1  PABRA Annual Report to CIDA April 2010 – March 2011 2  Outcome #1: Increased access and utilization of improved bean varieties resistant to multiple environmental stresses Output 1.1 New or revised tools for targeting technologies for specific environmental stresses including those associated with climate change and socio-economic variables (poverty, gender, markets) widely available to development and farmer organizations P.I. #1.1: At least two constraints to bean production are mapped and documented by 2010 and at least two technologies targeted for these constraints are developed by 2012 Activity Set #1.1.1 Review and analyze current and future risks to bean production and utilization associated with major environmental stresses (prevalent drought and floods, heat, acid soils, salinity, low soil fertility, risk of soil degradation, pest and diseases) and end user systems 1.1.1.1. Review and update bean production environments in all countries by May 2010 - outcome leaders to work with NARS to ensure uniform information is collected across countries and regions: what and how to collect, how to report Documentation that was received by ECABREN and SABRN countries for updating the Bean Atlas was used by NARS partners and other relevant information providers (e.g. National Bureau of Statistics, Ministry of Agriculture, etc) to collect the information necessary for the update of the Atlas. Uniform information was collected across countries. A new environment of bean production was identified in northern DRC (Bambesa-Kisangani) in addition to the already known bean production zones of the country 1.1.1.2. Conduct national workshops to review and update bean production environments in all countries (In ECABREN complementary support by DIVA project - BMGF) New Activity In the SABRN region, national workshops were conducted in Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Southern Tanzania and Malawi where stakeholders reviewed and updated the bean production environments, part of the information which is required to update the Africa Bean Atlas. In ECABREN workshops were held in Uganda, DR Congo, Northern Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, Ethiopia and Kenya. As a result of these meetings new bean production area boundaries have been defined for the countries where meetings were held. 1.1.1.3. Collect secondary information (country reports) for PABRA Bean Atlas, by September 2010. Additional funds for ECABREN and SABRN. Scaling up Secondary information on eco-climatic zones, national socio-economic characteristics, annual trend in bean production volume and area, bean cropping systems, seed delivery and marketing systems was collected in Burundi, Rwanda (http://amis.minagri.gov.rw), Uganda, and Tanzania. For instance, in Burundi, area under bean is 405,715ha with 41,835 ha in the high altitude zone, 272,784ha in the plateau, 60,652ha in the mid or intermediate zone and 30,444ha in the low altitude zone. This shows that beans are most widely grown in the plateau zone compared to the three other agro-ecological zones. This information will be fed into the bean atlas under revision. Diverse partners (farmers, FOs, CBOs, traders, consumers) were identified to assist in providing updates for the Atlas. The Dry Bean Producers Organization in South Africa has been contacted to provide information for the Atlas. Similar activities are ongoing in other PABRA countries. In WECABREN, all the countries are involved. The information needed may be found in the respective country or other information provider and available upon request. 1.1.1.4. Develop a soil fertility database (linking with TSBF Soil Mapping project). Soil fertility (low N, low P and low pH) map should be ready by end of 2010 through TSBF project. (PABRA to leverage ongoing TSBF efforts) link with 1.1.1.1Support for SABRN countries Scaling up The Africa Soils Information Systems (AfSIS) project has started putting together a database on soil fertility and degradation with an initial focus on the SABRN countries of Malawi and Mozambique, but the plan is to cover 8 SABRN countries. This information will be digitized and maps linked to Google Earth (access maps) will be created. 1.1.1.5 Editing, reviewing and publishing the PABRA Climate Change Strategy New Activity A workshop to reflect on the issues of climate change on PABRA activities was organized in March 2010 in Arusha, Tanzania, and strategies were developed. The PABRA climate change strategy has been reviewed for technical soundness of the content and is currently undergoing final professional editing 1.1.1.6. Build capacity for database development and management that will be used to develop the maps. Following meetings with the developer of the previous Bean Atlas, a spreadsheet has been developed to allow bean information to be entered and managed. A manual is being developed to allow country coordinators to use the spreadsheet. 1.1.1.7 Collect coordinates of locations of on-station trial sites (March 2011); Equipment ($200 per country); (linked to 1.1.1.2 workshops) New Activity GPS machines were acquired for all countries to enable the geo-referencing of the station trial sites. In addition a web portal has been developed in CIAT-HQ for uploading trial metadata, including station information (this is a project separate from PABRA but has been informed by PABRA and will be of direct benefit to PABRA). A stand-alone database has also been developed to allow those with poor connectivity to register station and trial information. Past PABRA trials are being entered into the database and the interface will allow for easy access to past experimental data 1.1.1.8. Backup support in developing the Bean Atlas (GIS Specialist 25% Despite the development of simple protocols for updating bean production environments it has been necessary to hire a part-time GIS 3  time and operations). Research support: (assistant) /consultancy for the Bean Atlas New Activity assistant to facilitate the update of bean production environments. This process and the digitization of the new bean production environments has been overseen by the GIS specialist. The GIS specialist has developed the spreadsheet for obtaining secondary information, and has published the root rot risk map for East Africa. The GIS specialist is facilitating the digitization of bean trial metadata and performance data across PABRA countries for genotype by environment (GxE) and climate change analysis, and is responsible for the publication of the PABRA climate change strategy document. Output #1.2: Mechanisms for resistance to environmental stresses are understood and used to generate improved varieties resistant to specific environmental stresses P.I. #1.2: At least 100 new varieties including biofortified and market varieties resistant to 2 or more stress factors are evaluated for farmer acceptability, performance under major stresses and recommended for release in ECABREN (50%), SABRN (40%) and WECABREN (10%) Activity Set #1.2.1: Study, validate and document the genetic, physiological, pathogenic and pest mechanisms conferring resistance to different environmental stresses (linking with capacity building) and generate new stress resistant bean germplasm 1.2.1.1. Continue reviewing the status and characterize old/new pests and diseases in all countries - including angular leaf spot, anthracnose, root rot , web blight, rust, halo blight, bean stem maggot, bruchids, aphids and white flies: 1) Conduct a survey and diseases/pests scouting, 2) Collect, characterize, conserve and document isolates and strains. Scaling up to support ongoing surveys, and increase sample sizes for a more robust analysis of pest/pathogen populations using conventional and molecular techniques (baseline information for climate change) A review of the status of new and old pests and the collection of samples of diseased materials started in several ECABREN countries. Preliminary results indicate that bean stem maggot and attack by aphids have become more severe, not only in farmers’ fields, but also in experimental fields. For example high incidence of bean stem maggot was reported in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Malawi. A survey conducted in Kenya showed that there were three species of bean stem maggot (Ophiomya sp.), O. spencerella, O. centrosematis and O. phaseoli. The African bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera) was reported as an important constraint by farmers in Kenya. Rust continues to be a big threat to snap bean production. Farmers rely heavily on fungicides to control the pathogen which reduces profit margins. In Ethiopia, a preliminary survey conducted in the central rift valley areas recorded a wider prevalence of rust and common bacterial blight of bean. Disease such as Halo blight and Ascochyta blight also occurred sporadically. Anthracnose, Angular leaf spot and Ascochyta occurred sporadically at Shalla district. There was no bean fields free of bean foliar diseases, nevertheless severity of the diseased appeared low for Nasser bean variety in all cases. Surveys conducted in DR Congo showed that rust, ascochyta, angular leaf spot, common bacterial blight were the major bean diseases in South Kivu. In North Kivu, the principal diseases were angular leaf spot and common bacterial blight. Angular leaf spot disease was observed for the first time at M’Vuazi Research Centre in West DR Congo where CBB, Rust, WB, RR and BCMV are the major diseases. In Burundi, root rot is the major disease constraint at low altitude (700 to 1000 masl), while angular leaf spot and anthracnose are the main constraints at medium (1400 to 1600 masl) and high altitude (>2000 masl), respectively. In Sudan, cowpea mild mottle virus and macrophomina root rot were identified as major constraints to bean production. In Uganda, preliminary mapping of geo-referenced data started. In a survey conducted in some parts of Uganda rust, CBB, ALS and anthracnose were major disease constraints while chafer grubs and bean flower beetles are becoming a major threat. Results of field surveys conducted in various districts within the country confirmed earlier findings that different diseases are important in different localities. For instance, in Uganda, CBB and rust were more severe in Arua and Oyam, ALS in Sironko and Mbale, and bean anthracnose disease remains a big problem in Kabale. Isolates of Colletotrichum lindemuthianum, Pythium spp. and Fusarium solani are currently stored at NaCRRI. Over 50 isolates each have been obtained for major pathogens and pathogenecity tests for anthracnose and root rot diseases are on-going at NaCRRI. Molecular characterization of the pathogens has been initiated, with DNA already extracted for most of the samples. Isolation for angular leaf spot, anthracnose and root rot pathogens was conducted at the Plant Pathology laboratory at Kabete. Inoculum of the isolates was increased and used for preliminary disease phenotyping of differentials and several sources of resistance used in population development. The isolates will be phenotyped to determine their race and representative isolates/races will be conserved at Kabete. 