Development and transfer of genetically modified virus-resistant sweet potato for subsistence farmers in Kenya.
Up to 80% of the yield of sweet potato, the major root crop in East Africa, can be destroyed by crop diseases such as the sweet potato feathery mottle virus (SPFMV). A sweet potato that is resistant to SPFMV is being developed through the combined efforts of non-governmental agenices, biotechnology groups, and agricultural entities. Even small improvements in crop yield, owing to this new technology, will feed countless people in Africa.
Wambugu
Florence M
FM
Harvest Biotech Foundation International, P.O. Box 642 Village Market, 00621 Nairobi, Kenya.
D005818:Genetic Engineering; D027723:Ipomoea batatas / Q000235:genetics* / Q000254:growth & development / Q000821:virology*; D007630:Kenya; D010935:Plant Diseases / Q000235:genetics*; D010942:Plant Viruses; D030821:Plants, Genetically Modified