EUCORD’s Development of Agriculture through Sorghum Hybrids (DASH) project in Mali, recently organized a workshop to train producers on sorghum hybrid seed production techniques. A total of 15 seed producers and 5 field agents participated in the training which was held between 19-20 April 2011 at Yanfolila in the Sikasso Region. Advantages of using sorghum hybrids vis-à-vis improved open-pollinated sorghum varieties include: 1) better vegetative growth and seedling vigor; 2) better tolerance to foliar diseases; 3) higher grain yield; and 4) higher stover yield (animal feed). In Mali, the average gain in grain yield is in the order of 60% compared to open pollinated varieties. To see a selection of photo’s from the training click here.

On April 20th EUCORD presented a business case on its sorghum project in Sierra Leone during an expert meeting organized by Agri-ProFocus on the why and how of local sourcing. The focus of the event was on business models that support sustainable procurement methods that have a positive impact on food security and local economic development. A copy of the presentation and a summary of the discussion is available here.