4  In SABRN, the emphasis was on angular leaf spot and common bacterial blight, but each country had specific priorities. South Africa: Three rust samples were received from Malawi and one from Swaziland. Ten isolates were obtained from the infected samples and, thus far, 3 different races (11-0, 63-11 and 63-3), all from Malawi, have been identified. Race 63-11 gave the same differential reaction on the 2002 differential set as races RSA-Ua2 (collected from three localities in South Africa) and RSA-Ua5 (collected from South Africa and Zimbabwe), previously identified as two different races on the 1983 set of differentials. Race 63-3 has been previously identified in Brazil. No previous report of race 11-0 could be found. Rust resistance genes overcome include Ur-3, -4,-6,-7,-9,-13 and the resistance in PI 260418. Rust resistance genes Ur-5 and Ur-11+, as well as the resistance in CNC, were not overcome by any of these races. Common bacterial blight, angular leaf spot, rust, halo blight anthracnose and bean common mosaic virus (BCMV) Were the prevalent diseases in Zambia during the season. In Mauritius, the bacterial blight complex (common blight, fuscous blight, and halo blight) were the major constraints to bean production, especially for seed production. The diseases can be mitigated by producing seeds in the sub-humid zone under drip irrigation. Bacterial blights are generally controlled by preventive weekly applications of copper-based pesticides. The other important disease of bean is rust. It develops under cool and wet conditions (winter), causing severe defoliation in susceptible varieties. It can be controlled by application of the fungicide difenoconazole at onset of infection. Other diseases include brown spot (Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae), anthracnose and some virus diseases (predominantly BCMV). The following pests were recorded on beans in Mauritius, and if left uncontrolled could cause serious damage leading to significant losses: leaf miners: Liriomyza spp., Melanagromyza phaseoli, Acrocercops caerulea; leaf-eating caterpillars: Lamprosema indicata, Spodoptera littoralis; pod borers: Maruca vitrata, Lampides boeticus, Etiella zinckenella; aphids: Aphis craccivora; thrips: Thrips palmi, Megalurothrips sjoestedti; storage pests: Acanthoscelides obtectus, Callosobruchus spp., Sitophlus spp. Due to the growing season, the implementation of the activity is underway in all WECABREN countries. 1.2.1.2. Develop bean variety suitability maps based on growing conditions, pest and disease distribution and severity, etc New activity A household survey has been carried out in Rwanda to assess varietal adoption. GPS machines have been provided by PABRA on a temporary basis to ISAR to capture the location of each household and some plots. Enumerators have been trained by the GIS assistant and a GPS guide developed. This information has yet to be analysed but will be used with niche based models to assess the suitability of different bean varieties within Rwanda and extrapolated to other countries. 1.2.1.3. Conduct participatory field trials to establish changes in crop losses due to the major or emerging pests and diseases of common bean A participatory field survey conducted in eastern Kenya showed that losses due to bean stem maggot in farmers fields varied from 12 to 67%, with higher losses being associated with drier areas and poor soils. A total of 220 farmers (122 women and 98 men) participated in the focused group discussions. Losses due to bean stem maggot varied from 12 to 67% in the dry medium altitude agro-ecological zone, and 10 to 50% in the dry transitional zone. Losses are generally more severe for late planted crops. . A study to understand farmers’ perception and knowledge of BSM in Kenya showed that farmers’ have scanty knowledge of the pest and limited ability in pest identification compared to extension staff who are well informed about the pest identification and status on the crop. Most farmers were unaware that BSM attacks the crop at the seedling stage and can act alone to cause significant yield losses. Therefore, growers should be made aware that young bean plants attacked by BSM are unable to recover and that plant populations in farmers’ fields tend to drop significantly especially if BSM attack coincides with moisture stress. On the other hand yield losses by leaf feeders can be variable, but heavy losses are often characterized by late planting when infestations are high. In this case the plants set few or no pods, resulting in heavy grain yield losses of 70-100%. 1.2.1.4. Identify sources of resistance to new races of pests and diseases that may have emerged (partly due to climate change): specific focus on ALS, halo blight, rust, bean stem maggot, bruchids, aphids and whiteflies - UG; KT/AGRA/MSI Several ECABREN countries started screening available germplasm for resistance to new and existing races of pathogens. In Uganda, Kenya and Ethiopia, differentials for anthracnose, angular leaf spot and rust were increased for use in pathotype analysis. Seed of 21 Uganda landraces was increased and will be screened to identify sources of resistance genes that could be used in gene pyramiding. In Kenya, parental sources of resistance and commercial varieties were tested for resistance to angular leaf spot, anthracnose, common bacterial blight, strains of bean common mosaic and necrotic viruses and root rot. In Uganda and Kenya several sources of resistance 5  were identified: G2333 for anthracnose resistance; Mexico 54 for angular leaf spot; MCM 2001 for BCMNV; VAX 3 and VAX 4 for common bacterial blight; MLB 49-89A and RWR 719 for root rots; and UBR(92)25ML for bean common mosaic virus. In Madagascar, several lines of diverse market classes with resistance to rust, angular leaf spot and acid soils were identified from regional multiple constraint nurseries in tests conducted at Cala. Lines with resistance to rust included ECAB 0914, ECAB 0920 (large white), Ikinimba (black), EMP 250-5-1 (red), UBR (19)45-1 (red), AND 934 B-1 (red mottled), TZ 201-439-3 (red) and VTTT 926/2-4 (red). ECAB 0914, UBR (19)45-1 and TZ 201-439-3 also showed resistance to angular leaf spot. Ikinimba was tolerant to acid soils. In Kenya, 64 lines of diverse origin were evaluated for resistance to bean stem maggot under irrigated and non-irrigated conditions at Kiboko. Seven genotypes showed combined resistance to drought and bean stem maggot. These were GBK 047810, GBK 047866, G21212, GBK 047821, GBK 036488, CIM 9314-36 and Ikinimba. Such genotypes could be useful to farmers since they would give comparative yield advantage under bean stem maggot attack as well as drought, which are common to semi-arid environments. In Burundi, evaluation of 43 released and pre- released bean varieties and advanced lines for tolerance to bruchids showed that all varieties were susceptible to bruchids. Use of chemical products (actellic super or Kaolin and ash) during storage is recommended for all varieties. Screening of the 43 lines for BSM resistance in 2010 B season was inconclusive due to low pest pressure but has been repeated in 2011 A season. In Sudan, screening for charcoal rot resistance led to the identification of 6 out of 21 common bean genotypes that showed resistance to the disease. In SABRN, differentials and other important germplasm were screened in the field for ALS resistance. The resistance of the small seeded differentials Mexico 54, BAT 332 and Cornell 49242 to P. griseola, as well as that of the large seeded differential G 5686 and CIAT line CAL 143, continue to hold up in the field in South Africa in spite of the fact that races that overcome their resistances have been collected in Southern Africa. Middle-American type isolates of P. griseola continue to be found in the wetter eastern parts of South Africa, and their prevalence appears to be increasing slowly. A number of lines were identified in Zimbabwe, which combine biotic and abiotic stress tolerance and were used in the crossing block for breeding bean varieties. On station activities which were conducted during 2009/10 season include generation of genetic diversity by crossing, advancement of segregating populations, preliminary variety trial, intermediate variety trial, advanced variety trial and seed multiplication. In Malawi, nurseries of bean lines and varieties were evaluated to identify new bean germplasm resistant to biotic stresses (angular leaf spot, bean stem maggot) and abiotic stress (drought). For drought there were several activities linked to Tropical Legumes I project, where various nurseries of bean germplasm were evaluated to identify parental lines with drought resistance for subsequent use in the breeding program. In addition, over 700 bean lines and varieties were assembled for quick screening under normal moisture and drought stress conditions to identify potential genotypes for further participatory evaluation with stakeholders and eventual release. A total of 36 genotypes were identified to be drought resistant, and high yielding (above 1000 kg ha-1) under drought stress. In Zambia, BILFA lines were evaluated with and without agricultural lime (rate 500kg/ha) to identify good parental bean lines under both conditions. A different set of lines were evaluated to identify good parental lines for bean stem maggot resistance, although pest pressure was found to be low at Misamfu during the season. The top yielders were CIM-SUG-03-09-10, CIM-SUG-03-09-05, CIM-SUG-03-09-06, CIM-SUG- 03-42-15, CIM-SUG-03-42-17 and CIM-SUG-03-09-08. Another set of lines was evaluated under angular leaf spot (ALS) disease pressure to identify parental lines for resistance to ALS. The lines varied in the yield range: 625 to 3113 kg ha-1, with a trial mean yield of 1542kg ha-1. The top yielding lines in this nursery were BM 12732-60VEF2000-122, BM 12732-60VEF2000-121, G 148, CNF 5558, BM 12732-60VEF2000-127 and BRU 13. In WECABREN, this activity was conducted in Cameroon and Burkina Faso. In Cameroon, there are two sites of diseases emergence: Ekona for web blight and Foumbot for ALS. In Ekona, the bean varieties resistant to web blight are Roba 1, K26/35 cfm and RWR-10 for bush; BF5, BF10, ECAB 0421, 19 (ndundu) KNX 87 and KNX89 for semi-climber; MAC 13, MAC 27, MAC 33, MAC 34, MAC54, MAC 55, Mex 142, RJ4-3, SEPE for climber. The following varieties were resistant to all the diseases: BF5, ECAB 0421, 19NDUNDU, KNX87 and KNX89, In Foumbot, the bean varieties resistant to ALS are FEB 192, AFR708, K192, ECAPAN 021, Cim 933-1 for bush ; 6  Ty3396-12 and GLP2 for S/climber; and MAC18, MAC55, MAC 16, MAC 33, MAC 64, MAC 54, MAC27 and MAC 34 for climber. In Burkina Faso, results are not yet available. 