Improved Maize Varieties Boost Yields and Farm Income
April 9, 2025| |
A study conducted by researchers from the University of KwaZulu-Natal and the University of Limpopo (Turfloop Campus) evaluated the impact of improved maize varieties (IMVs) on agricultural productivity and technical efficiency in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The adopted IMVs include open-pollinated, hybrid, and genetically modified (GM) varieties.
The study highlighted how the adoption of IMVs significantly boosts yields and farm income among smallholder farmers. On average, yields increased by 1.92 kg/ha, with returns of ZAR 468.01 per hectare. Key drivers of adoption include education, larger farm size, access to quality seeds, and extension services. The challenges that continue to hinder adoption include limited rainfall, credit access, and market distance.
Technical efficiency among farmers was found to be relatively high at 74%, but factors such as age, education, and access to services were found to significantly reduce technical efficiency. The findings revealed that adopting advanced technologies led to better resource use and productivity compared to traditional systems. The researchers recommend targeted support in the form of better access to extension services, financial support, infrastructure, and education to further improve adoption, technical efficiency, productivity, and income.
For more information, read the article from GM Crops & Food.
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