The recent African Planr Breeders Association (APBA) conference held in Morocco showcased the remarkable achievements of scholars in the field of crop improvement. Among the distinguished awardees were Professor Pangirayi Tongoona, Associate Director for Breeding Programmes, and Ms. Georgina Ehemba, a PhD student at the West Africa Centre for Crop Improvement (WACCI).
Prof.Tongoona was honoured with the Outstanding Achievement Award for his dedication to advancing plant breeding and genetic education over the course of more than three decades, making a significant contribution to food security and sustainability on the continent. His life’s work has been dedicated to advancing plant breeding and genetics education throughout Africa.
The Associate Director for Breeding Programme at WACCI, Prof. Tongoona
Meanwhile, Ms. Ehemba was awarded the best poster presentation at the conference. The segment of the event provided participants with an opportunity to showcase their innovations and achievements in plant breeding and cognate areas. Ms. Ehemba’s presentation was centred on "the genetic diversity and population structure of 250 doubled haploid lines derived from five populations for drought and low nitrogen tolerance”.
Ms. Georgina Ehemba
The APBA conference convenes international scientists and experts from various national and international institutions, offering a platform for plant breeders, researchers, students, private companies and national agricultural policymakers to exchange knowledge and discuss their research findings and recent advancements.