1.2.1.5. Screen available bush and climbing bean germplasm for enhanced biological nitrogen fixation with and without rhizobia inoculation- Uganda; CRSP/USAID Additional support for SABRN (Zambia and S/Tanzania and Zimbabwe) Scaling up In Kenya, over 1000 bean genotypes were evaluated for nitrogen fixation in trials that involved growing of the genotypes with and without rhizobia inoculation. The test lines included advanced lines of diverse market classes, growth habit, tolerance to low soil fertility, drought, mineral density, and resistance to major biotic stresses. Four approaches were followed to initially quantify BNF potential: nodulation, total N yield of the shoot, chlorophyll content (measured with a SPAD) and comparison with non-nodulating strains. Results showed that nodulation was highest at Mwea during the long rain season and lowest at Thika. The low nodulation at Kabete and Thika was attributed to drought stress. Nodules per plant varied from 3.5 at Kabete to 25 at Mwea. A highly significant genotype x environment interaction was detected, indicating that nitrogen fixation varies with environments. Several environmental factors are known to influence nitrogen fixation including soil moisture, rhizobia strain and soil nutrients. Mean number of nodules across sites varied from zero among the four non-nodulating lines to 31 nodules per plant. More than 20 genotypes had over 90 nodules per plant. The best nodulating genotypes were NUA 18, MBC 35, NUV 213, NUV 26, M18, KK20, TU 93-9, NUA 35, KAB 10-9, MBC 32, NUV 41, Gisenyi, COD MLB 30 and G1977. These lines had between 92 and 158 nodules per plant at Mwea during the long rain season. In Uganda, field work on BNF started with testing of three nodulating bean lines, three non-nodulating bean lines (BAT 447, DOR 364, Pueblo 152) and three rhizobia strains (USA, MAK, UON). The trials were planted late September 2010 and harvested in January 2011 (NaCRRI and Mbarara ZARDI) and late February 2011 (Kachwekano ZARDI). The data are currently being analysed. In Zambia, the crop is in the field as the season runs from December to April, while as in southern highlands of Tanzania the crop has just been planted in February. 1.2.1.6. Evaluate and characterize regional nurseries for enhanced BNF and collect local rhizobia strains (to cover countries not supported by N2Africa): Kenya, Southern DRC New activity In ECABREN (Kenya), there was good response to inoculation and phosphorus in some bean varieties, as the yields were doubled by application of these inputs in treated compared with control plots. Rhizobia strain USDA 2668 resulted in higher grain yield followed by USDA 2667 and then CIAT 899. In SABRN, the N2Africa is operating in three countries (Malawi, Mozambique and Zimbabwe), where they have selected a few bean varieties to be promoted alongside use of rhizobium inoculation. In addition, Malawi had initiated some trials where bean varieties which were developed for drought resistance were evaluated for rhizobium inoculation efficiency under both: with and without artificial rhizobium inoculation 1.2.1.7. Understanding mechanism for resistance to: a. Drought and BNF (2009): Student work in Pretoria University – TL -II (BMGF) The overall aim of this study was to understand the effect of drought on bean nodule senescence with a particular emphasis on the relationship between nodulation and overall plant performance under drought conditions. The study measured plant and nodule performance during the life cycle of the plant under both well-watered and total drought conditions by measuring physiological phenotypic parameters for overall plant performance [net photosynthetic assimilation rate, stomatal conductance, evaporation rate, internal CO2 concentration, leaf temperature, quantum yield of photosynthetic electron transport efficiency of photosystem (PS) II reaction centers (Fv/Fm), leaf water potential and above and below ground biomass], and for overall nodule performance (total number, weight and nitrogenase activity). This study compared the performance of soybean and common bean. Preliminary results indicate that drought stress depressed nodule fresh weight and nodule number in two cultivars studied. However, the extent of reduction varied with cultivar. Nitrogenase activity was higher in well watered conditions. Drought reduced nitrogenase activity but the drought tolerant line was less affected. Berhanu has started greenhouse and field research work which involve six bean varieties with contrasting resistance to drought. b. Drought and low P – student thesis Louis Butare completed his PhD thesis and has returned to Rwanda where he has assumed the leadership of the Rwandan National Bean Program. 7  c. Genetics of resistance to bean fly in Kenya supported by AGRA Pascal Okwiri has completed his field studies in Kenya and is currently writing his PhD thesis at the University of KwaZulu Natal in South Africa. d. Bruchid resistance and its Inheritance in Malawian Dry Bean Germplasm Supported by AGRA Work is in progress to evaluate for grain yield and general adaptation to generate data for variety release of the progenies from the crosses that were generated during a PhD thesis research by Dr Geoffrey Kananji. These progenies were generated to understand the inheritance of bruchid resistance in beans. 1.2.1.8. Validate the mass rearing technique for screening germplasm for resistance to bean stem maggot Increase seed of BSM resistant lines and distribute regional nursery; train scientists in mass rearing techniques (Uganda, Ethiopia and Kenya); screen bean germplasm for resistance to A big challenge facing bean breeders who work on insect resistance is the attainment of optimal pest pressure under field conditions to effectively screen genotypes for resistance and avoid escapes (Hillocks et al, 2006; Okwiri et al, 2010). PABRA therefore contracted work to develop a mass rearing technique. Limited progress has been made in validating the mass rearing technique for bean stem maggot. However, studies of Pascal Okwiri indicated that delaying planting by two weeks at the onset of the cropping season can enhance bean stem maggot populations and reduce incidence of escapes. The population dynamics of bean stem maggot is known to depend on the time of the season, and delayed planting results in buildup of O. phaseoli. BSM in SABRN Scaling up In Kenya, 64 lines of diverse origin were evaluated for resistance to bean stem maggot under irrigated and non-irrigated conditions at Kiboko. Seven genotypes showed combined resistance to drought and bean stem maggot. These were GBK 047810, GBK 047866, G21212, GBK 047821, GBK 036488, CIM 9314-36 and Ikinimba. Lines resistant/tolerant to BSM were received in Uganda from Nairobi to initiate work on BSM resistance breeding. In Rwanda; a BSM nursery is being evaluated under the Soil Health Program of AGRA In SABRN a nursery for BSM was distributed to Angola, Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania and Zambia. In addition the screening of bean germplasm for BSM resistance has been initiated at Bunda College of Agriculture, where over 200 bean lines which were previously evaluated for drought resistance under TL-II, were planted under irrigation to screen them for BSM resistance, and the crop is still in the field. In Zimbabwe, through the on-farm evaluation of drought resistant lines under TL-II project, some bean lines were subjected to severe BSM attack, which allowed scientists to evaluate the lines for BSM resistance. 1.2.1.9. Conduct genetic analysis of resistance to Fusarium root rot, and identify useful QTL Kelvin Kamfwa completed his studies and will be graduating in January 2011. One of the two SSR markers, PVBR87 spanning the QTL for Fusarium root rot resistance, showed significant association with FRR resistance in two other populations, other than the mapping population, indicating its stability in different genetic backgrounds. However it still requires further validation in different environments and in additional genetic backgrounds to determine its use for marker-assisted breeding for improving resistance to FRR. Analysis of 72 F3 populations developed from a partial diallel mating design of six sources of resistance and three commercial varieties in Uganda have shown the persistence of maternal and non maternal effects in resistance to Fusarium root rot. Populations segregating for resistance to Fusarium root rot were advanced to F5 and are available to NARS for own screening. 