Skip to main content

Theme: Dryland Crops

Transforming Farming in Uganda: The journey of four farmers and their demonstration plots

Written by dmedina on . Posted in Blogs.

On the lush soils of Uganda, four farmers are using awareness creation demonstration plots to showcase the performance of improved varieties of groundnut, sorghum, and finger millet and their impact on transforming transform livelihoods.  

Not only are these farmers improving their yields, but they are also inspiring their neighbours to adopt more resilient and climate-smart crops as part of a larger collaboration initiative between the National Semi-Arid Resources Research Institute (NaSARRI) and CIMMYT through the Accelerated Varietal Improvement and Seed Systems in Africa (AVISA) project. The AVISA project, funded by BMGF, aims to improve food security and resilience in the drylands of Uganda and other eight countries in eastern and southern Africa (Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique, South Sudan, Zambia, and Zimbabwe). The efforts of these four farmers in Uganda highlight the importance of demonstration plots as a powerful tool for creating awareness and promoting transformational agricultural technologies like improved crop varieties and other recommended agronomic practices.  

Dennis Obua, a farmer from Teyawo village, has embraced improved, drought-tolerant varieties of ground nuts and finger millet (Photo: Marion Aluoch/CIMMYT)

Demonstration plots serve as practical, hands-on learning sites, where farmers can observe the performance of improved crop varieties under farming conditions in their localities. Apart from demonstrating crop performance, these demonstration plots also serve as sources of seed for the farmers, which when selected can be grown in bigger plots in subsequent seasons targeting seed production.  This ensures that seed of the target crop varieties are available to local farmers. Through these demonstration plots, farmers not only witness firsthand improved yields, but farmers also make informed decisions for adoption of specific varieties for their environments to improve productivity, food security and resilience, especially in regions vulnerable to climate change. They also provide a platform for knowledge sharing, as farmers can interact with other farmers, researchers and extension agents to enhance uptake of practices that lead to success. 

Farmers Driving Variety Adoption through Demonstration Plots

In Lira District, Dennis Obua, a farmer from Teyawo village, has embraced improved varieties of drought-tolerant crops. His journey into farming began in 2018 after observing the challenges faced by local farmers due to inconsistent rainfall. He started small, with a handful of finger millet seed obtained from NaSSARI, which he multiplied and shared with neighbouring farmers. With support from the seed systems unit at NaSSARI, Dennis now manages demonstration plots of groundnut, sorghum, and finger millet and promotes these crops in his community. 

In the current season of 2024 (Mar-Jul), Dennis planted three improved groundnut varieties — SERENUT 8R, SERENUT 11 and SERENUT 14, which were released in 2011. In his assessment, his preferred variety is SERENUT 14 as it yields about 14 to 16 bags per acre. The variety is drought tolerant, disease resistant, especially rot and rosette, produces a good yield and also has a good number of pods.  Under demonstration are two finger millet varieties, NAROMIL 2 and SEREMI 2 (U15) though he prefers NAROMIL 2 (released in 2017) for its drought tolerance, high yield and red colour of the grain. His success has inspired many local farmers to adopt these improved varieties, with many seeking seeds to grow on their own plots. The seed demand generated from these demonstration plots is communicated by the host farmer to the research institute, which works on making the seed available through local entities. The host farmer keeps records of seed requests and preferred varieties from farmers visiting the demonstrations. 

Bagonza Simon oversees demonstration plots, which serve as a hub for agricultural learning, showcasing groundnut, finger millet, and sorghum varieties (Photo: Marion Aluoch/CIMMYT)

At the Kihola Demonstration Centre, the farm manager, Bagonza Simon oversees demonstration plots that serve as a hub for agricultural learning. Working with NaSARRI, Simon has introduced improved varieties of groundnut (SERENUT 8R, SERENUT 11, and SERENUT 14), sorghum (NAROSORGH 2 and SESO 1), and finger millet (NAROMIL 2 and SEREMI 2). Farmers visit the center to observe these varieties and learn about their benefits. The selection of preferred sorghum varieties by farmers appears to be influenced by the degree of bird damage observed across different types. For example, the white-grained sorghum (SESO 1) suffered significant bird damage, which led farmers to naturally favor the red-grained NAROSORG-2, released in 2017. In addition to being less susceptible to bird damage, NAROSORG-2 also demonstrates drought and striga tolerance, further enhancing its appeal among farmers. 

