The Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources (MINAGRI) has announced the discovery of Irish potato varieties that are resistant to late blight, a major disease affecting potato production.
The discovery is part of ongoing research targeting three major crops—potatoes, cassava and maize—with the aim of developing varieties that can withstand common diseases and pests.
Research Targets Major Crop Diseases
Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources, Dr. Telesphore Ndabamenye, said the research focuses on cassava brown streak disease, fall armyworm in maize and late blight in potatoes.
Researchers have identified potato varieties that can resist late blight, meaning farmers would no longer need to apply pesticides to control the disease. The varieties are currently being tested in farmers’ fields.
Cassava Varieties Also Show Disease Tolerance
The research has also identified cassava varieties that are tolerant to cassava brown streak disease.
Dr. Ndabamenye explained that the newly identified varieties differ from genetically modified organisms (GMOs). While GMOs involve modifying the genetic makeup of an organism, the research involves strengthening existing characteristics by introducing specific traits.
Maize Research Nears Advanced Stage
Research on maize is also progressing, with scientists working to identify varieties resistant to fall armyworm. However, the varieties discovered so far have not yet reached the stage where they can be distributed to farmers.
The varieties must first undergo further testing to confirm that they can deliver the required yields and meet other safety and performance standards.
Rwanda Strengthens Agricultural Biotechnology Research
MINAGRI is conducting the research in collaboration with international institutions with advanced expertise in biotechnology. The collaboration is intended to ensure that newly developed varieties meet international standards and do not pose risks to human health or the environment.
In February 2024, Rwanda published a law governing genetically modified crops in the Official Gazette, establishing a legal framework for their safe use.
Meanwhile, the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB) announced in May 2026 that Rwanda plans to establish a state-of-the-art research facility by 2027. The facility will focus on crops including bananas, potatoes and cassava, with the goal of developing improved varieties that can withstand diseases.
Although Rwandan institutions have been conducting this research, some of the work has so far been carried out abroad. The planned facility is expected to strengthen Rwanda’s capacity to conduct advanced agricultural research within the country.
