The maize program in Kenya
1986
Mwenda, E.W. (Embu Agricultural Research Station (Kenya))
Maize is the most important crop in Kenya and it is grown on about 1.5 million hectares. Kenya's maize breeding program has released more than ten improved hybrids and varieties for commercial production. The yields of early hybrids were 30 to 80% higher than those of local varieties. Hybrids recently released are at least 20% better than these early ones. Some results of the late-maturity, intermediate-maturity, and early-maturity maize breeding programs are discussed by the author; maize breeding programs to develop varieties well adapted to the coastal zone and high-altitude zone have been started. The essential features of the whole breeding program are: evaluation of local and exotic materials, formation of two or more composites of the selected material, use of recurrent selection in the populations, and release of a commercial variety as a cross of two populations. Seed production and distribution have played an important role in the success of maize production in Kenya. Various agencies are involved in this well-organized activity. The maize agronomy research program has worked to identify the factors that limit maize yields. Extension programs to disseminate research information have also been conducted
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