Simon has been particularly impressed by the attributes of the groundnut variety SERENUT 8R, which has performed well despite the challenging weather conditions observed in the season characterized by very erratic rainfall patterns. His demonstration plots have become a beacon of hope and innovation, inspiring local farmers to adopt drought-tolerant crop varieties. Farmer to farmer seed exchanges are common in this locality due to seed shortages and he therefore plans to share seed from his plots to interested farmers and is working with NaSARRI to expand seed availability across the region. 

Steven Odel from Kaloka village has drought-tolerant varieties of sorghum, finger millet, and groundnut in his demonstration plot (Photo: Marion Aluoch/CIMMYT)

In Bukedea District, farmers Steven Odel from Kaloka village and Nelson Ekurutu from Kasoka village are also leading the way with their demonstration plots. Both are testing drought-tolerant varieties of sorghum, finger millet, and groundnut. While Steven encountered challenges with his sorghum crop due to midge attacks, he has had great success with NAROSORG-2, which he describes as having better germination and faster maturity, and therefore enabling the plants to escape midge attack. 

Steven is also growing red finger millet variety SEREMI2, which is very popular for its early maturity and high market demand for making porridge and local beer. He regularly hosts farmers on his plots, sharing his knowledge and experience.  

Nelson Ekurutu is trialling three new groundnut varieties—SERENUT 8, SERENUT 11, and SERENUT 14—and is optimistic about their performance. His experience with finger millet, particularly the red variety- SEREMI2, has been positive, noting its fast growth and high demand in local markets. Nelson also grows red sorghum (NAROSORG 2), which he prefers for its resistance to bird damage. These demonstration plots provide a platform for Steven and Nelson to test new varieties in their local context, helping them and others understand what works best in their locality.  

Nelson Ekurutu is trialing new varieties of ground nut, finger millet, and sorghum (Photo: Marion Aluoch/CIMMYT)

Increasing awareness and seed availability 

Utilizing these demonstrations to bring new varieties closer to farmers can further accelerate seed uptake and demand. Farmer-managed demonstrations in their own environments ensure that variety selections align with local preferences and adaptability. Farmers who consistently host these demonstrations build trust in the varieties within their communities, while also creating opportunities for local seed businesses to explore. Strengthening the linkages between research institutions, farmers, and seed producers is crucial for ensuring the rapid adoption of new and improved varieties. Additionally, the distribution of small seed packs at scale is essential to enable more farmers to test these varieties on their own farms, ensuring wider adoption and transforming livelihoods in these communities. 

Climate Change Threatens Agriculture In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Farmers Struggle To Cope

Written by dmedina on . Posted in In the media.

CIMMYT is at the forefront of addressing climate change challenges in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) by introducing drought-tolerant wheat varieties and hybrid seeds for vegetables, tailored to withstand water scarcity, heat stress, and erratic rainfall. Through collaborations with local research institutions, CIMMYT equips farmers with innovative solutions to sustain crop productivity in the face of extreme weather. These efforts directly support smallholder farmers in building resilience and securing their livelihoods amidst the growing threats posed by climate change.

Read the full story.

ZARI promotes climate-smart agriculture to strengthen research excellence, innovation, and sustainability

Written by dmedina on . Posted in News.

