Nigerian farmers to get gm cowpea seeds by 2020 aatf

A great development!

According to reports, the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) has announced that Nigerian farmers will have access to genetically modified (GM) cowpea seeds by 2020. This is a significant breakthrough in the country's agricultural sector, as cowpea is a staple crop for many Nigerians.

Here are some key details about this development:

  1. GM cowpea seeds: The GM cowpea seeds have been developed to resist the cowpea pod borer, a major pest that can cause significant yield losses. The seeds will also have improved resistance to other pests and diseases.
  2. AATF's role: AATF is a non-profit organization that aims to improve agricultural productivity and food security in Africa. The foundation has been working with international partners to develop and commercialize GM cowpea seeds.
  3. Nigeria's significance: Nigeria is the largest producer of cowpea in the world, accounting for over 20% of global production. The country's farmers will be the first to benefit from the GM cowpea seeds, which will help increase their yields and reduce post-harvest losses.
  4. Benefits: The GM cowpea seeds are expected to bring several benefits to Nigerian farmers, including:
    • Increased yields: The seeds will help farmers produce more cowpea, which will increase their income and improve food security.
    • Reduced pesticide use: The seeds will reduce the need for pesticides, which will minimize environmental pollution and improve public health.
    • Improved food safety: The seeds will help reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses by reducing the presence of pests and diseases in cowpea.
  5. Commercialization: The GM cowpea seeds will be commercialized through a public-private partnership between AATF, the Nigerian government, and private seed companies.

Overall, the introduction of GM cowpea seeds in Nigeria is a significant step towards improving the country's agricultural productivity and food security.