Tanzanian Yam, Taro Farmers Benefit From New Technology
University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) scientists have been conducting research on yams and taros to assure farmers of supply of seedlings to increase production.
This is important taking into account the fact that poor crop varieties, bad farming methods and outdated technologies have been hindering agricultural development.
Yam and taros have been given little attention by authorities and are therefore under-researched despite being highly demanded by consumers.
Scientists say the crops are drought-resistant and can easily withstand climate change.
They are less vulnerable to pests and can thrive even without fertilisers. The project on improving yam and taro productivity in Tanzania is being undertaken by the Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology of the College of Natural and Applied Sciences.
Jacqueline