The Zambia Agricultural Research Institute (ZARI) has undergone a significant transformation, fueled by a strategic subgrant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation through the Africa Dryland Crop Improvement Network (ADCIN). Established in August 2023 and convened by CIMMYT through its Dryland Crops Program (DCP), ADCIN is a collaborative network aimed at uniting over 200 scientists from more than 17 countries across sub-Saharan Africa. Its mission is to create a dynamic and sustainable network 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.

This support has led to the modernization of ZARI’s research facilities, improved irrigation systems, and enhanced data management capabilities, positioning the institute as a leader in climate-smart crop research. Key advances include speed breeding and controlled drought research, which have led to higher crop yields and better adaptation to climate challenges. These improvements have not only strengthened Zambia’s agricultural research capacity but also fostered regional collaboration and knowledge sharing, benefiting farmers, scientists, and institutions across Southern Africa. The institute’s improved infrastructure, including expanded water storage and solar power, has ensured uninterrupted research, even during power outages. As a model for other NARES institutions, ZARI’s transformation highlights the critical role of strategic investment in agricultural research to address the growing challenges of climate change and food security across Africa.

We caught up with Dr. Loyd Mbulwe, the Ag. Chief Agriculture Research Officer at ZARI, to get more insight into the upgrade.

Q: What were some of the challenges ZARI faced before the upgrades?

A: ZARI faced several research-related challenges that hampered its potential for innovation. These included limited access to essential research equipment, inadequate funding for critical projects, and insufficient capacity for data management and analysis. Collaboration and knowledge sharing with regional and international partners were also limited.

In terms of infrastructure, ZARI struggled with outdated laboratory facilities, inefficient greenhouse and irrigation systems, and limited storage space for seeds and plant materials. The institution’s ICT infrastructure was inadequate to support modern agricultural research needs. Operational efficiency was hampered by manual data collection, inefficient research protocols, and inadequate standard operating procedures.

Q: How has the upgrade helped ZARI overcome these challenges, and how has it improved the quality and quantity of research coming out of ZARI?

A: Recent upgrades at ZARI have significantly improved its research capabilities. New equipment and increased funding have supported larger projects, while improved data management systems have streamlined data handling and fostered greater collaboration with regional and international partners. The addition of a modern greenhouse and upgraded irrigation systems has improved water management and allowed for more controlled experiments. Expanded seed storage capacity now ensures the secure preservation of critical plant material for future research.

Automated data collection systems have reduced errors and increased efficiency, while standardized research procedures have improved the quality and reproducibility of results. Improved research documentation and targeted staff training programs have further enhanced research skills, enabling the team to produce more impactful results.

The newly constructed greenhouse facility enhances crop breeding and genetics research, enabling efficient off-season studies.  (Photo: ZARI/Zambia)
Q: How has ZARI’s research capacity improved with the upgraded facilities and new equipment?

A: ZARI has undergone significant upgrades to improve its research capacity. The new greenhouse facility has improved crop breeding and genetics research, allowing for more efficient off-season research. Speed breeding, a technique that accelerates crop generation turnover by two to five times through controlled environmental conditions, has been a game changer. The greenhouse also enables controlled drought research, providing insights into the development of climate-resilient crops. The ZAMGRO project has increased ZARI’s water storage capacity from 45 m² to 3.6 million m², enabling year-round farming and improved water management. The subgrant also enabled the installation of solar power, addressing the electricity challenges caused by recent droughts. The move to Starlink internet connectivity has also improved ZARI’s online capabilities, providing reliable, uninterrupted internet access, even in remote research sites.

An aerial view of the installed solar panels, that has resolved electricity challenges and mitigating power outages. (Photo: ZARI/Zambia)
Q: Looking ahead, what are ZARI’s future plans? Are there any further upgrades or expansions planned for the future?

