Online Reporter
Felistas Tavarera
Agriculture Correspondent
THE Crop Breeding Institute (CBI) has introduced three high-performance soyabean varieties, Ngongoni, Mhene and Mhembwe.
Soyabean crop breeder, Mr Dunmore Munyonho, said the varieties had demonstrated exceptional traits, making them ideal for various ecological regions and suitable for small-scale commercial farmers.
“The Ngongoni, Mhene and Mhembwe soyabean varieties possess several key features that make them stand out. They exhibit remarkable drought tolerance, ensuring optimal performance even in water-scarce conditions.
“This feature is particularly important in regions where water availability is limited, and farmers often struggle to maintain crop yields,” he said.
Mr Munyonho said the varieties were bred to thrive in diverse ecological regions, making them versatile for different farming environments.
This adaptability enables farmers to grow soyabeans in various parts of the country, increasing the crop’s potential for widespread adoption.
“The Ngongoni, Mhene, and Mhembwe soyabean varieties are bred for resilience and high yields, providing farmers with reliable and productive crops. This feature is crucial for ensuring food security and improving farmers’ livelihoods,” he said.
The varieties have excellent oil and protein content, making them suitable for various industrial applications.
Soyabean is a valuable crop for both food and industrial purposes, and the high oil and protein content of these varieties will increase their value to farmers and industries.
“The varieties exhibit good pod clearance and size, facilitating efficient harvesting and processing. This feature will reduce labour costs and increase the efficiency of soyabean production, making it more attractive to farmers,” he added.
“The introduction of these high-performance soyabean varieties is expected to have a significant impact on farmers and the economy. With improved yields, resilience, and adaptability, farmers can increase their productivity and income.
Mr Munyonho said the industrial applications of soyabeans, including oil and protein production would also contribute to the country’s economic growth.
He said the development of these varieties was a testament to the importance of agricultural research and innovation in driving progress and sustainability.
“The Government’s commitment to supporting agricultural development through research and innovation is a welcome move.
The introduction of these soyabean varieties is a significant step towards achieving sustainable agricultural development and improving the livelihoods of farmers. As farmers adopt these varieties, we can expect to see improved productivity, increased food security, and enhanced economic benefits,” he said.
The new soyabean varieties are set to revolutionise agricultural production in the country.
The Government’s commitment to supporting agricultural development through research and innovation has improved productivity, food security and enhanced economic benefits to farmers.