1.2.1.10. Validate and utilize new and existing markers for ALS, ANT, and CBB Obtain additional pre-mixes and reagents for MAS at Kabete, Kawanda and Namulonge labs Scaling up Several markers obtained from CIAT were validated at the molecular breeding laboratory at Kabete (Kenya), and Namulonge and Kawanda (Uganda). They included markers for angular leaf spot, anthracnose, root rots and bean common mosaic virus. They are currently being used to select breeding populations for multiple resistances. 1.2.1.11. Monitor environmental impact of some of the bean based technologies – RW, SZ Uganda Trials have been established focusing on integrated INM and variety effects, some parameters (including growth, incidence of pests and diseases) are being assessed; other parameters to be monitored soon include, soil, runoff and nutrients losses; N fixation) using runoff approach. 1.2.1.12. Develop an inventory of technologies developed across PABRA and their potential impact on the environment (centrally done) New activity The process of developing an inventory has been initiated that is based on expert knowledge and secondary information with PABRA partners. 1.2.1.13. Development of male breeding parents (ALS, Anthracnose, BCMV, Root rot resistance) using marker assisted gamete selection – KHT In Kenya, development of populations started with crosses to generate F1s among parents with different sources of resistance at Kabete. The following crosses were made: G2333/ G10909// AND 1062 – combining anthracnose, angular leaf spot and root rot resistance; G2333/G10909//RWR 719-combining anthracnose, angular leaf spot and root rot resistance;G2333/Mex 54//AND 1062- to combine anthracnose, angular leaf spot and root rots; and G2333/Mex 54//RWR 719 - to combine anthracnose, angular leaf spot and root roots. 8  Others include G2333 x G10474 (and reciprocal), G2333 x Mex 54, RWR 719x BRB 189, G10909 x G2333, AND 1062 x BRB 189 and VAX 6/BRB 191. These F1 will be used to generate three-way and double cross gametes that will be screened with validated markers. At Namulonge (Uganda), similar efforts were made to pyramid genes for resistance to anthracnose, angular leaf spot, bean common mosaic necrotic virus (BCMNV), common bacterial blight and root rots in the same background (male parent) and then transfer the resistance to susceptible landraces and commercial varieties. Single crosses among eight parents were generated. In Kawanda, two–way, three-way and double crosses were designed to pyramid genes for resistance to ALS, root rot, BCMV and anthracnose. The source of resistance for ALS was MEX54, anthracnose was G2333, root rots was RWR719, MLB-49-89A and Vuninkingi; and BCMV (5 sources). To date, more than 200 F2 plants from each of the crosses MCM5001 x G2333 and MCM 1015 X G2333 (BCMNV and anthracnose) and MLB-49-89A X MEX 54 and RWR 719 x MEX 54 (Pythium root rots and angular leaf spot resistance) have been analyzed using molecular markers. Crosses to pyramid resistance genes to Fusarium root rot resistance genes from six sources of resistance and anthracnose from two sources of resistance have been developed. To date 43 F2 plants have two gene combinations for Pythium root rot and Angular leaf spot (prr + Phg-2) and seven plants have four genes combined for BCMV and Anthracnose (Co4, Co5, I, bc3). Four way crosses are being conducted with simultaneous testing for gene combinations. Activity sets#1.2.2: Identify, select and test widely new multiple stress resistant bean germplasm for release 1.2.2.1 Develop (i) evaluate the existing/create new populations ,(ii) select recombinants under stresses,) varieties with resistance to these pests and diseases including utilizing P. coccineus as a source of resistance especially to the new diseases cropping up due to climate change and MAS-. For MAS: KE, UG, RW, TZ - (NARS Funds supported by Kirkhouse 120,000 US$) CIAT = 15,000. Several programs in ECABREN generated new breeding populations to facilitate selection of new farmer-preferred varieties with multiple resistance to biotic (diseases and pests) and abiotic (drought and tolerance to low soil fertility) stresses. In Uganda, nine F1 combinations were developed at Namulonge. A total of 1934 F1 seed were generated. The F1 will be combined in three-way and double crosses to pyramid resistance to multiple diseases. In Kenya, ten single and three way crosses were generated. The F1 were used to generate four and five-way crosses. In Tanzania populations are also being developed and are being advanced through marker assisted gamete selection. New populations aimed at combining genes for resistance to angular leaf spot, anthracnose, BCMV, CBB, and root rot disease in one breeding parent with the aid of markers have been developed by NARs scientists in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania with support from Kirkhouse Trust. 1.2.2.2. Pyramid Fusarium root rot resistance genes AGRA- MSc. Student The MSc AGRA student submitted his thesis to Makerere University. In this study, single and double crosses were developed to pyramid resistance genes from six different sources with varying levels of resistance to Fusarium root rot (MLB-48-89A, MLB-49-89A, G2333, RWR719, G9435 and G685 (G6), One DC F1 (MLB-49-89A x MLB-48-89A) x (G2333 x G685) and each of the resistant parents were crossed to the two susceptible cultivars (Kanyebwa and CAL96) to form one five-parent cross and four single crosses, respectively. Parental, F1 and F2 populations were subjected to Fusarium solani f. sp. phaseoli isolate-3. Two to three genes were found segregating in the R x R single crosses and apparently at least four genes segregated in the double cross population indicating three of the four resistant parents differed from each other by at least one gene and two of the four parents have at least one gene in common. Genetic effects among the crosses included additive and dominance effects and epistatic interactions. Five-parent crosses performed better than the single crosses, demonstrating the potential of using combined resistance in improving resistance to FRR in susceptible bean cultivars. 1.2.2.3 Inheritance of resistance to Fusarium root rot in pythium resistant common bean genotypes with the aid of developed markers -RUFORUM Msc Student Patrick Ongom the AGRA MSc student defended his Thesis and will be graduating in January 2011. In this study, the inheritance of Fusarium root rot resistance in three Pythium root rot resistant varieties (RWR 719, NABE 14 and NABE 13) was determined. The study also ascertained whether the SCAR marker PYAA19800 linked to Pythium resistance gene is also linked to Fusarium root rot resistance. A 5 x 5 full diallel mating design involving the three resistant and two susceptible genotypes (K132 and NABE 4) was used to generate F1 and F2 populations. The F2:3 populations of RWR 719 and K132 cross were screened with the P. ultimum isolate and the SCAR marker PYAA19800. The genetic linkage test showed that resistance to Fusarium root rot was independent of the major gene for Pythium resistance in RWR 719 (χ2 = 4.96, P = 0.29) and marker-trait association analysis revealed that the Pythium SCAR marker PYAA19 was not associated with Fusarium root rot resistance in RWR 719 (R2 = 0.005, P ≤ 0.49), but was strongly associated with Pythium resistance (R2 = 0.77, P ≤ 0.001). 9  1.2.2.4. Breeding for anthracnose disease resistance in Uganda’s market class dry beans: Advancement of segregating materials through pedigree selection. (Supported by AGRA) A total of 415 lines resistant to anthracnose were selected from crosses between sources of resistance to anthracnose and popular varieties and land races in Uganda. The susceptible parents included K 132, K 20, Kanyebwa, NABE 13 (RWR 1946), NABE 14 (RWR 2075) and Masindi Yellow. About 296 lines with stable resistance were moved and evaluated in preliminary yield trials. 1.2.2.5. Improve resistance of climbing beans in Rwanda to root rot caused by Pythium spp (PhD Student supported by Kirkhouse Trust) The student John Nzungize completed his thesis focusing on improving resistance of selected Rwandan commercial varieties against root rots. He has submitted his Thesis. His materials are being advanced in Rwanda and Uganda 1.2.2.6. Integrating the use of common bean genotypes possessing tolerance to both the bean root rot disease and low soil fertility for sustainable food security, nutrition and household incomes in the mountain districts of Uganda (PhD student supported by AGRA) The PhD study focuses on three objectives: 1. Inheritance studies for Pythium root rots in RWR 2075 and RWR 1946; 2) Screening of the known low soil fertility tolerant lines for reaction to the root rot diseases, 3) Allelism between RWR 2075, RWR 1946 and RWR 719. Data collection for objectives 1 and 2 is nearly complete. Crosses were made for objectives 3 with harvesting of F1 and its evaluation using ratification inoculation expected in the next half year. 1.2.2.7. Breeding for Fusarium wilt in climbing beans in Rwanda (supported by AGRA) Fusarium wilt is one of the most devastating bean diseases in Rwanda and other countries in eastern Africa. It has adversely affected production of some of the most popular climbing bean varieties such as Umubano. Previous studies established the incidence and severity of this disease in Rwanda, and identified good sources of resistance, determined the nature the nature of resistance to Fusarium wilt and transfer of the resistance to susceptible varieties. Several climbing bean lines combining resistance to fusarium wilt and other diseases with market preferred grain types that had been identified continued to be evaluated in multi-location trials in Rwanda and selection made. These are being advanced in the coming season as well 1.2.2.8. Improve Angular leaf spot and Anthracnose disease resistance in common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) in Southern Highlands of Tanzania (supported by AGRA) Evaluation of advanced lines derived from crosses developed to combine resistance to both ALS and Anthracnose continue in the second half of the year. . 