ICRISAT Releases First-Ever Biofortified Pearl Millet for Zimbabwe and the ESA Region
The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) has achieved a breakthrough that is poised to transform nutrition and agriculture across Zimbabwe and the Eastern and Southern African region.
Two new pearl millet varieties, Iniadi Composite 1501 and ICMP 177003, have been released as the region’s first biofortified millet with naturally high iron and zinc.
Their arrival marks a major step forward in tackling malnutrition, improving food security, and strengthening climate resilience for millions of smallholder farmers.
These new varieties have been developed through years of scientific breeding and evaluation.
They combine high micronutrient density with strong yields, drought resilience, and adaptability to semi-arid environments.
Their release was made possible under the Grow Further–funded initiative titled Improving Food, Nutritional and Income Security of Smallholder Farmers in Zimbabwe’s Arid and Semi-Arid Lands through High-Yielding Iron-Dense Pearl Millet Varieties.
Dr Himanshu Pathak, Director General of ICRISAT, underscored the achievement as a critical step toward tackling widespread micronutrient deficiencies.
“Biofortification is one of the most effective ways science can improve everyday nutrition.
"These new iron- and zinc-rich pearl millet varieties offer a sustainable solution to hidden hunger, helping reduce anaemia, strengthen immunity, and improve the health of women and children.
"By making nutrient-dense crops accessible to the communities that need them most, we are closing a major gap in food and nutrition security.
"This is a victory for science, for farmers, and for future generations,” said Dr Pathak.
Micronutrient deficiencies persist in many rural communities, disproportionately affecting children, women, and low-income households.
Iron and zinc are essential for cognitive development, immune strength, and maternal health.
The new biofortified varieties provide a natural and sustainable approach to enhancing nutrient intake through daily diets, thereby improving health outcomes without the need for supplements or changes in eating habits.
The benefits extend well beyond nutrition. These varieties originate from the hardy Iniadi genetic background, renowned for its drought tolerance, high grain quality, and stability in harsh environments.
This makes them particularly well-suited for Zimbabwe’s drylands, where climate change has intensified water stress and reduced agricultural productivity.
Dr. Rebbie Harawa, ICRISAT Global Research Program Director and Director for Africa, emphasized the broader regional implications.
“This milestone demonstrates the power of collaboration and the value of research that is directly aligned with farmer needs.
"These varieties will help strengthen food systems, improve household incomes, and give families healthier food choices. They represent a significant step toward climate-resilient agriculture across Africa’s drylands" said Dr Harawa.
As high-yielding crops, the varieties also hold economic potential.
They create opportunities for income generation, particularly for women and youth who play a significant role in production and value addition.
Supported by the Grow Further project, the initiative is also investing in seed systems, farmer training, and market development to ensure wide adoption and lasting impact.
The project focuses on four major areas that help translate scientific breakthroughs into real-world benefits:
• Strengthening seed systems to ensure a reliable supply of certified seed across Zimbabwe’s drylands
• Nutrition education to help households understand and use biofortified crops to improve diets
• Training in climate-smart agriculture to boost productivity and build resilience to climate stress
• Supporting market development for nutrient-dense grains and value-added products
Dr Henry Ojulong, ICRISAT’s pearl millet breeder, underscored the significance of the breakthrough with a message of hope.
“These varieties represent hope for mothers seeking nutritious food for their children, hope for farmers working through climate challenges, and hope for communities striving for better livelihoods.
"With biofortified pearl millet, we are helping transform agriculture and nutrition across Zimbabwe’s drylands" said Dr Ojulong.
The release of Iniadi Composite 1501 and ICMP 177003 marks a significant advancement in Zimbabwe’s agricultural transformation agenda.
As the first biofortified pearl millet varieties in the Eastern and Southern Africa region, they pave the way for wider regional adoption, improved nutrition outcomes, and farming systems strengthened by science and innovation.
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