Luanda: Municipal agriculture directors and producers in Huambo Province visited the Institute of Agronomic Research (IIA) this Saturday to observe the research and seed variety improvement processes aimed at increasing local production.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the activity was an initiative of the local Department of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries, highlighting research as a solution to prevent recurring crop losses in the field. At the IIA, located at the Chianga station on the outskirts of Huambo city, 17 municipal directors and producers received briefings on research into seed varieties for beans, sweet potatoes, maize, avocados, and citrus fruits, as well as on soil analysis and amendment.
The comprehensive tour, lasting more than two hours, included visits to several specialized sections. These encompassed the entomology section, which studies insects that affect crop production, maize genetics facilities, greenhouses, potato storage systems, soil and plant analysis and phytopathology laboratories, and field trial plots.
Helena da Concei§o Maliti, head of the Chianga Agricultural Experimental Station, praised the initiative and expressed hope for the wider distribution of locally produced seeds to all interested farmers. She noted that they have a large supply of improved and hybrid maize seeds suited to the needs of smallholder farmers and commercial producers, alongside beans and potatoes, which are currently being multiplied to increase stock levels. She stated that using these seeds allows farmers to achieve yields of several tons.
Maliti also advocated for stricter quality control on seeds entering the country, noting that many are ill-suited to the Angolan climate, which can result in failure to germinate or poor yields for farming families. It was stated that there are rules to be followed regarding the production of seeds and grains to ensure the quality of the product supplied to the market.
The IIA, historically headquartered in Huambo, is the main body of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forests (MINAGRIF) responsible for conducting agro-silvo-pastoral research in Angola, focusing on technology development, food security, and sustainability in the country.