A: ZARI’s future plans focus on increasing its research impact through strategic partnerships and innovation. The institute aims to establish a center of excellence for climate-smart agriculture and develop a biotechnology laboratory to advance genetic improvement and crop resilience. Expanding greenhouse and irrigation systems and improving digital infrastructure for data management are also priorities. ZARI also plans to strengthen collaborations with international research institutions and pursue public-private partnerships to transfer technology from research to practical applications. In addition, ZARI is committed to human resource development through targeted training, fellowships, and mentorship programs to nurture future researchers.

Q: What steps is ZARI taking to ensure the long-term sustainability of the upgraded facilities and research programs?

A: ZARI has implemented a comprehensive plan to ensure the long-term sustainability of its upgraded facilities and research programs. Key areas include maintenance of facilities, continuation of research programs, capacity building, partnerships, and knowledge sharing. ZARI has secured funding from partners and donors, diversified its income streams, and developed sustainable research funding models. Staff training, mentoring programs, and collaboration with international experts are key to ensuring that the research team stays abreast of new technologies. Strategic partnerships with private sector companies, joint research initiatives, and technology transfer agreements have further strengthened ZARI’s research capabilities. Regular impact assessments and collaborations with universities, research institutes, and government agencies further strengthen ZARI’s research capabilities and ensure that programs remain relevant and impactful.

An aerial view of the water storage system during installation. This has increased the capacity to support year-round farming and improved water management. (Photo: ZARI/Zambia)
Q: In what ways can this facility upgrade serve as a model or inspiration for other NARES facilities in the region? Are there any best practices that ZARI would recommend for similar projects?

A: The ZARI facility upgrade serves as a model for other NARES institutions in several significant ways. First, it highlights the importance of strategic partnerships, demonstrating how collaboration with regional and international organizations can lead to meaningful progress. Second, it emphasizes capacity building, with a focus on investing in staff training and development to improve institutional performance.

There are also several inspirational aspects to ZARI’s transformation. It demonstrates the transformative impact that research modernization can have on NARES breeding programs and shows the potential for improving agricultural research capacity. In addition, the upgrade is highly regionally relevant, addressing pressing regional challenges.

Finally, ZARI’s best practices provide valuable lessons for other institutions. The irrigation upgrade is an outstanding example, tailored to address the unique challenges posed by climate change in the region.

Unboxing the Starlink hardware: Transitioning to Starlink ensures reliable and uninterrupted internet access, even in remote research sites. (Photo: ZARI/Zambia)
Q: What was ADCIN’s role in facilitating this strategic investment, and how does it fit into the broader vision of strengthening NARES institutions across Africa?

A: ADCIN plays a key role in supporting the development and modernization of NARES institutions across Africa. Its contributions can be seen in three key areas. First, ADCIN provides technical assistance by offering expertise in research infrastructure development. Second, it provides financial support by mobilizing the resources needed to upgrade facilities. Third, ADCIN provides strategic guidance, ensuring that investments are aligned with regional research priorities and agendas.

This support fits into the broader vision of strengthening NARES institutions across the continent. ADCIN’s efforts focus on improving research capacity through upgrading facilities and equipment, fostering collaboration by promoting regional and international partnerships, and improving research quality through stronger research management and governance. As a result of ADCIN’s support, NARES institutions such as ZARI have seen significant improvements. Research output and impact have increased, regional collaboration has been strengthened, and institutions now have better access to international funding. By supporting ZARI’s strategic investments, ADCIN reaffirms its commitment to strengthening NARES institutions and promoting excellence in agricultural research across Africa.

ADCIN strengthens agricultural capacity and resilience in sub-Saharan Africa

Written by dmedina on . Posted in Blogs.

The Africa Dryland Crops Improvement Network (ADCIN) emphasizes capacity building as a cornerstone for sustainable development and agricultural innovation. By addressing both human and infrastructure development, ADCIN is empowering research institutions and individuals across Africa to enhance agricultural practices, strengthen food security, and improve livelihoods in dryland regions.