1.2.2.9. Breeding for Root rot resistance in Kenya (supported by AGRA and PABRA) Activities leading to development of bean lines with resistance to root rot continued at KARI-Kakamega, University of Nairobi and KARI-Embu. At KARI-Kakamega, populations with resistance to root rots were developed and advanced to the third backcross generation to recover high levels of resistance and market preferred grain types. At the University of Nairobi, new populations were developed using two sources of resistance to root rots: RWR 719 and AND 1062. Resistance to root rots was combined with genes for resistance to angular leaf spot, anthracnose, common bacterial blight and bean common mosaic virus and is being transferred susceptible bush commercial varieties such as Rosecoco (GLP2), Canadian Wonder (GLP 24), Wairimu (GLP 585) and Mexican 142, and climbing beans varieties. At KARI-Embu, selections were made from advanced red mottled and red kidney lines obtained from the regional program and from CIAT-Kawanda. Four lines were submitted for the national performance trials. These lines combine resistance to root rots and angular leaf spot with farmer preferred red mottled and red kidney grain types. These lines have also showed remarkable adaptation to low fertility acid soils. 1.2.2.10. Conduct training on MAS and disease phenotyping for 4 NARS technicians and scientists, UG, KE, RW, TZ: (Kirkhouse 20,000 USD) A training course on marker assisted selection (MAS) and disease phenotyping for eight beneficiaries of the Kirkhouse Trust African Bean Breeding projects was held at in Kawanda in April, 2010 and Sokoine University of Agriculture in May, 2010. The trainings enhanced the capacity of the participants that were drawn from Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania in the practical application of MAS for resistance to major bean diseases (angular leaf spot, anthracnose, bean common mosaic virus/bean common mosaic necrotic virus disease, common bacterial blight and pythium root rot). 1.2.2.11. Establish infrastructural capacities (lab, field and green house facilities) in four countries KT (Kirkhouse 120,000 USD) Basic infrastructures for marker assisted breeding were established at the University of Nairobi in Kenya, NACCRI-Namulonge in Uganda and at Sokoine University of Agriculture in Tanzania. The laboratories are functional and have started validating markers and screening protocols. A bio-safety level II screen house is completed at NaCRRI with one office space and a store. The office has already been furnished to accommodate three technicians. The temperature in the screen house has been reduced by placing heat reducing polythene and the screen house is ready for use. 1.2.2.12 Evaluate existing or new populations, and select recombinants under priority biotic and abiotic stresses. Additional support for SABRN countries (Zambia, South Africa) not Several programs in ECABREN selected lines combining resistance to priority biotic and abiotic stresses from existing and new populations. In Burundi, four F8 lines combining resistance to angular leaf spot, root rots, high yield potential and earliness were selected at Murongwe following farmer participatory approach. In Ethiopia, 453 lines were selected for multiple stress resistance from 557 entries introduced from CIAT. About 352 genotypes (134 from Awash Melka crosses, 50 from climbers, 42 from Andean bush and the 126 sugar 10  covered by MCK or BMGF Scaling up beans) with excellent drought tolerance, yield potential and grain type were selected for additional testing under multiple constraint environments. Twenty-nine single crosses were generated at Melkassa and used to make16 double crosses. The crosses originated from nine parents selected for desirable but contrasting traits. 1356 F2 populations were harvested for further evaluation under various biotic and abiotic stresses prevailing in Ethiopia and for germplasm exchange. In Uganda, 2,548 advanced populations were developed for participatory evaluation and selections and subsequent release of any promising genotypes. These are mostly early maturing lines made from improving local land races such as Kanyebwa and earlier released varieties such as K132 1.2.2.13. Continue development, and testing in advanced yield trials and variety release of varieties with resistance to multiple constraints (ALL PABRA countries) Additional support for SABRN countries not covered by MCK and BMGF projects. Provide support to pay for NPT and DUS tests in countries where they are mandatory Scaling up Nearly all countries in ECABREN made considerable progress in evaluating advanced lines in multilocation yield trials to identify candidate varieties for release. Several lines were identified and some were formally released. Evaluation of advanced lines for adaptability and acceptability went on both on station and at farm level. In Burundi, a total of 28 lines were tested on-farm during season B and six lines (RWR2091, Ms’ole, Gasilda, RWV 1249, GLP2 and Ngwakungwaku) were recommended for release. Also, 24 medium altitude climbers (MACs) were selected at Moso. They are currently being evaluated at a low altitude site at Moso (1250 masl) and at a medium altitude site at Murongwe (1500 masl). Another eight lines (AFR676-2-1, AFR708, ARA4, M’sole, ECAPAN 006, HM21-7, RWR1873 and RWR1896) adapted to low soil fertility (from BILFA nursery) are being evaluated in farmers’ fields. Seed of the low soil fertility tolerant lines was increased in preparation for formal release. In Ethiopia, F1 generation obtained from double crosses of 2009 main season were back crossed to selected parents during offseason of 2010 at Melkassa and 1357 F3 lines were evaluated for their desirable traits at on the same season. Twenty-three lines selected for drought resistance were evaluated in preliminary yield trials under moisture stressed and non-stressed conditions in Melkassa and Awassa. Mean yield under drought stress varied from 412 to 1442 kg ha-1 with a mean of 884 kg ha-1 compared with 615 to 1977 kg ha-1 in non-stressed plots. Ten lines showed better yields than the best check (Nasir) under drought conditions. The test lines were also evaluated in participatory variety trials at six sites. Nine new lines received favourable scores at all locations and were rated drought tolerant by farmers. The nine lines were further evaluated at four locations during the main bean season. A total of 299 introduced and elite materials from different market classes were planted and evaluated for multiple stress resistance at Melkassa, Ethiopia during the off and main seasons of 2010 and genotypes resistant/tolerant to multiple diseases (CBB, Anthracnose, Rust, and halo blight) were identified for the next evaluation phase. A preliminary variety trial containing twenty five early maturing varieties was conducted to identify suitable varieties for areas with short growing season (belg) and residual moisture and 12 promising varieties were selected on the bases of seed yield and early maturity (60-70 days) were selected and will be promoted to national variety performance trial in the coming season. A national variety trial comprised of sixteen navy bean varieties was carried out at Melkasa, Alemtena, Haramaya, Sirinka locations. Promising lines with different degree of drought tolerance were identified. The trial will be repeated for one more season in 2011. In Kenya, 50 lines of seven market classes were selected for drought resistance in on-station trials and in eight on–farm PVS trials in drought prone areas. At Kabete, results showed that selected red mottled lines gave yield advantage of 31 to 53% compared with the check varieties (GLP 2 and Kat 69). The lines showed yield advantage of more than 54% in on-farm trials. In Tanzania, 8 bush and 10 climbing bean lines were selected for drought tolerance in a participatory variety trial with 19 farmers at Madiira. In Uganda, 41 lines selected for resistance to anthracnose were evaluated in advanced yield trials. Eighteen lines were selected and evaluated in multilocation advanced yield trials. Fifteen lines were also evaluated in participatory variety selection trials (PVS) at 11 locations in four districts. Five breeding lines namely NARBL 60, NARBL 110, NARBL 122-1, NARB 220 and NARBL 253 are currently under DUS (distinctiveness, uniformity and stability) test and await release. Two bean varieties NABE 15 and NABE 16 were released in April 2010. They are early maturing (65 days) and resistant to anthracnose disease and of the preferred seed type. In addition, two nurseries; Andean Drought and Advanced bc3” with 130 and 58 lines respectively were evaluated in Northern Tanzania; selected lines will be included in Preliminary Yield Trial (PYT) in the coming season (2011A). Sixty two (62) promising lines of the bush type selected from the introductions were evaluated on station in 2010A and 21 best lines were selected and evaluated at AYT stage in two on station locations. Twelve best lines of beans selected from the 21 lines (AYT) plus four checks were further evaluated for uniformity at the two on-station locations sites in 2010 11  during main rain season. The best lines shall be advanced to on-farm trials next season 2011A. A different set of 12 lines were evaluated on-farm at 3 sites in 2010 during main rain season. Seven best lines (Kiimarisho, Hujuti, Ushindi, AND 1064-1, UBR (96)5-1, SEQ 1000, Teebus) selected last season by farmers were verified in five locations..In Madagascar, seed of 12 varieties due for release was increased at Cala Ambatondrazaka (FOFIFA station), Mahitsy (with AMADEA), and at Itasy (with a federation of FGs). A total of 6341 kg were produced and distributed to farmers through partners. In Sudan, two new candidate lines (Harris and KO44) gave up to 36% better yield compared with check varieties (Mutwakil and Giza 3) in a variety verification trial. Mutwakil and Giza 3 are grown by more than 70% of farmers in Sudan. 