Marker-Assisted Breeding As a Next-Generation Strategy for Genetic Improvement of Sweetpotato in Sub Saharan Africa (SSA)

The development in genetic improvement of sweetpotato with conventional breeding programs in sub Saharan Africa could be accelerated with complete knowledge on and precise manipulation of genetic information. Particular emphasis is given to application of marker-assisted breeding since it is shown to be highly effective for reducing the time for variety development in other crops and promising for manipulating novel genes available in the sweetpotato germplasm.The Genomic Tools for Sweetpotato Improvement (GT4SP) project includes training on integration of genomics and molecular marker technology to strengthen institutional capacity for successful breeding to accelerate crop improvement. This will involve identification of gaps in laboratory expertise of partners and collaborators, hands-on training in marker-assisted breeding and short training courses for breeders in the application of molecular techniques.

Through surveys/questionnaires, training modules, webinars, courses and workshops, national breeders and researchers will gain knowledge of appropriate methods and markers for the identification and breeding of locally-adapted modern varieties. Training will contribute to improving breeding and strengthening of existing research networks between partner institutions and their other associated networks, for accelerating improvement of sweetpotato varieties. Other objectives of GT4SP such as marker-trait association identification and genomic selection are in progress and will be introduced to trainees to familiarize them with new tools for rapid uptake to address specific challenges of sweetpotato breeding in SSA such as resistance to diseases, drought tolerance and high yield.