Abstract

Root crops are important staple foods in almost all areas of Cameroon. To improve root-crop production, phase I carried out a national survey and cross bred a collection of local varieties with material selected from IITA (International Institute of Tropical Agriculture) seeds to combine disease resistance and high yield with the adaptability and acceptability of locally established varieties. Phase II will continue to increase root-crop production and identify desirable genetic attributes of root crops to generate elite varieties.

Post-Project Summary

Cassava seedling evaluation continued for high yields and disease and insect resistance. Improved agronomic techniques were developed for farmers in various agro-ecological areas. Researchers developed a method to enrich a popular cassava food with 10% soya flour to increase protein content. A cassava pulp dryer was also constructed. The fungus causing cocoyam root rot was identified, and cocoyam crosses resulted in some disease-resistant lines. Cropping techniques to reduce the incidence of root rot were tested on farms. Local elite yam varieties were selected and tested in different climatic zones. Over 200 tonnes of planting material was sold to farmers; a technical bulletin for yam growers was distributed; and plans to export yams to Nigeria began. Breeding programs continued for sweet potatoes. One clone, TIB-1, was noted for its adaptability to ecological conditions, virus and insect resistance, and consumer acceptability. Regional cropping methods were developed and superior lines of sweet potatoes were distributed to farmers. Research continued to a third phase.

Recipient Institution(s)