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Fungal Resistance in Wheat: Biodiversity & Food Security

Written by dmedina on . Posted in In the media.

CIMMYT played a key role in advancing research on yellow rust resistance by supporting field trials in Mexico and providing access to its extensive collection of traditional wheat varieties. Through its collaboration with the University of Zurich and Kyoto University, CIMMYT contributed to the identification of novel genetic regions in Asian landraces that offer resistance to the destructive fungus. Its leadership in conserving one of the world’s largest wheat germplasm collections continues to be vital for global efforts to develop disease-resilient wheat and safeguard food security through biodiversity.

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Positioning Soil Health on the Agenda: Bridging Science, Policy and Advocacy

Written by dmedina on . Posted in In the media.

In the May 2025 webinar co-hosted by CA4SH and the Vision for Adapted Crops and Soils (VACS), CIMMYT played a leading role through its co-leadership of VACS, promoting resilient food systems grounded in healthy soils and climate-adapted crops. Represented by Daniela Vega (CGIAR/CIMMYT), the Center highlighted VACS’ rapid growth and its efforts to bridge science, policy, and practice—supporting integrated soil health solutions, evidence-based decision-making, and advancing global commitments like the Soil Health Resolution.

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Small grains and new methods bring resilience to Zimbabwean farmers

Written by mcallejas on . Posted in In the media.

In Zimbabwe, farmers are turning to conservation agriculture and climate-resilient crops such as millet, sorghum and cowpeas in order to combat the growing threat of drought, which has been exacerbated by El Niño. Traditional farming methods have left soils degraded and yields diminished, prompting many farmers, such as Memory Mukototse from Kaidza village, to adopt new techniques through programmes like the R4 Rural Resilience Initiative, which is led by the World Food Programme.

By comparing conservation and conventional farming methods, farmers have discovered that practices such as minimal soil disturbance, crop rotation and maintaining ground cover can greatly enhance harvests and improve water retention. Backed by CIMMYT, this farmer-driven research and peer-to-peer knowledge exchange, facilitated through seed fairs, group coordination and exchange visits, has not only enhanced food security, but also empowered communities to adapt and flourish in the face of challenging climatic conditions.

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Nigeria Releases Hybrid Pearl Millet to Boost Nutrition and Climate Resilience

Written by dmedina on . Posted in In the media.

As a key partner in the release of Nigeria’s first biofortified hybrid pearl millet varieties, CIMMYT contributed its scientific expertise and commitment to advancing climate-resilient, nutrition-rich crops for smallholder farmers. Collaborating closely with ICRISAT, HarvestPlus, and the Lake Chad Research Institute (LCRI), CIMMYT played a pivotal role in supporting the development and scaling of high-yielding, early-maturing millet hybrids enhanced with iron and zinc. This effort reflects CIMMYT’s broader mission to strengthen agrifood systems through innovation and partnership, addressing the dual challenges of malnutrition and climate stress while empowering rural communities across Nigeria’s drylands.

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Ethiopia’s Offer to China, Mexico On Agricultural Modernization

Written by dmedina on . Posted in In the media.

CIMMYT is a key partner through which Mexico supports Ethiopia’s efforts to modernize its agricultural sector. During a meeting with the Mexican Ambassador to Ethiopia, Minister of Agriculture Dr. Girma Amente reaffirmed the country’s interest in working with Mexico to promote agricultural technologies, enhance the value chain of Bonga Products, and develop areas such as irrigation, durum wheat, soil health, and the Green Legacy initiative. He specifically requested that Mexico continue its support through CIMMYT and encouraged Mexican private investors to engage in processing agricultural products and meeting the growing mechanization needs of Ethiopian farmers.

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Sugar Signalling Breakthrough Could Increase Wheat Yields by Up to 12%

Written by dmedina on . Posted in In the media.

Extensive multi-year field trials conducted by CIMMYT in Mexico played a pivotal role in validating the efficacy of the Trehalose 6-phosphate (T6P) spray treatment, confirming its potential to boost wheat yields by up to 12%. Despite challenges posed by fluctuating rainfall—an increasingly common constraint under climate change—CIMMYT’s trial plots consistently outperformed untreated controls across four consecutive crop cycles. These results underscore CIMMYT’s leadership in translating laboratory innovations into resilient, field-ready solutions that enhance food security while advancing sustainable agrifood systems in diverse agroecological conditions.

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Pest and disease attacks on crops rising due to climate change: Scientist

Written by dmedina on . Posted in In the media.

Pest and disease outbreaks in agriculture are increasing at an alarming rate due to the impacts of climate change, with shifting temperatures and erratic weather patterns creating favorable conditions for pests and pathogens to thrive. This growing challenge threatens crop yields and food security across climate-vulnerable regions. Dr. Prasanna Boddupalli, Distinguished Scientist and Regional Director for Asia at CIMMYT, underscores the urgent need for climate-resilient, pest- and disease-resistant crop varieties, alongside robust surveillance systems and strengthened capacity building. Addressing these risks through integrated, science-driven strategies is vital to safeguarding plant health and securing resilient agrifood systems for the future.

