B4FA Fellow Lominda Afedraru writes:
Cassava is a major staple food for millions of people in the tropical regions of the world.
In Uganda it is a major food crop for people in East and Northern Uganda. But it is particularly important for people in the West Nile region, with families preparing it as a main course, accompanied by dry fish or smoked beef. It’s prepared with peanut butter, fried beans, green vegetable stew and other sauces.
However, production of cassava is significantly hampered by Cassava Brown Streak Virus (CBSV) and Ugandan cassava brown streak virus (UCBSV), which have devasted yields in the East African region. And farmers are eagerly awaiting new varieties – including the potential for GMO versions – with stronger defenses. Read more