With local partner FOFIFA we released two new lowland varieties in 2021 that have improved adaptation to the low-input conditions prevailing on small-holder farms in Madagascar, yet are responsive to improved soil fertility or fertilizer inputs.
Final evaluation of new varieties together with local checks. In the foreground is FyVary 85, the highest yielding entry with 20% higher yield compared to local check X265 (3rd on the left with yellowish straw). FyVary 32 (2nd on left and last on right) with 16% yield advantage and best response to improved soil fertility.
Varieties were officially released during a ceremony on November 4th hosted by FOFIFA and attended by the general secretaries of the ministries of education and of agriculture, who handed over the newly released varieties in a symbolic gesture to farmer representatives. The event was covered by the national press.