Why it matters?

Climate change is increasing heat and rainfall variability, making maize production more difficult for smallholder farmers in South Africa. These farmers depend on maize for food and income, but drought and heat stress often cause major yield losses. Developing maize varieties that can tolerate drought, heat, and low soil fertility helps protect harvests and reduce reliance on costly inputs like fertiliser and pesticides. This project supports more stable yields, improved food security, and greater resilience for farming communities facing the growing challenges of a changing climate.

Research approach

The project combines advanced breeding, molecular tools, and multi-location field testing to develop maize varieties tolerant to drought, heat, and low soil fertility. Germplasm from CIMMYT and ARC is incorporated into the Sensako breeding programme to increase genetic diversity. Promising lines are screened under managed and natural stress conditions across South Africa and Kenya to identify superior inbreds and hybrids with strong agronomic performance, disease resistance, and adaptability.

Research impact to farmers

This project directly benefits smallholder producers by delivering maize hybrids specifically bred for harsh growing conditions. Unlike commercial hybrids, the selected varieties perform well in low rainfall and high temperature environments and have shown strong disease resistance. Farmers gain access to locally tested seed that not only survives under stress but also competes with commercial hybrids in high-potential areas. The use of smallholder-representative production practices in field trials ensures that the final varieties are practical and relevant. With seed increases underway, these hybrids will help reduce risk, improve food security, and increase productivity for smallholder farming systems.

Resources

Reports

Interim findings reported to funders and collaborators (available upon request)

Collaborators & research leads with collaborative institutions

Principal investigators

• Mr Roean Wessels-Syngenta
• Dr Francois Koekemoer- Stellenbosch University

Collaborating institutions

• Syngenta
• Stellenbosch University

Technicians

• Mr. Sihle Nwamba
• Mr. Ruben Niemann
• Mr. Driecus Coertzen
• Mr. Samuel Ndweni
• Mr. Petrus Mtimkhulu
• Mr. Calvin Radebe