Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute

The Ministry of Agriculture is planning to establish Gene Bank in 2024/2025 financial year. The Government has selected the TARI Selian Center to host   Gene Bank establishment. The Gene Bank will store and conserve the plant genetic resources for crops under TARI mandates.

To familiarize with operations of gene banks in other institutions, a team of researchers led by Dr. Shadrack Mbapila, Coordinator for Research and Innovation (CRI) has visited World Vegetable Centre and National Plant Genetic Resource Center (NPGRC). At World Vegetable Centre, TARI Selian researchers were given detailed information by Head of Gene Bank, Dr. Sognigbe N’Danikou on how the institution operates the Gene Bank and at NPGRC; the curator Dr. Mujuni Kabululu shared comprehensive knowledge on importance of Gene Bank for implementation of TARI mission and vision.

From these two crucial visits, researchers from TARI Selian have learnt extensively on key functions of gene banks; specification standards for establishment and facilities; standard requirements for short, medium and long term storage of plant genetic resources; investment needed for the smooth operations for gene bank and; skills and knowledge needed to operate the gene bank for end results

Through the acquired knowledge from other well-experienced institutions, TARI Selian researchers are in good position to propose the site for construction of gene bank establishment; propose the facilities and equipment needed; propose on skills and knowledge needed to operate gene bank.

                    Through two visits, researchers from TARI Selian Center have lernt extensively how standard Gene Bank operates