Genetic Finger Printing

KALRO in partnership with STAK and the University of Nairobi is implementing a genetic finger printing project. The project objectives are to generate estimates of adoption of improved maize varieties in Bungoma and Embu counties of Kenya using DNA fingerprinting; To establish the degree to which farmers can accurately identify the improved maize varieties; To establish the levels of genetic purity of certified maize seed from selected breeders, selected seed companies, distributors, retail outlets and farmers and to develop capacity of selected Kenyan based organizations in the use of genetic fingerprinting for varietal and adoption studies.

Studies have been carried out in both counties which constituted laboratory tests, administration of questionnaires and field days. The findings of the project will be done through a publication.