1. Two semi-climbers (SER 30 and SER16) have yield potential of up to 2.5 t ha-1 and were bred for drought tolerance. Several ECAB lines of diverse market classes and high yield potential were evaluated in adaptation trials in eastern Rwanda (Kibungo and Gitarama). They include ECAB 0253 (red kidney); ECAB0026 (red mottled); ECAB 0511(carioca); ECAB0503 (carioca); ECAB0266 (red kidney), ECAB 0019 (red mottled). Other lines with good adaptation include ECAB 007; ECAB 001; ECAB 004 and ECAB 0064. Seed was increased for wider testing and dissemination in Gitarama. In EDRC, four bean varieties AFR 708, BRB 194, K 131and CODMLB 007 were selected from a NUTRIBEAN nursery and two Bean Stem Maggot (BSM) tolerance lines; RWR 10, HM21-7 were selected. In addition, many simple, three-way and double crosses to combine root rot, angular leaf spot (ALS), bean common mosaic virus (BCMV) and bean common mosaic necrotic virus (BCMNV), anthracnose (Anth) and common bacterial blight (CBB) were developed. Selections have been made from materials received from CIAT Kawanda in EDRC and Burundi. In EDRC 15 lines from 36 root rot resist lines and 972 plants from 65 segregating populations for Pythium root rot were selected. Sixty-six plants were selected from 21 F3 BC-S3 segregating population developed for “I” gene protection and 178 plants were selected from 46 dual angular leaf spot and Pythium root rot resistant lines and in Burundi 44 lines selected out of 68 root rot resistant lines. More than 50 new crosses were made to introduce ALS, rust and Anth in commercial lines in Rwanda Crosses between root rot resistant commercial varieties RWR 719, RWR 1946 and RWR 2075 and nine sources of I and bc-3 genes that confer resistance to Bean common mosaic necrosis virus were developed at CIAT/PABRA-Kawanda. The aim was to introgress the bc-3 gene into the market class varieties by using molecular markers to identify and advance only those materials that had either bc-3 gene alone or a combination of both genes. To date, selections showing presence of the “bc-3” and “I” gene using the SW13 and ROC11 markers have been developed. These selections are available for NARs partners to make own selections. In SABRN, gene stacking, which includes (rust + rust/ALS/ANT/root rot/common bacterial blight [CBB]), as well as (rust + rust + CBB) and (rust + ALS + halo blight) is being continued in South Africa. Two groups of F2 and F3 plants from approx 265 lines (>1600 plants) were screened in the greenhouse for rust resistance, one for common blight (approx 180 plants) and one (approx 200 plants) for halo blight resistance. Resistant plants are being planted in the field for rust screening. Further backcrosses were or are being made as necessary. The progeny of resistant plants screened in the greenhouse, as well as single plant and mass selections made during the previous season, were planted at between two and four localities during the 2009/2010 summer and 2010 winter seasons. In a separate trial, 476 lines (RSS) with combined resistance to CBB, ALS and Rust were planted at Cedara in a checkrow trial from which 33 were selected for further evaluation. In Zimbabwe, various variety yield trials (preliminary, intermediate and advanced) were conducted at Harare and Gwebi. In the intermediate yield trials, at Harare, the yield ranged from 708 kg ha-1 (DRK 151) to 2035 kg ha-1 (PAN 148) whilst the range at Gwebi was 632 kg ha-1 (Speckled Ice) to 2824 kg ha-1 (GCI-CAL-151-AR). Significant (p<0.001) genotype x environment interactions were observed, indicating a differential response of various genotypes to different environments. Promising lines as GCI- CAL-151-AR, RMA 18, VAX6, and DRK 134 will be evaluated further in the advanced variety series. From the advanced yield trials, which were conducted at Harare, Gwebi, Kadoma, Save Valley and Makoholi, the results showed that the yield ranged from 70 kg ha-1 at Makoholi to 3330 kg ha-1 at Gwebi. Advanced lines such as VTTT925/9-1-2, AFR 640, DRK 126 and DRK 151 had a fair performance compared to other lines and check varieties. A number of varieties have been identified to be put under on-farm trials in the next season. On-farm evaluations were conducted in Zimbabwe, Malawi, Zambia and Mauritius. In Zimbabwe 15 bean lines were evaluated in the 12  fields of about 100 farmers at 12 sites and each farmer was used as a replicate. Yield of the lines ranged from 238 kg/ha (genotype Iris) to 1222 kg/ha (SEQ 1005). Field days were organized per site to get feedback from farmers. Farmers preferred NUA 45 (basing on disease resistance and yield), PAN 148, Gloria and Cardinal. Mother-baby design will be used this coming season following the farmer’s recommendations. In Malawi, germplasm evaluation from the regional nursery showed that some of the entries were high yielding (1800 to 2000 kg ha-1). These included MC 12832-129-3, SER 86, RCB 238, and NCB 285, which also had ALS, CBB and BCMV resistance at Chitedze, Malawi. For drought, it was SX 14337-11 which performed best, and for bean stem maggot it was BSM 5-2. Both national and regional yield trials were conducted to evaluate elite bean lines and generate data for variety release. From the regional trials, the results showed that CAL 143 (Napilira), the local check variety gave the highest grain yield (1520 kg ha-1). Other varieties with good yield performance included MC 31832-129-1 (1458 kg ha-1) and RMA 20 (1333 kg ha-1). ALS and BCMV are the only diseases that were observed but symptoms were mild while CBB symptoms were not observed in the regional trial. In the national yield trial, the results were slightly different in that two bean genotypes (GCI-CAL-172-AR and MR13557-16-7) had better grain yield than the check variety Napilira (CAL 143). In Zambia, national multi-location yield trials were conducted at Msekera, Mt. Malulu, Mutanda and Msekera. Notable lines that performed well included a local climbing bean collection which gave yields of more than 4.0 mt ha-1, comprising RA3163-3-1-2, RMA 18, and MC 12832-129-3. The regional bean yield trial was also conducted to test the performance of the bean varieties assembled at regional level at targeted sites in Zambia. The yield performance ranged from 508 -2578 kg ha-1 indicating potential high yielding lines that could be advanced for inclusion in the national trial. The top yielding lines were MC-12832-129-3, SER 86, CIM- KHAKI 02-24-1, SER 45 and MC 12832-129-1. Some of these lines (SER45 and SER86) were developed for drought resistance. In Mauritius, bean nurseries were planted in May 2010 at Reduit and many varieties gave higher yields compared to the control. For the GCI Dry Bean lines Set II, most of the varieties which were developed to combine good grain quality, high yield and resistance to bean diseases, were better than the control variety - Long Tom, the highest yielding variety being GCI-MY-316-RAR. The performance of the commercial varieties was not good; only varieties VTTT924/10-7 and VTTT 912/10-4 gave yields higher than Long Tom. Regarding the Red Kidney Bean Nursery 2009 series, varieties SEQ 1006, DRK 134 and DRK 156 yielded 4, 3.9 and 3.6 t/ha, respectively. In conclusion, many entries were found promising. Seed multiplication of the promising varieties is being carried out to obtain enough seeds to go into multi-location semi-commercial field trials, under bean grower’s conditions. This will enable the selection of one or more bean variety to be released for commercial cultivation in Mauritius. In Lesotho, the bean program evaluated several bean germplasm from South Africa and SABRN to identify some with high yield potential, which were also resistant to major pests and diseases, but also adapted to prevalent drought and short growing seasons to escape early frost damage. The results showed that from SARBYT: CAL143, Cannelin (Argentina) and RMA 20 performed well. In addition, from South African germplasm, OPS-RS1, PAN 9292, PAN 116 and RS5. In WECABREN, this activity continued in Cameroon in 2010 with advanced yield trial of Biofort, MAC, MCR and BILFA. The following best varieties yielded more than 2000 Kg/ha: AND620, AFR708, RWR-10, PVA8, Ty3396-12, SELIAN97, MCM2001, Nain de Kyondo, Mex142, MAC Mbouda, ECAPAN021, Nguaku, RWR 1873, UBR (92)25, DFA55, DOR 701, DINIANIA,KNX60, ECAPAN004, KNX*&, KNX89. The varieties Ty3396-12, Mex142 and Nain de Kyondo best preferred by farmers are at the stage of pre- release. The activity will be conducted in the other countries (CAR, Congo Brazzaville, Guinea Conakry) in 2011. 1.2.2.14. Develop new populations combining drought with resistance to biotic stresses New populations combining drought with resistance to biotic stresses were developed in Ethiopia and Kenya. Additional Andean and Mesoamerican segregating populations (F1.2, F1.4 and F4.6) and interspecific crosses (P. vulgaris x P. acutifolius) received from CIAT- Colombia are being evaluated for drought resistance in Ethiopia and Kenya. 1.2.2.15. Transfer bc3 gene to susceptible bush and climbing bean varieties Crosses were developed to incorporate bc-3 gene into susceptible bush and climbing bean varieties in Uganda and Kenya. Fifty-nine lines with bc-3 gene are being evaluated in Kenya and Ethiopia. 1.2.2.16. Evaluate introduced germplasm for multiple stress resistance including drought in SABRN & WECABREN Additional support for SABRN countries (Zambia, S/Tanzania, Mozambique and South DR Congo) not covered under BMGF Scaling up In SABRN countries, the small seeded drought, resistant germplasm which also has resistance to several other diseases was distributed to Angola, Congo, Lesotho, Swaziland, and Tanzania for evaluation. In Zimbabwe, the same germplasm was evaluated on-station and on- farm through TL-II project and they found that some high yielding lines under drought conditions, were also tolerant resistant to diseases like common bacterial blight (CBB). In WECABREN, evaluation of introduced germplasm was done in 5 countries. The promising varieties were KNX85, Meringue, Nguaku 13  Nguaku, PV 014/2, KNX107?LM-2 in CAR; IDS85-672, KNX85, BINIANIA and BF^ in Burkina Faso; MEX142, KNX60, KNX114, UBR (92)25, CIM933-1, Nain de Kyondo, ECAPAN013,ECAPAN004and Nguaku Nguaku in Burkina Faso,; MBIDI, KNX107/LM-1, KNX106/LM-2, KNX 114, KNX106 Meringue in Senegal. Work on Tepary and Lima bean has not yet started in Burkina Faso and Sierra Leone. 