In 2023, ADCIN made significant strides toward these goals by investing $1 million to strengthen National Agricultural Research and Extension Systems (NARES). This initiative focused on enhancing human capacity and infrastructure, equipping researchers, students, and institutions to address the unique challenges of dryland agriculture. The funding supported 32 awardees from East and Southern Africa (ESA) and West and Central Africa (WCA), including 15 visiting scientists, 7 students, 4 group training sessions, and 6 infrastructure development projects.

In 2024, ADCIN organized multiple training sessions in Senegal, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and Kenya, targeting seed system development, business sustainability, crop production improvements, and advanced data management techniques. These capacity-building efforts promoted knowledge sharing, collaborative research, and best practices in seed systems, crop breeding, agronomy, and data analytics. Four group training sessions were held: two in Kenya and Ethiopia for the ESA region, and two in Senegal and Nigeria for the WCA region.

Strengthening Seed Companies and CBOs for Growth in Nigeria

ADCIN, in collaboration with Syngenta Foundation Nigeria, hosted a two-day capacity-building workshop for seed companies and community-based organizations (CBOs) in Kano, Nigeria, on September 4–5. Supported by partners such as CDA, IITA, ICRISAT, and NASC, the workshop aimed to enhance seed production and commercialization efforts while promoting AVISA crops like sorghum, pearl millet, groundnut, and cowpea.

The workshop attracted 30 participants, including 20 CBOs and 10 seed companies, who were trained in topics such as seed production best practices, post-harvest handling, and seed certification standards. Key outcomes included the implementation of modern innovations like e-certification and seed tracking technologies, designed to improve transparency and efficiency in the seed sector.

Participants of the training in Nigeria on strengthening seed companies and community-based organizations (CBOs) to enhance seed production and commercialization effort (Photo: CIMMYT)

Participants were also introduced to the Farmers’ Hub concept, which offers smallholder farmers access to essential agricultural inputs, machinery, and market opportunities. Many participants expressed enthusiasm about using the Farmers’ Hub to expand their customer base and grow their businesses.

“The networking opportunities provided by this training have been invaluable. I’m looking forward to applying what I’ve learned and taking my business to the next level,” shared one participant.

The training is expected to have a lasting impact on seed quality and foster business growth in Nigeria. By equipping CBOs to transition into fully operational seed companies, ADCIN is advancing the sustainability of Nigeria’s seed industry. Participants are now better prepared to tackle challenges in seed production, marketing, and regulatory compliance, paving the way for a more resilient seed sector.

With the knowledge gained from the workshop, participants are now better prepared to address the challenges of seed production, marketing, and regulatory compliance, paving the way for a more resilient and robust seed industry in Nigeria. 

Promoting Crop Improvement in Senegal

From August 20-27, 2024, more than 50 breeding and crop protection technicians from nine West and Central African countries gathered in Saly, Senegal for a comprehensive training session. The training, co-funded by the AVISA project and organized by CIMMYT in collaboration with National Agricultural Research and Extension Systems (NARES) from nine West and Central African countries, including Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Ghana, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Togo, and Senegal, aimed to improve the efficiency of cowpea, groundnut, pearl millet, and sorghum breeding operations. 

Participants gained hands-on experience in key areas such as seed trial management, electronic data collection, and genotyping. These skills are essential for improving crop varieties and making them more resilient to local conditions. 

Field trips to Bambey, Senegal allowed participants to practice techniques such as setting up and managing seed trials, leaf sampling for genotyping, and electronic data collection using tablets making research more efficient and accurate. 

Participants of the training in Senegal on improving the efficiency of cowpea, groundnut, pearl millet and sorghum breeding operations (Photo: CIMMYT)

“This training has given me new insights into how we can improve our breeding programs and provide better seeds for our farmers. The practical sessions were particularly helpful,” said a participant.

By enhancing technicians’ skills in trial management and data collection, the training is expected to improve field data accuracy and contribute to the development of climate-resilient crop varieties, directly addressing regional food security challenges.

