DRSS promotes high iron beans

 

Felistas Tavarera

Agriculture Correspondent

THE Department of Research and Specialist Services (DRSS) under the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development has developed High Iron Bean (HIB) varieties that are resistant to pests and diseases to increase yields and enhance food security.

This is part of the Government’s efforts to climate-proof agriculture and enhance the livelihoods of smallholder farmers.

Addressing farmers at a field day at Nyamhemba Irrigation Scheme on Thursday, DRSS director Mr Washington Mubvekeri said the department had been designated as the strategic partner to advance the Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT) II High Iron Bean (HIB) initiatives from 2023 to 2025.

“We are committed to ensuring that our agricultural practices are sustainable and resilient to climate change,” he said.

“The DRSS has made significant progress in common bean breeding, developing varieties that are resistant to pests and diseases, such as the Bean Stem Maggot (BSM). These improved varieties have the potential to increase crop yields and enhance food security.

“Our goal is to ensure smallholder farmers have access to improved crop varieties and the knowledge they need to adopt sustainable agricultural practices.

“Government’s efforts to promote agricultural transformation are not only improving food security but also enhancing the livelihoods of smallholder farmers. By adopting sustainable agricultural practices, farmers can increase their crop yields and improve their income.”

He said the project was conducted through a Participatory Variety Selection approach, which actively involves farmers and value chain actors in evaluating and selecting bio-fortified bean lines.

“This inclusive process ensures selected varieties are well suited to our unique agricultural environments and meet the needs of the farming community,” he said.

The TAAT II HIB project has been instrumental in promoting the adoption of climate-smart varieties and improving farmers’ access to these improved seeds.