Sourghum

The strategy adopted in advancing sorghum for uptake is focusing on target use. Previous engagements reveal that sorghum can be accepted if it can solve an existing need. This explains why engaging partners in developing a product enhances the acceptance rate. The following are some of the products obtained so far.

EUSH 1 sorghum hybrid

Over 150 sorghum lines were evaluated for malting and brewing properties. About 20 promising lines were identified and in collaboration with EABL, only two proved to be good. One of the two was excellent for brewing according to EABL and was submitted for release. It was released under the name EUSH 1. It is medium in height, high yielding and the grain is shinny cream. Has good brewing properties.

EUS 130 - The bread sorghum

Red sorghum with good baking qualities. It makes good bread when blended with wheat flour at some ratio. It has gained acceptability in the market.

EUSS 10 and EUSS 11

Sorghum evaluated for and in conjunction with an agro-chemical industry for ethanol production. EUSS 10 is for the highlands while EUSS 11 is for mid-lowlands. Their sugar-rich stalk juice produce considerable amount of ethanol when fermented and distilled.

Lentils

Lentil (Lens culinaris) is a drought-tolerant nutritious legume. The legume comes in different colours which include green, brown, red, yellow, and black, each with a slightly unique flavor and texture. Lentile is rich in protein, dietary fiber, vitamin B, iron, potassium, and magnesium. It is a good source of protein and therefore a valuable food for vegetarians. It is easy to cook and can be used in a wide range of dishes. They can be boiled, simmered, or pressure-cooked. It is low in greenhouse gas emissions during cultivation..

GrassPea

Grass pea (Lathyrus sativus) is among the few crops that can tolerate harsh conditions and provide a source of sustenance in difficult agricultural environments. Grass pea has been cultivated for centuries, primarily in regions experiencing drought or poor soil quality, where other crops might not thrive. The seeds of the grass pea plant are rich in protein however, it contains a neurotoxin called beta-N-oxalyl-L-alpha, beta-diaminopropionic acid (ODAP). The neurotoxin can cause a condition called lathyrism if consumed in large quantities over an extended period. Lathyrism is characterized by paralysis of the lower limbs and other neurological symptoms. There are improved grass pea lines from ICARDA with low level of ODAP. Its biomass is a good source of crude protein in ruminants.