Researchers in Uganda developed a new variety of potatoes resistant to late blight, a disease responsible for wiping out a third of all potato yields worldwide.
The new potato variety is almost identical to a popular local variety, with one crucial difference. It contains three genes from a potato relative that provide it with complete resistance to the late blight pathogen.
Potatoes are a staple crop in the region and the new variety is poised to boost yields dramatically while reducing the need for fungicide. It can also provide a promising source of low-fat nutrition. Additionally, potatoes and root crops offer a significant advantage over other staples like rice and wheat. They can produce more food with less land and less water.
What do you think? Could blight-resistant potatoes help feed the growing population in Africa? Please leave your feedback in the comments below.