Nigeria pioneers zinc biofortified rice in Africa

Nigeria, like many African countries, grapples with micronutrient deficiencies, including zinc, iron, and vitamin A. According to the 2021 National Food Consumption Survey, children aged 6-59 months, adolescent girls (10-14 years), and women of reproductive age suffer from zinc deficiencies.

To tackle this widespread issue, HarvestPlus Nigeria partnered with the National Cereals Research Institute and other stakeholders to develop zinc-enriched rice varieties. Leveraging lines from Bangladesh and India, extensive trials have been conducted, with an anticipated release of first zinc rice variety by 2025.

Notably, HarvestPlus has adopted cost-effective strategies and collaborated with national research institutes. This initiative marks a significant milestone in combating micronutrient deficiencies in Nigeria and accelerating the commercialization of biofortified rice. Watch the poster presentation by Dr. Yusuf Dollah Fu'ad for more details.
#Nourish2025 #Biofortification #ZincRice #NutritionSecurity

Видео Nigeria pioneers zinc biofortified rice in Africa канала HarvestPlus