maize Archives - Page 2 of 4

Scientists call for new Striga-resistant and drought-tolerant genes in bi-parental maize populations

R4D Special Scientists say that genomic selection is effective for yield improvement in bi-parental maize populations infested by Striga and drought. This conclusion was made in a study titled “Yield gains and associated changes in an early yellow bi-parental maize population following genomic selection for Striga resistance and drought tolerance.” The study was carried out…

Sasakawa Global 2000 appreciates collaboration with IITA

“Sasakawa Global 2000 (SG 2000) recognizes the relevance and importance of IITA to its extension service delivery and appreciates the continued positive partnership with IITA.” A senior management team of Sasakawa Africa Association (SAA) stated this on 5 July, during a visit to the IITA Kano Station in Northern Nigeria. Mr Osaka Katsuhiro, Senior Executive…

R4D Special: Scientists discover factors influencing FAW damage in African maize fields in Eastern Zimbabwe

Since the presence of the fall armyworm (FAW, Spodoptera frugiperda J.E. Smith) was reported in Central and Western Africa in early 2016, and later in most of sub-Saharan Africa, it has become a serious threat to food security in the region. Although the immediate reaction of governments was to invest in chemical pesticides and their…

IITA scientists recommend packaging and storage for yellow-seeded maize flour

Research has shown that compared to other packaging and storage facilities, polyvinyl plastic containers (PPC) and dark compartment storage have the highest retention of Pro-vitamin A carotenoid (pVAC) and xanthophylls in yellow-seeded maize. Pro-vitamin A carotenoid (pVAC) foods contribute to the reduction of vitamin A deficiency diseases within the human body. Yellow-seeded maize flour, being…

MAIZE announces 2019 Youth Innovators Awards – Africa

IITA has developed a reputation as an organization that provides equal opportunities for every willing person to learn and grow. Apart from the regular staff, IITA has a training mandate that provides opportunity for young people to work as interns and volunteers. Volunteering at IITA allows a volunteer to interact with professionals from different backgrounds,…

IITA scientists develop multiple stress tolerant maize hybrids with high levels of Pro-Vitamin A

Vitamin A deficiency is a major health problem in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Striga hermonthica (Giant Witchweed) and drought are two major constraints to maize production in the sub-region. Development and deployment of multiple stress tolerant maize hybrids with high levels of Pro-Vitamin A (PVA) offers a solution to food insecurity and malnutrition in SSA. The…