At their recent annual work planning meeting in Lagos, Nigeria, the IITA–CGIAR PROSSIVA project and partners reviewed past activities and strategized for the future to ensure synergy for the project’s growth and success.
The event started with celebrating first-year achievements, with stories of milestones reached and challenges surmounted. Each partner presented their contributions during the period in review, weaving a narrative of dedication and collective effort.
The team also addressed the future, discussing the implementation of cutting-edge technologies, market strategies, and institutional innovations. Participants brainstormed and shared insights, envisioning a future where their collaborative efforts would lead to transformative outcomes.
Jimmy Zidafamor, Director of the National Agricultural Seed Council (NASC), underscored the fruitful collaboration with PROSSIVA, emphasizing its role in bolstering yam production across Ghana and Nigeria. He highlighted the pivotal role of all stakeholders in developing superior varieties introduced into the seed system, emphasizing the responsibility of input providers in ensuring robust seed multiplication.
Zidafamor also shared experiences in yam production, detailing advancements in rapid multiplication technologies like hydroponics, aeroponics, temporary immersion bioreactor systems, and semi-autotrophic hydroponic systems. These innovations have significantly boosted the production of clean materials in substantial quantities.
Head of Tissue Culture at the National Center for Genetic Research and Biotechnology (NACGRAB), Dr Afolayan Adedotun, highlighted their contributions to IITA-PROSSIVA efforts in enhancing in-vitro materials, including nucleus and breeder seeds. She focused on their mandate of conserving genetic resources.
Adedotun emphasized their research employing conventional tissue culture technology as the foundation for transitioning plant materials from ex-vitro to in-vitro.
PROSSIVA Project Lead Morufat Balogun underscored the achievement of a clear work plan to efficiently deliver improved, quality-assured seeds to farmers. She outlined the forthcoming goal to engage seed stakeholders not directly involved in PROSSIVA’s research team, educating them about technological, marketing, and institutional innovations. The objective is to enhance income and livelihood through initiatives promoting awareness and evidence-based research, encouraging stakeholders to embrace seed yam entrepreneurship.
The meeting showcased a vibrant collaboration fostering innovation and growth within the agricultural landscape, laying the groundwork for future advancements and sustainability.
Contributed by Victoria Adabale