1.2.2.17. Conduct farmer participatory selection of lines with multiple resistance in WECABREN (Cameroon, Central African Republic, Congo-Brazzaville, Togo, Guinea-Conakry, Ghana, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Mali and Burkina Faso $1,500 each country) New activity Activities in WECABREN focused on preliminary increase and evaluation of germplasm received mainly from ECABREN. Germplasm initially shipped to Cameroon and subsequently to other West and Central African countries included micronutrient rich (Biofort) lines, lines adapted to low soil fertility (Bilfa), large and small seeded advanced lines with multiple resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses, and climbing bean lines with known adaptation to medium altitude regions. Due to the importance of snap beans in the region, more than 60 F2 and F4 populations segregating, advanced lines of bush and climbing beans were distributed to Cameroon, Togo, Senegal and Sierra Leone in 2010. Several lines were selected from these genotypes. In Cameroon, 50 bush, semi-climbing and climbing bean lines were selected from the initial 117 lines evaluated. Selection was based on adaptation to local conditions and tolerance to diseases (especially angular leaf spot and common bacterial blight) and low soil fertility conditions at low, medium and high altitude locations. These lines were subsequently evaluated on-farm and on-station trials. For example, at Ekona in south-western Cameroon, farmers and researchers identified several outstanding lines. These included TY 3396-12 (biofort), MAC 55, ECAPAN 021, NITU (G16157), AFR 708 and several ECAB lines. Cameroon bean program also increased seed of the promising lines and shipped them to other WECABREN countries with similar or comparable climatic conditions for evaluation. Seed of 38 promising lines was produced in Cameroon for distribution to other WECABREN countries. Another 112 kg of seed for 31 selected lines was increased at Foumbot to facilitate participatory variety trials in other regions of Cameroon. More than 200 kg of foundation seed was distributed to farmers in agro-ecological zone III and V of Cameroon. In Congo-Brazzaville, 101 bean lines introduced lines (from DR Congo and Kenya) were initially grown in observation trials and their seed increased. They were subsequently evaluated on-farm at three sites. Results showed that the most adapted lines were originated from multiple constraint, biofort and Bilfa nurseries. Outstanding lines were KNX55, KNX85, KNX86 and KNX 122; A445 from the multiple constraint nursery and CODMLB007, CODMLB078, AND620, NGUAKU-NGUAKU, K131, BRB194 and HM21-7 from Biofort and Bilfa nurseries. In Central African Republic, 47 bean bush, 20 bean climber and 25 drought resistant lines were introduced and evaluated in observation nurseries. In Togo and Guinea, 68 bean lines (43 bush, 16 semi-climbers and 9 climbers) were introduced from Cameroon. Seed of these lines were increased and evaluated in adaptation trials. In WECABREN, the activities focused on preliminary increase and evaluation of germplasm received mainly from ECABREN. Germplasm initially shipped to Cameroon and subsequently to other West and Central African countries included micronutrient rich (Biofort) lines, lines adapted to low soil fertility (Bilfa), large and small seeded advanced lines with multiple resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses, and climbing bean lines with known adaptation to medium altitude regions. Due to the importance of snap beans in the region, more than 60 F2 and F4 populations segregating, advanced lines of bush and climbing beans were distributed to Cameroon, Togo, Senegal and Sierra Leone in 2010. Several lines were selected from these genotypes. In Cameroon, 50 bush, semi-climbing and climbing bean lines were selected from the initial 117 lines evaluated. Selection was based on adaptation to local conditions and tolerance to diseases (especially angular leaf spot and common bacterial blight) and low soil fertility conditions at low, medium and high altitude locations. These lines were subsequently evaluated on-farm and on-station trials. For example, at Ekona in south-western Cameroon, farmers and researchers identified several outstanding lines. These included TY 3396-12 (biofort), MAC 55, ECAPAN 021, NITU (G16157), AFR 708 and several ECAB lines. Cameroon bean program also increased seed of the promising lines and shipped them to other WECABREN countries with similar or comparable climatic conditions for evaluation. Seed of 38 promising lines was produced in Cameroon for distribution to other WECABREN countries. Another 112 kg of seed for 31 selected lines was increased at Foumbot to facilitate participatory variety trials in other regions of Cameroon. More than 200 kg of foundation seed was distributed to farmers in agro- ecological zone III and V of Cameroon. In Congo-Brazzaville, 101 bean lines introduced lines (from DR Congo and Kenya) were initially grown in observation trials and their seed increased. They were subsequently evaluated on-farm at three sites. Results showed that the most adapted lines were originated from multiple constraint, biofort and Bilfa nurseries. Outstanding lines were KNX55, KNX85, KNX86 and KNX 122; A445 from the multiple constraint nursery and CODMLB007, CODMLB078, AND620, NGUAKU-NGUAKU, K131, 14  BRB194 and HM21-7 from Biofort and Bilfa nurseries. In Central African Republic, 47 bean bush, 20 bean climber and 25 drought resistant lines were introduced and evaluated in observation nurseries. In Togo and Guinea, 68 bean lines (43 bush, 16 semi-climbers and 9 climbers) were introduced from Cameroon. Seed of these lines were increased and evaluated in adaptation trials. A guide for PVS implementation has been written in French by Dr. Nounamo based on Cameroon experience. 1.2.2.18 Conduct preliminary and national variety evaluation for adaptation to various stress factors: acidic soils, heat, short growing season, drought, diseases, low N & P, and pests Additional support for two WECABREN countries Scaling up Preliminary variety evaluation for adaptation to acidic soils was conducted in Ethiopia during the belg season at Shashamane and Siraro in Melkassa with the aim of identifying at least five lines adapted to acidic soils and other stresses. The trial was planted at testing sites having soil acidity problems.Twenty five entries were evaluated for adaptation to the short growing season (belg) or under residual moisture. In a preliminary variety trial at two testing sites (Shashamane and Siraro) in Melkassa. Data were collected from all the sites and are being analyzed. A preliminary variety trial containing twenty early maturing varieties was conducted. Data from Siraro was not reliable due to erratic rainfall, but in Shashamane significant difference among entries in days to flowering and maturity were observed. The analysis of variance revealed that five entries with a yield range of 1895.2 to 2123.7 kg/ha gave higher yield than the check variety, Batu (1856.8 kg/ha). Twelve promising varieties were identified on the bases of seed yield and early maturity (60-70 days) and will be promoted to national variety performance trial in the coming season In WECABREN, the activity was planned in Burkina Faso, CAR and Congo Brazzaville , but the work is yet to start 1.2.2.19. Evaluate germplasm for tolerance to heat and drought stress in the Sahelian region (Togo and Mali), and to high humidity and adaptation to low soil fertility soils in lowlands of West Africa (Cameroon) New activity Sixty-eight lines of diverse growth habits, and tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses were introduced in Togo. These lines were evaluated in northern drought prone regions near Kara in the northern part. This region also suffers heat stress. Fifteen 15 bush (VTTT921, G22501, ECAB0240, K26/35CFM, ECAB0401, K1 10A1F121, ZEBRA, PVO14/2, PVO14, ECAB0426, ECAB0416, NR12632-9, ECAB0702, KK15), four semi-climber (KJ4-3, MAC54, MAC55, SEPE) and 14 climbers (BF, MERINGUE, ZAA5/2, BF5, ECAB0056, KNX87, KNX89, KNX26/LM -7, MANSEKI, TY3396-12, ECAB0421, GLP2, SEQ11007 and LUNDAMBA) were selected. The genotypes showed good seed fill despite drought and heat stress. It is interesting to note that some genotypes with bush growth habit in eastern Africa (such as TY3396-12, Mex 142 and GLP 2), show indeterminate growth habit in warmer and wetter regions of West and Central Africa. The selected lines will be evaluated in other potential bean production regions of Togo. In Cameroon, several lines with good adaptation to low soil fertility have been identified following evaluation of BILFA lines at several test sites. Outstanding lines include TY 3396-12, HM 21-6, ECAPAN 024, ECAPAN 004, ECAPAN 015, ECAPAN 019, ECAPAN 009, ECAPAN 018, ECAPAN 017, ECAPAN 002, ECAPAN 021, HM21-7, FEB 192 and RWR 1873. ECAPAN (East and Central adaptation to low soil P, Acidity and Nitrogen) were derived from crosses between first generation BILFA (I &II) lines and susceptible commercial varieties. Some of the low soil fertility lines have also shown good levels of micronutrient density. These lines have been distributed to other WECABREN countries for further evaluation and selection. In WECABREN, sixty-eight lines of diverse growth habits, and tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses were introduced in Togo. These lines were evaluated in northern drought prone regions near Kara in the northern part. This region also suffers heat stress. Fifteen bush (VTTT921, G22501, ECAB0240, K26/35CFM, ECAB0401, K1 10A1F121, ZEBRA, PVO14/2, PVO14, ECAB0426, ECAB0416, NR12632-9, ECAB0702, KK15), four semi-climber (KJ4-3, MAC54, MAC55, SEPE) and 14 climbers (BF, MERINGUE, ZAA5/2, BF5, ECAB0056, KNX87, KNX89, KNX26/LM -7, MANSEKI, TY3396-12, ECAB0421, GLP2, SEQ11007 and LUNDAMBA) were selected. The genotypes showed good seed fill despite drought and heat stress. It is interesting to note that some genotypes with bush growth habit in eastern Africa (such as TY3396-12, Mex 142 and GLP 2), show indeterminate growth habit in warmer and wetter regions of West and Central Africa. The selected lines will be evaluated in other potential bean production regions of Togo. In Cameroon, several lines with good adaptation to low soil fertility have been identified following evaluation of BILFA lines at several test sites. Outstanding lines include TY 3396-12, HM 21-6, ECAPAN 024, ECAPAN 004, ECAPAN 015, ECAPAN 019, ECAPAN 009, ECAPAN 018, ECAPAN 017, ECAPAN 002, ECAPAN 021, HM21-7, FEB 192 and RWR 1873. ECAPAN (East and Central adaptation to low soil P, Acidity and Nitrogen) were derived from crosses between first generation BILFA (I &II) lines and susceptible commercial varieties. Some of the low soil fertility lines have also shown good levels of micronutrient density. These lines have been distributed to other WECABREN countries for further evaluation and selection. 