Abstract

The four most important root and tuber crops produced and consumed in Cameroon are cassava, coco yams, yams, and sweet potatoes. Production of these crops suffers from a variety of problems. The key to solving them may be in improving the research capacity in Cameroon. The general objective of this project is to assist in the development of a cadre of Cameroonian national researchers sufficiently trained to play a major role in increasing production of the four major root crops. Programs will be carried out in liaison with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture.

Post-Project Summary

A survey of over 540 farms in Cameroon was undertaken to show crop distribution as well as major diseases. Eighty local varieties of cassava were crossbred to combine high yield, disease resistance, and overall acceptability. Studies of yield losses due to leaf disease were undertaken, as well as intercropping trials. Research for cocoyams included studies of root-rot disease symptoms, areas of occurrence and causes. Fungicides, chemicals and cultivation methods were tested as disease controls. For yams, researchers assessed planting techniques, intercropping and fertilizer trials, and the economics of production. Sweet potato research concentrated on breeding programs for high yield and resistance to virus and sweet potato weevil. High yielding clones were also distributed to farmers. Research was carried to a second phase.

Recipient Institution(s)