Enhancing Seed Producers’ Skills in Ethiopia

ADCIN held a three-day workshop in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from July 30 to August 1, 2024, focusing on building the capacity of the country’s seed producers. Organized in collaboration with the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR) and supported by CIMMYT, the workshop aimed to strengthen Ethiopia’s seed producers by improving their skills in key areas such as seed health management, seed business management, variety maintenance, breeder seed production, and postharvest handling. 

The training attracted 19 participants from both the public and private sectors, including seed companies, producer associations and research centers. The sessions provided critical insights into the management of seed-borne diseases such as mycotoxins and aflatoxins, which affect crops like sorghum, chickpea, beans, and finger millet. Participants learned how to incorporate seed health testing into Ethiopia’s national certification process, which will help ensure healthier seeds and increased crop productivity. 

Participants of the training in Ethiopia whose aim was to strengthen Ethiopia’s seed producers by improving their skills in key areas (Photo: Marion Aluoch/CIMMYT)

The seed business management session introduced participants to the Business Model Canvas (BMC), a framework for creating viable and demand-driven seed business models. By emphasizing sustainable practices in seed production, processing, and marketing, the training equipped participants with the tools they need to grow their seed businesses and contribute to Ethiopia’s growing agricultural sector. 

The workshop also discussed the importance of variety maintenance and breeder seed production, focusing on the genetic integrity of improved varieties. The postharvest handling session focused on seed storage techniques and pest management, helping participants in maintaining seed quality after harvest. 

“This workshop has really opened our eyes to new business strategies and how we can ensure that our seed businesses remain profitable and sustainable,” shared a representative from a local seed company. 

Through this training, ADCIN is supporting Ethiopia’s seed producers in their efforts to improve seed quality and business sustainability, thereby contributing to the long-term growth of the seed industry. 

Equipping Breeders with Advanced Data Management Skills in Kenya

ADCIN held a training on modern biometrics, quantitative genetics and data management in Nairobi, Kenya, from 10 to 14 June. This capacity-building initiative brought together 43 participants from nine Eastern and Southern African (ESA) countries, representing breeding leaders, data champions, and young breeders working on crops such as chickpea, finger millet, pearl millet, pigeonpea, and sorghum. 

Participants of the training in Kenya that focused on data-driven decision-making in breeding programs (Photo: CIMMYT)

The training focused on data-driven decision-making in breeding programs and covered topics such as experimental design, advanced data analysis using the CGIAR Breeding Analytical Pipeline, and managing genotype x environment (GxE) interactions. Participants learned about the Breeding Management System (BMS), quality control processes, and practical applications of the CGIAR Breeding Analytical Pipeline, which enhanced their ability to analyze large data sets and improve breeding accuracy across the CGIAR-NARES network. 

A Holistic Approach to Capacity Development

These training programs are just a small part of ADCIN’s broader initiative to build capacity across Africa’s dryland regions. These efforts, which focus on critical areas such as seed production, crop improvement, business sustainability, and data management, are helping to develop resilient agricultural systems capable of withstanding the challenges of dryland agriculture. As ADCIN works to strengthen robust and sustainable seed industries, these capacity-building programs will play an important role in increasing food security and improving the livelihoods of communities in Africa’s drylands. 

Climate Hits Barley, World Bank Boosts Gender Equality

Written by dmedina on . Posted in In the media.

Climate change-induced drought is jeopardizing barley production in Mexico’s Altiplano, which supplies 93% of the country’s barley, putting both local and global beer supplies at risk. To combat this, CIMMYT and Heineken Mexico have launched the “Cultivando un México Mejor” program, which promotes conservation agriculture practices to optimize water use, retain soil moisture, and increase yields. This initiative aims for 100% sustainably produced barley by 2030, helping farmers adapt to climate challenges while supporting the brewing industry’s sustainability goals.

