Genetically modified maize tested in Chokwe

Testing of genetically modified maize is taking place at the Chokwe Agricultural Station, in the southern province of Gaza. The purpose is to identify a strain of maize, suited to Mozambican agro-ecological conditions that can tolerate drought and resist insect pests.
The first sowing of this trial maize, imported from the United States, took place in Chokwe on 18 February, in the experimental field run by the Mozambican Agricultural Research Institute (IIAM). It is part of the programme WEMA (Water Efficient Maize for Africa).
WEMA involves researchers from the IIAM, Tanzania, South Africa, Kenya and Uganda. The Chokwe experimental field was established recently by the IIAM specifically for trials of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs).
The first sowing was focused on a strain of the crop resistant to insects. Drought tolerant strains will be planted during the cool, dry season when, in much of Gaza, there is virtually no rainfall at all.

AIM

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