Study on the Economic Impacts of Drought Tolerant Corn in Africa

Drought tolerant corn is expected to bring tremendous impact to the drought-prone areas of Africa. Thus, Tim Dalton, an international development specialist of the Kansas State Research and Extension, will be conducting studies to calculate the potential economic impacts of drought-tolerant corn and will estimate the distribution of those benefits in target African countries. "Corn is an incredibly important food source in many African countries," he said, adding that about 50 percent of the calories consumed in some African countries come from corn-based products. In addition, about 40 percent of the area planted to maize is produced in dryland areas in Africa which is prone to drought without irrigation.

The two-year research effort is funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Countries of Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Mozambique, and South Africa will be included in calculating the potential impact on producers and consumers of maize developed through the Water Efficient Maize for Africa (WEMA).

"The data and statistics we collect on the economic impacts of drought-tolerant maize will help policymakers and other stakeholders make informed decisions about the appropriate levels of investment and support needed to help the distribution of these varieties and hybrids," Dalton said.

See the story at http://www.ksre.ksu.edu/news/story/African_corn012510.aspx