ICARDA Scientists Cultivate Drought-Resistant Wheat in Morocco Amid Severe 6-Year Drought

Scientists from the International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) are working to develop drought-resistant wheat varieties in Morocco, as the country faces a severe drought now in its sixth year. Led by Wuletaw Tadesse Degu, the researchers have cultivated 30 "elite lines" of grain that can withstand the arid conditions and have achieved yields of 4 tonnes per hectare with just 200 mm of rainfall through controlled irrigation and strategic sowing techniques. "We have beautiful ears of wheat that can withstand the relentless drought," Degu said, showcasing the resilient crops.

Morocco is projected to face "extremely high" water stress by 2040, with sharp declines expected in cultivated areas and cereal yields. The country's agricultural productivity is under serious threat from worsening water scarcity and climate change impacts. ICARDA's efforts aim to help Morocco adapt by developing wheat that can thrive despite the challenging conditions. Last year, their field in Marchouch achieved the 4 tonne per hectare yield, and barley yields have also increased from 1.5 to 2 tons per hectare thanks to the resilient varieties.

Why this matters: The widespread adoption of drought-resistant crops is vital for Morocco to offset the mounting agricultural losses due to the prolonged drought. The country's food security and economic stability are at risk as water shortages worsen and threaten its ability to produce sufficient yields.

However, bureaucratic obstacles in the approval process for new varieties are delaying their dissemination to farmers. The researchers emphasize the need for a faster certification system and greater engagement from private companies and farmers to adopt these climate-resilient crops. "Private companies and farmers prefer foreign seeds that may not be adapted to the local climate," Degu noted. The scientists see the widespread adoption of resilient crop varieties, along with the national agricultural program, as vital to mitigating the drought's devastating impact on Morocco's agriculture.

Key Takeaways

• ICARDA scientists develop drought-resistant wheat varieties in Morocco, yielding 4 tons/hectare.
• Morocco faces "extremely high" water stress by 2040, threatening agricultural productivity and food security.
• Drought-resistant crops are vital to offset Morocco's mounting agricultural losses due to prolonged drought.
• Bureaucratic obstacles delay dissemination of resilient crops to farmers, who prefer foreign seeds.
• Widespread adoption of resilient crops and national agricultural program are key to mitigating drought impact.