Developing Bt maize for resource-poor farmers – Recent advances in the IRMA project

Abstract

This paper presents an overview of the advances in the IRMA project, which develops insect resistant maize
varieties for resource-poor farmers, using both conventional breeding and genetic engineering. The project
started in 1999 and is active in product development, impact assessment, and communication, all within the
Kenya regulatory framework. So far, four application for introduction of tissue or commencement of field
research were made to and approved by the National Biosafety Committee (NBC), and Bt maize leaves or
seeds genes imported for testing against different stem borer species in bioassays on cut leaves in a
biosafety laboratory, in potted plants in a Biosafety Greenhouse, and as whole plants in confined field trials in
the Open Quarantine Station (OQS) at KARI Kiboko. All these biosafety facilities were specially built by the
project for these evaluations. So far, good control has been realized against four of the five major stem borer
species: Chilo partellus, Chilo orichalcociliellus, Eldana saccharina and Sesamia calamistis. Economic impact
assessment demonstrated that stem borers are major constraints and cause substantial losses. Resistant
maize varieties are likely to be adopted and to provide major returns to the investment if resistance against the
economically most important species, Busseola fusca, can be found. Otherwise, returns would still be positive
but small. Environmental impact research indicate that build-up of resistance against the Bt genes has not
developed after that sufficient natural refugia exist in most areas, but suitable strategies acceptable to farmers
need to be developed for some. Surveys, stakeholders meetings and other communications indicate that
farmers, consumers and other stakeholders are cautiously optimistic about technology. Frequent interaction
with the stakeholders and regulatory agencies assures a participative decision-making process and
compliance with the strictest scientific and regulatory standards.