Climate Change Adaptation Options: Importance of Drought Tolerant Maize Seeds

Maize production remains an important option for achieving food security and income generation among smallholder farmers in sub-Saharan Africa. However, the incidence of climate change in recent years has resulted in the need for better adaptable maize varieties in semi-arid regions. This research evaluated the performance (yields and profits) of drought tolerant (DT) hybrid and open pollinated varieties (OPV), using on farm trials under different localities. The findings of the study indicated that DT maize hybrid yields (9234.77 to 11755.18 kg/ha) were higher than the yields of OPV (5029.69kg/ha to 7165.98kg/ha). Much of the variance in maize yield was attributed to climatic variables such as the amount of rainfall and the number of rainy days in the season. Furthermore, maize hybrid production was more profitable than the OPV-based production system. The results suggest the importance of promoting maize hybrid seeds among farmers through on-farm trials and field days. It is also crucial to re-examine existing maize seed and agricultural extension policies to ensure improved agricultural productivity.