LUANAR To Conduct Maize Trials

Lilongwe University of Agriculture of Natural Resources (LUANAR) will conduct maize trials on Biotechnology with an aim of solving challenges that lower yield of the staple crop.

LUANAR Senior Lecturer in Biotechnology and Molecular Biology, Dr Abel Sefasi, says the research is supported by with support from National Commission for Science and Technology and Open Forum for Agriculture Biotechnology (OFAB)

Sefasi says Malawi stands to benefit of lot from research which is expected to spawn genetically modified maize that is resistant to adverse climate change conditions.

Speaking in Lilongwe on the sidelines of 2023 OFAB day celebrations, says introduction of genetically modified crops like maize brings in a new aspect in addressing food security problems

Sefasi who at the ceremony was awarded as Malawi’s hero for biotechnology, bemoaned lack of awareness despite the country having enabling policies, laws and regulations since 2002.

Director General for NCST Gift Kadzamira said Malawi is privileged to host this year’s OFAB celebrations which are poised to raise more awareness on importance of agricultural biotechnology.

Kadzamira said the commission has so far supported research on BT Cotton and BT Cowpea seeds whose results have been so promising as such they will render similar efforts on maize trials.