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Adopting yield-improving practices to meet maize demand in Sub-Saharan Africa without cropland expansion

Agriculture

Adopting yield-improving practices to meet maize demand in Sub-Saharan Africa without cropland expansion

F. Aramburu-merlos, F. A. M. Tenorio, et al.

In the face of a projected 2.3-fold increase in maize demand in Sub-Saharan Africa over the next 30 years, this groundbreaking research conducted by Fernando Aramburu-Merlos, Fatima A. M. Tenorio, Nester Mashingaidze, Alex Sananka, Stephen Aston, Jonathan J. Ojeda, and Patricio Grassini reveals that optimized cultivation practices could potentially double yields, adding an impressive 82 million tons of maize without expanding current farmland.

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Playback language: English
Abstract
Maize demand in Sub-Saharan Africa is projected to surge 2.3-fold over the next 30 years. Current maize production relies heavily on land expansion rather than yield increases. This study leverages data from 14,773 smallholder fields to identify agronomic practices that can significantly boost yields. The findings indicate that optimized cultivar selection, nutrient management, pest control, and overall crop management can potentially double on-farm yields, adding 82 million tons of maize within the existing cultivated area. The research emphasizes the need for targeted investments in agricultural practices proven to enhance maize yields in the region.
Publisher
Nature Communications
Published On
May 27, 2024
Authors
Fernando Aramburu-Merlos, Fatima A. M. Tenorio, Nester Mashingaidze, Alex Sananka, Stephen Aston, Jonathan J. Ojeda, Patricio Grassini
Tags
maize demand
Sub-Saharan Africa
smallholder farms
yield improvement
agricultural practices
cultivar selection
nutrient management

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