Read the full story.

Machakos farmer reaps prosperity with new pigeon pea variety

Written by dmedina on . Posted in News.

In the heart of Ndeini village in Machakos County—a region in Kenya known for unpredictable weather and difficult farming conditions—farmer Festus Muthoka’s story is a testament to resilience and innovation. Festus transformed his livelihood by making strategic crop choices and adopting new pigeon pea varieties, resulting in higher yields and incomes.

“When I couldn’t find a job in Nairobi, I returned to the countryside and realized that the fields held more potential for me,” said Festus. For seven years, he had been growing maize, beans, and local pigeon pea, but inconsistent rainfall made it difficult to achieve the desired yields. Pigeon pea offered new hope, particularly when Festus discovered the new variety ‘Mituki.’

Festus Muthoka, a pigeon pea farmer in Machakos County, shows one of his pigeon pea crops on his farm. (Photo: Marion Aluoch/CIMMYT)

Mituki as a gamechanger

Unlike traditional pigeon pea, which takes up to nine months to mature, the Mituki variety matures in four and a half months and can be harvested two to three times a year. “The first year, I planted three lines of Mituki and saw its potential. It is more profitable to sell pigeon pea when it is green. This variety stays green for a long time, and the demand, especially in local hotels, is very high. I sold it for a good profit,” said Festus.

Now in his third year of cultivating Mituki, Festus has expanded his farm to 4-5 acres with plans to increase it to 10 acres in the next planting season. The financial gains have been substantial. “For my first harvest, I made over US $1,500 by selling green pigeon pea. Even after harvesting, the crop remains lush, allowing ongoing sales,” he said.

Festus’s story shows the importance of pigeon pea as an opportunity crop that meets the needs of farmers in challenging environments as well as in challenging economic times. Rael Karimi, a researcher and breeder at the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) in Katumani, played a key role in developing the Mituki variety. “When I first started working on the pigeon pea breeding program, we identified a gap in the local varieties, which took a whole year to mature. The commercial short-duration variety, which matures in three months, had small pods and grain, therefore not acceptable to farmers. Farmers needed early- to medium-maturing varieties with market- and farmer-preferred traits, such as larger grains and pods for ease of shelling for green vegetables. This resulted in the development and release of the Mituki variety in 2018,” she said.

Festus Muthoka harvests the pigeon pea pods on his farm. (Photo: Marion Aluoch/CIMMYT)

The development and promotion of new pigeon pea varieties involve extensive testing and active farmer participation. “We conducted on-station trials, followed by on-farm testing with farmers to ensure the varieties had the farmer-preferred traits. The Mituki variety is a medium-duration variety, giving two harvests per year, making it very popular among farmers,” Karimi added.

Creating awareness during field days

Promoting new varieties is equally important as developing them. “It’s one thing to release a variety but another to ensure promotion and popularization. If you release it and put it on the shelves, farmers will not be aware that a better variety is available,“ said Rael. This is where on-farm demonstrations and field days are crucial.

Field days are critical in ensuring that new, improved varieties reach the farmers who require them the most, bridging the gap between varietal development and practical application in the field. They also emphasize the importance of using high-quality seeds rather than recycled seeds, which often come with significant challenges.

A field day held in July in Ndeini village effectively raised awareness among numerous farmers about the benefits of the Mituki variety and how it can provide two harvests per year compared to their long-duration local varieties, which only give one harvest in a year.

Rael Karimi, a researcher and breeder at the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) in Katumani, engages with farmers during the pigeon pea farmers field day in Machakos County. (Photo: Marion Aluoch/CIMMYT)

Seed purity for improved yields

Chris Ojiewo, seed systems lead for the Dryland Crops program at CIMMYT, emphasizes the importance of maintaining seed purity and good farming practices. “Farmers often recycle seeds for years, resulting in cross-pollination and loss of desirable traits. We encourage them to regularly buy new seeds, which ensures high yield and disease resistance. With support from CIMMYT and the Accelerated Varietal Improvement and Seed Systems in Africa (AVISA) Project, we are now able to produce and distribute quality seeds to farmers,” he said.