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Strengthening One Health Approach in Agriculture Requires Cross-Sectoral Partnerships, Information

Written by dmedina on . Posted in In the media.

The One Health approach, which connects human, animal, and environmental health, is increasingly shaping agricultural research to address global health and food security challenges. During CGIAR Science Week, experts highlighted the need for cross sector collaboration and evidence based policy. CIMMYT’s Dr. Jordon Chamberlin shared how research on livestock health and sustainable farming aligns with this approach, supporting integrated solutions for resilient agrifood systems.

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Building IP Capacity Across Nations: ICRISAT’s South-South Training Sparks Cross-Country Learning

Written by dmedina on . Posted in In the media.

CIMMYT participated in the international training on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) organized by ICRISAT under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Program, joining CGIAR centers and institutions from 16 countries to strengthen global understanding of IPR in agricultural research. Through its involvement, CIMMYT contributed to the exchange of knowledge and best practices on innovation protection, policy development, and strategic interventions essential for advancing responsible agricultural innovation. This engagement reflects CIMMYT’s broader commitment to capacity development and the promotion of equitable access to agricultural technologies that support sustainable and inclusive food systems.

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Trade Partnerships and Industry Milestones

Written by dmedina on . Posted in In the media.

The State of Mexico is supporting native corn preservation by providing MX$3.5 million in financial aid and equipment to local farmers. In collaboration with CIMMYT and UNAM, the government is advancing research to improve open-pollinated varieties and promote sustainable farming. As part of this effort, 833 seed accessions have been donated to enhance biodiversity and strengthen traditional maize cultivation. This initiative aims to support farmers while preserving Mexico’s rich maize heritage.

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Decades of research deliver drought-tolerant maize for a hotter, uncertain future

Written by dmedina on . Posted in In the media.

In Zimbabwe, smallholder farmers like Ranganai Shonhiwa and Martha Chivengwa are facing the harsh realities of climate change, with erratic rainfall and prolonged droughts threatening their maize crops—their primary source of food and income. However, drought-tolerant maize varieties, developed through decades of research by CIMMYT and partners, are proving to be a game-changer. These resilient crops, combined with climate-smart farming practices such as reduced tillage and intercropping with legumes, are helping farmers maintain yields despite extreme weather conditions. With CIMMYT’s ongoing efforts in 19 districts across Zimbabwe, farmers are seeing improved harvests, increased incomes, and renewed hope for a more food-secure future.

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Zimbabwean farmers face crop-munching armyworm after drought

Written by dmedina on . Posted in In the media.

Zimbabwean farmers are facing severe crop losses due to the combined impacts of climate change, drought, and fall armyworm infestations, threatening food security and livelihoods. CIMMYT’s expertise in climate-smart agriculture is crucial in tackling these challenges, as highlighted by Dr. Christian Thierfelder, who emphasizes sustainable pest management strategies such as intercropping, regenerative farming, and biological control methods. These approaches not only reduce reliance on pesticides but also enhance resilience against climate-driven pest outbreaks. With maize yields at risk, integrating CIMMYT’s research-driven solutions can help smallholder farmers adapt, ensuring more sustainable and productive farming systems in Zimbabwe and across sub-Saharan Africa.

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Minister warns of counterfeit seed risks as planting season looms

Written by dmedina on . Posted in In the media.

Uganda’s Dr. Godfrey Asea of NaCRRI was recognized for developing over 20 maize varieties, including drought-tolerant hybrids that support food security. His work has earned multiple breeding and technology awards from CIMMYT, reflecting CIMMYT’s commitment to advancing climate-resilient maize in Africa. As Uganda’s Minister of Agriculture warns against counterfeit seeds, CIMMYT’s efforts in supporting national research institutions remain crucial in ensuring farmers have access to high-quality, stress-tolerant seeds.

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CIMMYT donates agricultural implements to Gwebi

Written by dmedina on . Posted in In the media.

CIMMYT has strengthened agricultural research and breeding programs in Zimbabwe by donating machinery to Gwebi College of Agriculture to modernize breeding efforts and enhance genetic gains. This support equips breeding stations with advanced tools, reduces field labor, and expands research opportunities, including for women in technical roles. By fostering research partnerships and developing high-yield, climate-resilient maize varieties, CIMMYT is driving innovation to combat pests, diseases, and climate challenges, ultimately improving smallholder farmers’ productivity and supporting Zimbabwe’s goal of increasing maize yields.

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Tecnologico De Monterrey Develops Nutraceutical Corn to Address the Global Food Crisis and Improve Health

Written by dmedina on . Posted in In the media.

CIMMYT collaborated with Tecnologico de Monterrey’s FEMSA Biotechnology Center in the development and validation of nutraceutical corn. By leveraging Mexico’s maize diversity through the world’s largest germplasm bank, CIMMYT contributed expertise in crossbreeding to help incorporate traits such as higher protein, fatty acids, and antioxidants, supporting advancements in food security and sustainable agriculture.

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