equipment & technical support and training for both researchers and farmers. With the ADAPT-Wheat project, we’ve seen another tangible difference in the livelihoods of smallholder farmers, particularly in the Afar and Oromia regions. The project’s support, including the introduction of modern farm machinery, has not only enhanced mechanization at the farm level but has also contributed significantly to the broader objectives of national agricultural development.”  

Tolossa Debele, senior researcher and EIAR-DG representative (Photo: CIMMYT)

Major milestones and achievements

1. Building capacity for sustainable change

One of the project’s most significant accomplishments has been its strong emphasis on capacity building—both human and physical—to empower local communities in wheat farming. Key capacity-building initiatives include:

  • Training for researchers: Software and scientific writing training to enhance technical skills and scientific contributions.
  • Training of trainers (TOT) for agricultural experts: Development agents and district-level subject matter specialists were trained to share knowledge with farmers.

The project also included seed distribution, experience-sharing visits, and field days to disseminate knowledge and encourage peer learning. A notable outcome has been informal seed exchange among farmers, amplifying the project’s impact.

Through these efforts, the project successfully reached approximately 4,300 households and engaged a wide range of stakeholders, contributing to human capacity development, seed production and distribution, technology diffusion, and sustainable farming practices.

Additionally, infrastructure development—such as the construction of a quarantine facility and installation of air conditioning units at the Werer Research Center—has strengthened research capacity and maintained high standards for agricultural innovation. The procurement of essential farm machinery has also set the stage for more sustainable wheat farming in Ethiopia’s lowlands.

2. Introducing elite wheat lines

The project introduced 505 elite bread wheat lines and 235 durum wheat lines. From these, 111 bread wheat and 49 durum wheat genotypes were identified for their promising traits, including heat stress tolerance, early maturity, and superior yield components. These lines were rigorously tested across diverse agroecological zones to ensure adaptability.

3. Demonstrating modern irrigation technology and mechanization

The project didn’t stop at improving wheat varieties—it also introduced modern mechanization practices to enhance efficiency and yield. In the Afar and Oromia regions, pilot farms demonstrated advanced machinery such as:

  • Subsoilers
  • Bailers
  • Land levelers
  • Planters
  • Ridge makers
  • Multi-crop threshers

These technologies have been showcased at various farm sites to facilitate adaptation and scaling.

4. Releasing and adapting wheat varieties

The project identified eight wheat varieties (four bread wheat and four durum wheat) suited for Ethiopia’s lowland irrigated conditions.

Additionally, two new wheat varieties—one bread wheat and one durum wheat—were officially registered and released for large-scale production. These releases mark a significant milestone in Ethiopia’s efforts to strengthen wheat production systems.

5. Seed production and distribution

Ensuring the availability of high-quality seeds has been another key priority. Through partnerships with research centers, early-generation seeds were provided to private seed producers and farmers’ cooperative unions. Field monitoring ensured seed quality at harvest, resulting in the production of 430 quintals of certified seed.

Women and youth empowerment strategy

The ADAPT-Wheat project has made a deliberate effort to empower women and youth by ensuring they have access to high-quality seeds, training, and technical support. Notably, women comprised 32% of seed distribution beneficiaries, strengthening their role in improving food security and livelihoods.

Voices from the field: Farmers share their stories

Damma Yami from Jeju district, Alaga Dore village

Farmer Damma Yami, has carefully monitors her thriving wheat crop as it nears harvest (Photo: CIMMYT)

Damma Yami’s story is a powerful example of how innovative agricultural initiatives can transform communities, especially in regions facing harsh environmental conditions.

“For many years, we have lived in arid conditions where livestock farming was our primary livelihood. However, with the challenges posed by weather trends, our traditional systems were no longer sufficient to maintain our livelihoods. The introduction of the ADAPT-Wheat project in recent years has reversed this trend. The project brought us wheat cultivation, as a new and golden opportunity for the farming community. We received high-yielding seeds, training, and technical support on farming practices, and soon we began to see impressive results. The benefits of the project are clear: it provides food for our families, generates income to send children to school, and helps meet other basic needs. As a farmer who engaged in this project, I can confidently say that the project has reshaped our future livelihood.”

