Overview
In a transformative milestone for sustainable agriculture in Southern Africa, the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), in collaboration with Malawi’s Department of Agricultural Research Services (DARS) and with funding from the EU-backed DeSIRA initiative, has launched a new climate-resilient groundnut variety named ICGV-SMs 05650, or CG18.
Variety Features and Benefits
CG18 is a Spanish groundnut variety specifically bred to thrive under the challenging conditions faced by smallholder farmers in Malawi and the surrounding region. It offers:
- High yield potential
- Drought and heat stress tolerance
- Resistance to groundnut rosette disease
- Market readiness and export competitiveness
These traits make CG18 a viable and profitable option for smallholders seeking resilient and commercially valuable crop solutions amid climate uncertainty.
Strategic Impact and Market Access
According to Dr Himanshu Pathak, Director General of ICRISAT, CG18 embodies the organization’s commitment to delivering science-led, practical innovations that respond to farmer needs and market realities. The variety has already gained international traction, with the South Africa Groundnut Association (SAGA) including it in their export portfolio.
Regional Adaptation
CG18 is also under consideration for release in Central Tanzania’s semi-arid zones, where annual rainfall is less than 600 mm—conditions under which traditional varieties often fail.
Export Potential
CG18’s acceptance by SAGA enhances Malawi’s access to premium international markets, offering higher price returns for quality produce and new economic opportunities for smallholders.
Breeding and Development
Led by Dr James Mwololo (ICRISAT) and Dr Justus Chintu (DARS), the variety’s release followed stringent performance evaluations and was approved by Malawi’s Agricultural Technology Clearing Committee (ATCC). CG18’s selection aligns with Malawi’s national priorities for climate-smart agriculture.
ICRISAT’s Legacy in Malawi
Since 1982, ICRISAT has worked alongside DARS to release over 15 improved groundnut varieties, tailored to various agro-ecological zones and market needs. Notable past releases include:
- CG 7 (1990): High-yielding Virginia-type with drought tolerance
- Nsinjiro & Kakoma (2000): Disease resistance and early maturity
- Baka (2001): Short-duration and drought-tolerant
- Chitala (2005): High yield and disease resistance
- CG8–CG14 (2014): Diverse traits across agro-ecological zones
- CG15 & CG16 (2020): Spanish-type, drought-tolerant varieties
- CG18 (2025): Climate-resilient, export-ready variety
These releases contribute to improved food security, enhanced resilience, and increased farmer income.
Conclusion
The release of CG18 marks a new chapter in Malawi’s agricultural advancement—merging climate adaptation, scientific excellence, and market orientation. As smallholders adopt this variety, Malawi strengthens its leadership in groundnut breeding and sets a replicable example for climate-resilient agriculture across Africa.
