EAGC is set to partner with International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) in the implementation of a wheat research program in Eastern Africa.

In the research program, the partnership will work with key stakeholders in the wheat value chain among them large millers and processors, flour producers, bakeries and distributors who closely engage with consumers. The partnership aims to expand on CIMMYT’s work on conducting consumers’ preferences on cereal products, more specifically cereal flour based on wheat, millet, sorghum and their blends. The partnership will also explore opportunities for better use of local cereals such as sorghum and millet through their flour blending.

Additionally, the partnership will seek industry insights through studies around consumer behavior and needs, industry quality and quantity needs, potential aggregation opportunities and industry niche markets and products among others.

In an initial engagement, the partners have in the month of May embarked on initial field visits to Capwell Industries Limited and Broadway Bakery Company to obtain firsthand information on wheat industry insights, challenges and any existing opportunities in the sector.

EAGC and CIMMYT, in the program, will collaborate in other interesting areas of research such as suitable geographical areas for wheat production, studies to understand wheat growing practices from Eastern Africa countries, urban and peri-urban demand, identifying wheat stakeholders, existing wheat policies and new wheat varietal development.