Uganda GM maize trials show promise

Results from the ongoing confined trials in Uganda on genetically modified maize that is resistant to the stem-borer are having promising results with the transgenic lines planted early this year showing complete resistance to the pest.

Ugandan scientists introduced Bacillus Thuringiensis, a naturally occurring soil bacteria that protects crops against pests, to maize stock obtained from South Africa to create resistance to the devastating stalk-borers (Chilo partellus and Busseola fusca). The trials are part of a three-year research project under the Water Efficient Maize for Africa (WEMA) project that started in 2008.

WEMA is a sub-regional, public-private partnership project between the Nairobi-based African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) and national agro-research systems of five sub-Saharan African countries — Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Mozambique and South Africa.Continue reading