Business
Cameroon Adopts IITA’s Cassava Varieties
The Cameroonian Government has released five new improved
cassava varieties to help improve the food security of millions of people in
the country.
The varieties which were developed through conventional
breeding by the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) and
partners are recognised as IITA genotypes as TMS 92/0326, TMS 96/1414, TMS
96/0023, TMS 92/0057, and TMS 92/0067.
The improved varieties were released by the Cameroonian
Minister for Agriculture, Mr. Essimi Menye; and the Permanent Secretary, Ms
Ebelle Etame Rebecca, who represented the Minister of Research and Scientific
Innovations.
With an estimated yield of between 20 tons and 35 tons per
hectare, the improved varieties have improved nutritional qualities and are
rich in caratenoids, iron and zinc.
Director General of IITA, Dr Nteranya Sanginga, said the
varieties would help close the yield gaps, improve yield and put more money in
farmers’ pockets.