Insect Resistant Maize for Africa (IRMA) Project: annual report 2003-2004

Abstract

The IRMA project is aimed at producing stem borer resistant, locally adapted maize varieties for various Kenyan agro-ecological zones using conventional and biotechnology-mediated approaches, particularly Bt technology. Transgenic maize containing Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) genes is a focal point of the project. Public involvement and awareness, through events such as the annual stakeholder meetings, are emphasized in the project's activities. The IRMA project is currently in its second phase (2004-2008), following the first phase in 1999-2003. In its maize improvement efforts using conventional breeding and genetic technologies, IRMA will strive to be a model of good practice, serve as a pilot project for public-private partnership and cooperation, employ state of the art technology and methodology, and be transparent and open through ongoing dialogue with stakeholders. An external review of the first phase of the project-IRMA I-was conducted in early 2003 to assess the project's progress, shortcomings, and lessons learned, and to set the stage for formulating a business plan that would be presented to development partners with an interest in participating in the project after 2003. The review team commented that "achievements of IRMA I have been remarkable, and excellent work has been done by a highly motivated team." It cited many examples of scientific work performed to very high standards. However, the review noted that the target product had not yet been delivered, which it attributed in large part to delays in the Kenyan biosafety regulatory process. The review team strongly endorsed a continuation of the project, as IRMA II, and stressed several points, among them increased KARl involvement in project management, and a greater share by KARl of the fundamental work, under the scientific leadership of CIMMYT. An IRMA II Project Plan was developed through a process that emphasized broad participation and transparency, especially when regulatory issues were being considered in 2003 and 2004. Ten themes were developed, which will be actualized by multidisciplinary and inter-institutional groups. This report is a record of activities of the project in 2003 and 2004. During 2003 the construction of a level-2 biosafety greenhouse complex (BGHC) was completed, and an approval for importation of Bt maize seeds granted by the KARl and National Biosafety Committees. Impact assessment and socio-economic studies including baseline surveys, effects of seed recycling, a consumer awareness survey, and a farmerparticipatory variety evaluation were carried out. Moderately stem borer resistant maize varieties were developed using the conventional varietal development methods. Clean event Bt maize source lines were developed and successful transformation made with cry2Aa and crylCa genes. Collection, characterization, and quantification of non-target organism for ecological studies in the mock trials were initiated. Surveys to delineate, quantify and determine the adequacy of refugia in maize growing areas were completed. These are needed for developing insect resistance management (IRM) strategies. Three videos were made of activities of the extension seminars, as well as "Smart Seeds: Insect Resistant Maize for Africa," which provides an overview of the project. A rigorous but positive external review of the project was carried out. Finally, IRMA was earmarked by the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) as one of its three priority pilot projects. In 2004, the IRMA project registered significant progress. Molecular characterization of genes and products was done to better target the pests and ensure compliance with the Kenyan regulatory system. Following the completion and inspection of the BGHC, the facility was officially opened by the President of Kenya, H.E. Hon. Mwai Kibaki. Bt maize seeds were introduced into Kenya in May 2004. Testing of the Bt maize plants grown in the BGHC for resistance to stem borers commenced, and a backcrossing program into adapted Kenya maize varieties was initiated. Maize OPVs with conventional stem borer resistance were entered for testing in the Kenya Maize National Performance Trials (NPTs) as the first step towards their official release. Other significant advances were made in the development of an insect resistance management strategy, and the first stakeholders' workshop on "Integration of pastures, fodders and cereal crops as refugia for stem borers" was held at KARI-Mtwapa. Baseline and consumer awareness studies were carried out in an effort to understand how insect resistant germplasm will fit into the Kenyan maize farming systems. Enhanced training efforts and programs that emphasized biosafety and regulatory aspects of Bt technology were upheld. Communication and documentation through the development of print and electronic materials, presentations at seminars, and engagement of stakeholders, continued. Finally, a comprehensive IRMA II project plan that includes a strengthened regulatory affairs component was developed. Detailed accounts of these activities are included in this report. Also included are brief summaries of presentations and discussions during the IRMA Project annual review and planning meetings of 2003 and 2004. The support of the Syngenta Foundation for Sustainable Agriculture and the Rockefeller Foundation is gratefully acknowledged.