Chris highlighted the challenges of recycling seeds. Genetic impurity is a significant concern due to pigeon pea outcrossing. It prevents such grains from entering the formal value chain and, as a result, reduces farmer profits. Additionally, recycled seeds may accumulate diseases and pests, diminishing crop health. Stored seeds can also have low germination capacity and vigor, leading to poor crop performance.

To address these issues, Chris advocates for behavior change communications to educate farmers on the benefits of using pure seeds. Linking farmers to formal seed value chains ensures that they understand the financial incentives of using pure seeds. Moreover, improving the production, availability, affordability, and timely supply of quality seeds can prevent the need for recycling.

Collaborative efforts in pigeon pea breeding

Ganga Rao, a pigeon pea breeder with the Dryland Crops program, explains how CIMMYT provides support to both farmers and researchers. “CIMMYT has been instrumental in advancing pigeon pea breeding programs by providing technical support and resources. We collaborate closely with local researchers at KALRO to ensure that the new varieties are tailored to the specific needs and conditions of the farmers,” he said.

Through the collaborative efforts of the pigeon pea CGIAR-NARES network, CIMMYT, under the AVISA project, has supported KALRO in producing pigeon pea seed for the Mituki variety. The promotion of this seed used small seed packets of 200g. This approach created demand for the new variety, with many farmers purchasing the seed ahead of the short rains 2024 cropping season. This is an indication that farmers are willing to buy certified seeds when they are made aware of improved varieties that offer both farmer- and market-preferred traits.

Ganga emphasized the importance of continuous improvement and farmer engagement. “Our goal is to develop varieties that are high yielding and resilient to climate stresses and diseases. Through on-farm trials and demonstrations, farmers provide us with valuable feedback, which informs our breeding programs. This collaborative approach ensures that the varieties we release meet the market demands and preferences,” he added.

Farmers and community members purchase the Mituki seeds during the farmers field day. (Photo: Ganga Rao/CIMMYT)

Ganga emphasized the importance of continuous improvement and farmer engagement. “Our goal is to develop varieties that are high yielding and resilient to climate stresses and diseases. Through on-farm trials and demonstrations, farmers provide us with valuable feedback which informs our breeding programs. This collaborative approach ensures that the varieties we release meet the market demands and preferences,” he added. 

The future of pigeon pea is bright

Festus’s success with Mituki variety demonstrates the potential of strategic crop selection and good agricultural practices. “I now see pigeon pea as a major agro-enterprise for food security and as a significant source of income. The market demand for green pigeon pea is high, and with proper seed management farmers can sustain and improve their livelihoods,” Festus concluded. 

Looking ahead, Karimi is optimistic that more farmers will adopt this new variety. “The future for pigeon pea is bright. We aim to have farmers producing throughout the year, meeting the high market demands and ensuring food security. By aggregating their produce, this will ensure adequate tradable volume which helps farmers negotiate for better prices and achieve greater financial stability,” she said. 

Ganga added, “CIMMYT’s ongoing support in seed production and farmer training is crucial. We are committed to empowering farmers with the knowledge and resources they need to maximize their yields and improve their livelihoods. Pigeon pea has the potential to transform the agricultural landscape in dryland regions.” 

Ganga Rao, a pigeon pea breeder with the Dryland Crops program in CIMMYT interacts with farmers during the farmers field day in Machakos. (Photo: Marion Aluoch/CIMMYT)

As Festus prepares to expand his farm and continue his journey, his story serves as an inspiration to many farmers in Ndeini and beyond. With support and innovations in crop breeding, farmers such as Festus are not only surviving but thriving, turning challenges into opportunities and paving the way for a prosperous future in agriculture.