Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute

Researchers from the Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI) - Ukiriguru Center in Mwanza, Internationa Institute for Tropical Agriculture (IITA) - Dar Es Salaam and Nigeria, National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI) - Nigeria and National Horticultural Research Institute (NIHORT) – Nigeria met at Victoria Palace Hotel, Mwanza from 26 – 27 Sept 2024 for the training. The training focused on the use of rapid multiplication tunnel technology for cassava seed production. The training was given by Dr. Erick Delaquis and Dr. Roosevelt Perel who are the founder of the technology both worked for Alliance Biodiversity International and CIAT based in Laos Republic and Colombia respectively.

Tunnel system was previously developed for cassava rapid seed multiplication. Multiplication rate said to be 1:100 compared to conventional/ field multiplication 1:10 within a year. This is achieved by using short cuttings with at least two nodes planted horizontally with a high possibility of each node to develop into a stem under high temperature and humidity. Nowadays the technology extended to other vegetative propagated crops including banana and sweet potato.

During the training, participants were able to learn the concept of the technology, basic requirements for tunnel construction and share experience on seed system for banana, cassava, sweet potato and Yam. Also, they visited TARI Ukiriguru Centre for the practical section. Two tunnel systems were constructed at the Centre each for cassava and sweet potato seed multiplication.

Speaking at the official opening of the training Mr. Peter Kasele acting Mwanza Regional Administrative Secretary said, ‘the technology is going to revolutionize cassava and sweet potato production in Lake Zone by increasing timely availability of quality seed’. Dr. Paul Saidia, TARI Ukiriguru Centre director congratulated the team and said, ‘the technology will reduce the use of poor-quality seed, hence increase production and improve farmer’s livelihood in Lake zone and Tanzania in general’. Participants also, acknowledge the workshop as it provided a good learning experience.

The training was coordinated by Alliance Biodiversity International and CIAT in collaboration with IITA and TARI.