News Overview

From 2 to 5 September 2025, the IITA–CGIAR Biotechnology program hosted a four-day training workshop on Genome Editing in Nairobi, Kenya. The workshop brought together young African scientists from Burundi, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zimbabwe, eager to deepen their knowledge and practical skills in this technology. The workshop blended theory with practice. Participants explored the foundations of CRISPR/Cas systems. They

Cassava is the second crop in production volume with an average production of 6.3 million metric tons, and the third most important staple food crop after maize and rice in Tanzania. About 1.9 million stakeholders are involved in business throughout the cassava value chain. The crop’s position signifies the need for strengthening the opportunities for its commercialization for increased government

In a recent study conducted in northern Uganda, researchers have confirmed that the region is a hyperendemic area for the pork tapeworm, or Taenia solium. The study found a prevalence of 17.4% for porcine cysticercosis, an infection in pigs caused by the tapeworm. Additionally, pigs that were free roaming, provided with borehole water or from households that lacked a toilet

The IITA–CGIAR biotechnology program has officially launched a new Genome Engineering website. A dynamic digital platform showcasing cutting-edge science that is shaping the future of crops in Africa. The website serves as a hub for knowledge, bringing together information on IITA’s pioneering work in genome engineering and precision breeding in bananas, yams, legumes, and other staple crops. It highlights how researchers are rewriting the

This agreement updates the initial agreement signed in 1987 and provides a better framework for the Alliance to continue its impactful research and development activities within Malawi, ensuring the continuation of long-term collaboration on transforming food systems and landscapes to better nourish people, sustain the planet, and drive prosperity in the face of a climate crisis. “The signing of this

Kenya’s livestock sector plays a critical role in the country’s social, economic, environmental and public health landscape, contributing 3.8% to the gross domestic product and 17.3% of agricultural value added. However, the sector’s productivity and sustainability are significantly hindered by the high cost of animal feeds. A new policy brief by the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) and partners puts

On 10 September 2025, the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) announced the launch of a three-year, US$3.35 million project, Accelerating Reduced Emissions in Indigenous Breeds in Africa. The project is funded by the Bezos Earth Fund and the Global Methane Hub. Part of the Global Methane Genetics Initiative, the project will use cutting-edge science to help African countries breed cattle

To mark the United Nations Day for South–South Cooperation 2025, ICRISAT organized a high-level webinar on “Scalable Solutions for Crop Improvement and Production Technologies for the Global South” under the aegis of the ICRISAT Center of Excellence for South–South Cooperation in Agriculture (ISSCA) on 12 September 2025. Chaired by Dr Himanshu Pathak, Director General, ICRISAT, the inaugural session set the