Yeshiwas Worku from Oromia region, Arsi Zone, Merti district, Woticha Dole village

Farmer Yeshiwas Worku actively monitoring the growth and performance of his wheat crop on his plot, ensuring optimal results through the support of the ADAPT project (Photo: CIMMYT)

Yeshiwas Worku, a 40-year-old farmer was among those who benefited from the project.

Yeshiwas explains that before the project, wheat cultivation was not traditionally practiced in his area, but it has now become a game-changer for the community. The introduction of modern farming tools, machinery, and access to improved crop varieties has been key to their success. With the help of the project, wheat production has not only become their main source of income but has also helped farmers gain confidence in their ability to sustain their livelihoods.

“We are now familiar with modern farming tools, machines, and practices thanks to the implementing partners of the ADAPT project. We also have access to improved crop varieties, which are crucial for better production and increased income. Now, wheat production has become the main source of our livelihood. This alternative farming opportunity has not only boosted our confidence but has also allowed us to secure a more sustainable livelihood for my family and me. I am deeply grateful to the project implementing partners for playing such a crucial role in transforming our lives. The impact has truly been transformative.”

A transformative impact on wheat production

The ADAPT-Wheat project, alongside CIMMYT’s ongoing work in Ethiopia, has significantly improved wheat production systems and enhanced the livelihoods of smallholder farmers in the lowland regions. More than just a This project is technological intervention, the project serves as a lifeline for smallholder farmers. By introducing innovative wheat technologies, improving seed availability, and empowering local communities, it directly contributes to Ethiopia’s food security goals while fostering economic growth and resilience in rural areas.

As Ethiopia continues its journey toward agricultural self-sufficiency, the success of the ADAPT-Wheat project serves as a model for sustainable agricultural development.

Bridging borders: A South-South exchange between Ethiopia and Nepal to tackle soil health challenges

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CIMMYT and Nepalese delegation and Debre Zeit Agricultural Research Center research team in the field (Photo: CIMMYT)

Soil health is fundamental to agricultural productivity, food security, and climate resilience. In Ethiopia and Nepal, deteriorating soil conditions—driven by acidity, nutrient depletion, and land degradation—pose a significant challenge to farmers and policymakers alike. Addressing these issues is not just a technical necessity but a pathway to ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability and economic stability.

Recognizing these shared challenges, CIMMYT facilitated a South-South exchange between Ethiopia and Nepal to foster collaboration, exchange knowledge, and explore innovative solutions for improving soil health.

Shared challenges, shared solutions

Both Ethiopia and Nepal face persistent soil health challenges that hinder agricultural productivity. In Ethiopia, soil degradation—stemming from issues like soil acidity, salinity, and nutrient depletion—has become a barrier to achieving higher agricultural productivity. Similarly, Nepal is navigating soil health concerns amidst small landholdings, urban migration, and climate impacts.

For both nations, sustainable soil management is critical to strengthening their agricultural sectors. This exchange provided an opportunity for researchers, policymakers, and agricultural experts to learn from each other’s experiences, leveraging successful approaches to improve soil quality and boost productivity.

CIMMYT and Nepalese delegation listening to explanations by Experts and technicians about the various activities taking place at the soil and plan analysis laboratory
(Photo: CIMMYT)

A unique exchange of knowledge

From November 25–28, a Nepalese delegation—including CIMMYT scientists and representatives from Nepal’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development (MoALD) and the Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC)—visited Ethiopia to gain insights into its soil health initiatives.

Ethiopia has made significant progress in soil management through collaborations between government agencies, research institutions, and international partners. With CIMMYT’s support, the country has developed a National Soil Information System (NSIS), a comprehensive data-driven approach that guides interventions to improve soil health, increase productivity, and enhance food security.

