IRMA Project

The Drought Tolerant Maize for Africa Initiative

Water Efficient Maize for Africa Project (WEMA)

Maize is the most important cereal crop for food in sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America, and a key feed crop in Asia. Declining soil fertility and environmental stresses affect crop production and health in less developed regions. Climate change and degraded soils threaten the food security of millions, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. Lack of access to seed and other inputs, underdeveloped markets, and low investment in research and extension worsen farmers’ marginalization in low-income countries.

• Uses maize genetic resources to provide diverse, high-yielding varieties that withstand infertile soils, drought, insect pests, and diseases.
• Conducts crop and natural resource management research to help farmers exploit the full potential of improved seed and to preserve and enhance soil and water resources.
• Explores new market opportunities for smallholder farmers.
• Works with a range of partners to generate and share knowledge and techniques, ensuring that research results reach farmers’ fields and make a difference.
• Offers a rich assortment of training opportunities in maize breeding and crop management research (in-service courses, visiting scientist appointments, pre- and post-doctoral fellowships, among others).

Partnership for impact
Partners include national agricultural research institutions, non-government and community-based organizations, seed sector organizations, regional research networks, other CGIAR centers, private companies, and advanced research institutions world-wide. Generous support for the Program’s work comes from the national governments, international funding organizations, foundations, and agencies, and private companies.

Project responsibilities

Staff

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