Solynta introduces hybrid potato varieties with late blight resistance in Burundi
According to Solynta, true innovation requires strong partnerships, clear progress, and a continued focus on impact.
BURUNDI – Solynta has partnered with the Burundian government and research institute ISABU to introduce hybrid potato varieties carrying stacked late blight resistance genes, aiming to reduce crop losses and improve food security.
During a recent visit, Solynta representatives Charles Miller and Antonino Crucitti met with SE Evariste Ndayishimiye, President of the Republic of Burundi, to align on progress and next steps for strengthening the potato sector.
The collaboration is grounded in a long-term partnership focused on food security and sustainable agricultural development.
The team also deepened its cooperation with ISABU, Burundi’s agricultural research institute, advancing research, local validation, and knowledge transfer to ensure lasting impact.
Additionally, the work is supported by the Government of the Netherlands through the PSSD II project, in collaboration with IFDC, whose commitment is helping to create conditions for innovation to scale.
In the field, the partnership celebrated the harvest of clean, disease-free G1 tubers from new potato varieties with high late blight resistance, in collaboration with ADPR.
The milestone demonstrates the effectiveness of the seed system under development and the potential for farmers to access improved genetics and high-quality starting material.
Late blight, caused by Phytophthora infestans, is a devastating disease that can destroy entire potato crops if not controlled through frequent fungicide applications.
Therefore, hybrid potato varieties with stacked resistance genes offer a more sustainable solution, reducing chemical inputs while stabilizing yields.
For Burundian smallholder farmers, who rely on potatoes as both a staple food and a source of income, this innovation could transform productivity and profitability.
On the other hand, engagements with broader value chain partners focus on accelerating adoption and ensuring that farmers can fully benefit from improved genetics.
According to Solynta, true innovation requires strong partnerships, clear progress, and a continued focus on impact.
For stakeholders in the fresh produce sector across Africa, Burundi’s hybrid potato initiative demonstrates how public-private partnerships can deliver disease-resistant planting material to smallholders.
As Burundi builds momentum around hybrid potato innovation, the sector is positioning itself for higher yields, reduced input costs, and more reliable supply to domestic and regional markets.
Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.