During the visit, the Nepalese delegation met with leading Ethiopian institutions, including:

  • The Ministry of Agriculture (MoA)
  • The Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR)
  • The Agricultural Transformation Institute (ATI)
  • The Holeta Agricultural Research Center
  • The National Agricultural Biotechnology Research Center

Through site visits and discussions, the delegation explored Ethiopia’s Vertisol management strategies, sub-soil acidity solutions, and data-driven soil health policies—areas that could be adapted to Nepal’s agricultural landscape.

A shared commitment to agricultural innovation

Beyond knowledge exchange, the visit served as a catalyst for long-term collaboration between the two countries. CIMMYT has been working in Ethiopia for over three decades, supporting research and technology development to enhance soil health and food security. In Nepal, CIMMYT scientists collaborate with national partners to strengthen agricultural commercialization and climate resilience.

During their visit, Nepalese delegates expressed particular interest in Ethiopia’s Geo-Nutrition approach, which connects soil quality to human health by analyzing how soil nutrients influence the nutritional value of crops. Nepal sees great potential in adopting this model to enhance both agricultural and public health outcomes.

Shanta Karki, Joint Secretary at Nepal’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development (Photo: CIMMYT)

Shanta Karki, Joint Secretary at Nepal’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, reflected on the visit: “The insights we gained in Ethiopia will be instrumental in improving our soil health strategies.

We see great potential for collaboration between Ethiopia and Nepal in tackling common challenges like soil acidity and water management.” She added that another key area of learning was Geo-Nutrition, an innovative field that connects soil health to human health.

The concept, which Ethiopia has been actively exploring, looks at how soil quality influences the nutritional value of crops and ultimately the health of the populations that depend on them. The Nepalese delegation saw this as an opportunity to further develop their own approach to improving soil and human health simultaneously.

Looking Ahead: Building stronger partnerships

Shanta Karki, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development (MoA), presents a token of appreciation to Dr. Samuel Gameda, Senior Soil Scientist at CIMMYT-Ethiopia, in recognition of his efforts to strengthen partnerships between Nepal and Ethiopia in the framework of improving soil health (Photo: Desalegne Tadesse/CIMMYT)

As CIMMYT continues to facilitate South-South exchanges, the goal is to adapt successful models from Ethiopia to Nepal while drawing lessons from Nepal’s unique agricultural landscape. The delegation left Ethiopia with renewed motivation to enhance soil health, not just for the benefit of farmers but for broader food security and economic resilience.

Narayan Prasad Khanal, Business Development Manager at CIMMYT Nepal, emphasized the importance of such exchanges. “The lessons learned here, particularly on sub-soil acidity management and Geo-Nutrition, will be crucial for enhancing our regulatory systems and addressing challenges in Nepal’s agriculture. This experience has shown us how important it is to adapt successful models from other countries and incorporate them into our own agricultural practices.

Dr. Shree Prasad Vista, Senior Scientist at the Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC), shares his reflections and lessons learned during the experience-sharing visit (Photo: Desalegne Tadesse/CIMMYT)

Shree Prasad Vista, Senior Scientist at the Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC), was particularly fascinated by Ethiopia’s innovative work on Vertisol management and soil acidity. He remarked, “The insights we gained from CIMMYT, particularly on Geo-Nutrition and soil acidity, will help enhance our agricultural practices and regulatory systems in Nepal.”

A Path toward collaborative solutions

As Ethiopia and Nepal continue to navigate similar agricultural challenges, the knowledge gained from this exchange will play a crucial role in shaping future soil health strategies. By learning from each other’s successes, both countries are positioning themselves to implement sustainable, climate-resilient soil management practices tailored to their unique context.

This exchange stands as a powerful example of how international collaboration fosters innovation, resilience, and food security. Through shared expertise and collective action, Ethiopia and Nepal are laying the foundation for stronger agricultural systems that will benefit future generations.

Seeds of change: How QDS is transforming smallholder farming in Tanzania

Written by dmedina on . Posted in Blogs.

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.

“This 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,” 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.

“Thanks 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,” says Baraka Hamis from Karatu district.

Joyce Yuda from the Chamwiilee Agro-Live QDS-producing group further stated, “Thanks to the seed sales, I have paid my children’s school fees and renovated my house. My food is assured, and I have economic freedom.”