Rwanda pursues nutritional gains through bio-fortified potatoes

RWANDA – Rwanda has embarked on an ambitious agricultural initiative to address malnutrition and enhance food security by developing bio-fortified Irish potato varieties.

These enhanced potatoes, enriched with essential nutrients like iron and zinc, are undergoing trials across multiple research stations, with the goal of national adoption by 2026.

Telesphore Ndabamenye, the Director General of the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB), emphasized the importance of these potatoes in improving public health.

“Bio-fortified potatoes are crucial in combating malnutrition, especially among children and pregnant women in Rwanda,” he said.

The effort aligns with similar initiatives promoting other nutrient-rich crops, such as vitamin A-enriched sweet potatoes and fortified beans.

Currently, 12 bio-fortified potato clones are being tested in locations like Kinigi, Rwerere, and Gakuta to evaluate their performance and yield potential. Early results are promising, with yields reaching up to 20 tonnes per hectare.

Researchers will select the best-performing varieties for national trials, aiming for official release during the 2026 agricultural season.

Bio-fortification, achieved through either traditional breeding methods or genetic engineering, aims to improve nutrient content in crops.

These enhanced crops play a critical role in reducing stunting, boosting immunity, and addressing anemia. Rwanda is also exploring genetically modified (GM) potato varieties resistant to late blight, a fungal disease that can destroy up to 100% of a potato crop if untreated.

The collaboration with the International Potato Center (CIP) has been instrumental in introducing these nutrient-rich potato clones.

Farmers are optimistic about the prospect of disease-resistant varieties, which could simultaneously increase productivity.

Trials for GM potatoes are set to begin in February 2025 in the Musanze District, following approval from the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA).

Athanas Nduwumuremyi, the “Roots and Tubers” program coordinator at RAB, highlighted the broader implications of these efforts.

“These potatoes will offer a sustainable solution to the challenges farmers face with the current varieties,” he explained.

The GM varieties will be based on locally popular potatoes, such as the Victoria variety, known for its adaptability and high yield.

Reducing the reliance on pesticides is another significant advantage of GM potato varieties. Farmers have long struggled with the high costs and environmental impact of chemical treatments required to combat late blight.

Additionally, the reduced use of pesticides could help reverse the decline of the bee population in Rwanda, which has negatively affected honey production.

“The adoption of GM potatoes has the potential to boost honey production and restore ecological balance,” Nduwumuremyi noted, underscoring the dual benefits for agriculture and the environment.

 

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