Genomics breakthrough offers new hope for faster improvement of Africa’s staple RTB crops

21 May 2026

Roots, Tubers, and Bananas (RTB) crops, which include cassava, yam, banana, plantain, sweet potato, and potato, remain at the heart of food and nutritional security for millions of people across the tropics. In sub-Saharan Africa, especially these crops contribute significantly to daily calorie intake and serve as a major source of livelihood for over two billion people globally. Yet, despite their importance, efforts to improve these crops have historically lagged behind those for cereals and legumes due to their genetic complexity and reliance on vegetative propagation.

A new research review by IITA scientists led by Molecular Breeder Scientist Paterne Agre, sheds light on how recent advances in genomics-assisted breeding (GAB) are transforming this narrative. Focusing on banana and plantain, cassava, and yam breeding programs, the study provides a comprehensive blend of how modern genomic tools can accelerate the development of improved, resilient, and high-yielding RTB varieties.

RTB crops are uniquely suited to the environments in which they are grown. Cassava and yam, for instance, can withstand drought and poor soils, while bananas and plantains provide food year-round, acting as a safety net for farmers during dry seasons. However, these advantages are offset by major breeding challenges. Many RTB crops are genetically complex, making it difficult to predict inheritance patterns or stabilize desirable traits. In addition, poor flowering, low seed viability, and the vegetative nature of propagation limit opportunities for recombination and slow down breeding progress.

The research highlights how genomics is now helping to overcome these constraints. By integrating tools such as DNA sequencing, molecular markers, and genomic selection into breeding pipelines, scientists can better understand genetic diversity, identify valuable traits, and select superior progenies with high potential. Techniques like marker-assisted selection and genomic prediction are already shortening breeding cycles and improving efficiency. Emerging innovations such as pan-genomics and gene editing are further expanding possibilities, allowing scientists to target specific traits such as disease resistance, yield improvement, and climate resilience.

The study also reflects the broader efforts of the CGIAR RTB research initiative, launched to accelerate genetic innovation and address longstanding breeding challenges. Through collaboration among international research institutions, national programs, and development partners, significant progress has been made in building genomic resources and applying them across RTB crops.

At the core of the research is a detailed assessment of available genomic resources and their practical impact. The authors examined how these tools are being used throughout the breeding process, from early-stage, diversity studies and trait discovery to advanced selection and variety development. They also evaluated digital innovations that are helping modernize breeding programs, including data management systems and decision-support tools.

One of the most promising developments highlighted in the review is the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning into breeding systems. These technologies enable scientists to easily analyse large datasets, uncover complex trait relationships, and make more accurate predictions about plant performance under different environmental conditions. This is particularly important for developing climate-resilient varieties that can withstand unpredictable weather patterns.

Despite these advancements, the study emphasizes that sustained impact will require strategic investments and coordinated action. The researchers recommended strengthening interdisciplinary expertise in genomics and data science, expanding access to affordable genotyping technologies, and establishing regional innovation hubs equipped with advanced computing infrastructure. The authors also stressed the importance of participatory breeding approaches that incorporate farmers' preferences, particularly those of women and processors, to ensure that improved varieties meet real-world needs.

The study also calls for supportive policy frameworks to guide the adoption of emerging technologies such as gene editing, as well as the integration of impact-driven metrics to track progress in yield improvement, adoption rates, and resilience outcomes.

As demand for RTB crops continues to rise, especially in Africa, the findings emphasize the urgency of accelerating breeding efforts. By harnessing the power of genomics and aligning innovation with local realities, researchers and partners are paving the way for a new generation of RTB crops that can better feed populations, strengthen livelihoods, and build resilience in the face of climate change.

Contributed by Ochuwa Favour Daramola