15  1.2.2.20. Increase seed of promising lines to facilitate further on-farm and on-station evaluations – linked with REU Additional support for SABRN countries (Zambia, and South DR Congo) not covered under BMGF; and WECABREN Scaling up In ECABREN, all National Bean Programs increased seed of advanced lines during the 2010 long rains (and in some countries also during the short rainy season) to facilitate broader evaluation on-station and on-farm in 2011. In SABRN, all countries were supported to produce seed of promising lines which were targeted to go into further evaluation on-farm with partners. These on-farm trials are now in the field, as the crop season starts from December through April. 1.2.2.21. Take stock of available germplasm with multiple resistances to stresses (biotic and abiotic including BILFA) and distribute nurseries of elite lines for regional evaluation: Additional support for SABRN (Malawi and South Africa) Scaling up Seed of 32 BILFA lines was increased at Mulungu, DR Congo and at Kabete, Kenya and are available on request. In South Africa, seed of the differential sets (rust, ALS and halo blight) and various sources of resistance is available on request to interested pathologists / breeders for sample collection and local identification of resistance, genes as well as for breeding purposes. In SABRN region, several countries (Angola, Congo, Malawi, Mozambique Tanzania and Zambia) received bean germplasm with multiple stress resistance, which were included in a nursery called New BILFA. In Zimbabwe out of 200 bean lines which were evaluated on-farm under moisture stress conditions, only 30 lines were selected by farmers, based on drought tolerance, resistance to some diseases, and tolerance to low soil fertility conditions. Some of the lines had good grain yield (1644 kg ha-1). The lines with multiple resistances to biotic and abiotic stresses will be bulked up for further trials and distribution in the region. In WECABREN, the activity was planned to be conducted in Cameroon, Guinea Conakry, Senegal, Sierra Leone and Togo. In Cameroon the stock was taken of available germplasm with multiple resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. Distribution was done to Congo Brazzaville (1 batch), Guinea Conakry (2 batches), Ghana (1 batch), Mali (1batch), CAR (1 batch), Senegal (3 batches). It will start in the other countries in the 1st cropping season 2011 1.2.2.22. Maintain disease nurseries, differential lines for ALS, anthracnose, BCMV and rust and elite material developed in the region. Incorporate new lines and constitute revised disease nurseries and initiate regional evaluations at key hotspots for specific constraints. New Activity Seed of differentials for angular leaf spot, anthracnose and rust were increased at Namulonge, Melkassa and Kabete. The differentials are being used for disease phenotyping. Similarly these differential varieties have also been increased at Kawanda where they are maintained routinely. Elite materials from the Kawanda breeding program have also been increased and maintained and have also been made available to NARS partners for further testing. Thirty five canning bean lines selected for drought tolerance in Ethiopia have been screened for resistance to Pythium root rot and Fusarium root rot and seed is being increased for interested NARS. Seeds of lines combining drought tolerance, resistance to bruchids and canning quality were received at Kabete from Kawanda in July 2010. They were planted at Kabete for preliminary evaluation during the short rain season (Nov-Dec 2010) In WECABREN, this activity was to be conducted in Cameroon and Togo. In Cameroon, resistant varieties to different diseases were identified. Nurseries for these varieties plus those from other WECABREN countries will be put in place in March/April 2011. In addition, efforts have been made to live maintain and multiply elite varieties for distribution to other ECABREN countries. The activity will start in CAR and Togo in the first semester of 2011. 1.2.2.23. Conserve inoculums of isolates representing races of major diseases including rust, anthracnose and angular leaf spot in two laboratories in eastern Africa (Uganda and Kenya) - linked with race characterization New activity Four isolates of Fusarium solani fsp phaseoli that causes Fusarium root rot, two isolates (Meso and Andean) of Phaeoisariopsis griseoli that causes Angular leaf spot are in store at Kawanda. Collection, characterization and maintenance of pathogen isolates of the major diseases occurring in Uganda was initiated by the bean program in Uganda. It will be continued to cover new regions in collaboration with CIAT /PABRA team in Uganda during 2011. Isolation for angular leaf spot, anthracnose and root rot pathogens was conducted at Pathology laboratory at Kabete. Inoculum of the isolates was increased and used for preliminary disease phenotyping of differentials and several sources of resistance used in population development. The isolates are being conserved at Kabete. The isolates will be used for race typing and conserved. 1.2.2.24.Regenerate and maintain existing BILFA selections and constitute new BILFA nurseries (6 and 7) Additional support for SABRN countries (Zambia and South DR Congo) not covered under BMGF Scaling up Seed of more than 100 lines with known tolerance to edaphic stresses (including low soil P, low N [involving enhanced nitrogen fixation], Al and Mn toxicity) were increased at Kabete and Thika trial sites during the long rain season. The lines have been used to constitute BILFA VI nursery. In SABRN, more than 100 bean lines originating from drought nurseries, but also selected under low soil fertility (N, and P) are currently 16  under multiplication in Malawi, and these will be included in future BILFA nurseries. 1.2.2.25. Distribute and maintain elite drought resistant lines from the PABRA drought nursery. 1.2.2.15 NARS to share elite lines from their programs, e.g., root rots, ALS etc. Additional support for ECABREN countries Scaling up Twenty advanced breeding lines with promising resistance from South Africa were received by the SABRN Coordinator (Dr. Rowland Chirwa) for distribution in Africa, and 102 were provided to Kenya (Prof. Paul Kimani). Additional lines for possible distribution in Africa will be harvested in October. Less advanced generations will be evaluated again at Cedara as funding and manpower permit. In ECABREN, seed of elite lines was received at Kabete from Madagascar and DR Congo. Seed of these lines together with other elite lines maintained by the regional program will be increased to facilitate distribution and utilization by partners in PABRA countries. 1.2.2.26. Constitute pests resistance nurseries (bruchids from Malawi and Ethiopia) and BSM) – AGRA Twenty-five nationally released common bean varieties were evaluated in a 5 X 5 triple lattice in Ethiopia to identify lines for potential inclusion in a BSM nursery. Results from two locations showed that BSM infestation was low at Arsi Negele and Kobo and the varieties could not be differentiated based on their reaction response to BSM. The trial will be repeated in 2011. In SABRN region, part of this activity was covered under the distribution of a BSM nursery to countries that requested under activity 1.2.1.8 above. The national breeding program in Malawi has made considerable progress in developing bean germplasm for resistance to bruchid infestation. They have a nursery of approximately 100 lines which were selected from 800 segregating populations. Out of these 100 lines 10 have gone through advanced yield trials, and are currently being evaluated on-farm, to capture farmers’ preferences. Based on the yield trials on-station, 3 of these lines have been targeted for registration for variety release. Seed for these bruchid resistance lines can be shared with other interested partners in the region on request from the national bean program in Malawi. 1.2.2.27. Evaluate inter-specific lines developed from P. coccineus (developed in Cali) for multiple resistance to key bean diseases in Africa Over 180 inter-specific lines received from Cali-Colombia have been screened for resistance to Pythium and Fusarium root rot, and angular leaf spot. Over 70% of these lines have good levels of resistance to these diseases. Seed is being increased and has been included in the nurseries for regional distribution. 1.2.2.28. Assess linkages into Fusarium and Pythium root rot resistance in common bean genotypes - PhD Student – AGRA Duplication of activity 1.2.2.3) 1.2.2.29. Train partners from WECABREN (3 countries) in pathology and other bean research methods The training of WECABREN partners (six researchers from six WECABREN countries) on bean IPDM and Research Methods took place from the 7th of November to the 5th of December 2010. Some of the course participants stayed on and participated in the IPDM/ISFWM Working Group Review and Planning Meeting. 1.2.2.30. Train partners from ECABREN breeders in IPHIS and other bean research methods Thirteen national program breeders from six countries were trained in the use of IPHIS in a workshop held at the Kenya Institute of Education in June 2010. The participants were from DR Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Tanzania and Zimbabwe. Participants were provided with the IPHIS software. 1.2.2.31. Regional backup services support to Outcome 1(ECABREN BREEDER 40% time and travel) ECABREN breeder continued to provide support to several partners and conduct strategic research with partners. He developed and distributed more than 60 populations of snap bean segregating for combined resistance to rust, angular leaf spot and anthracnose. These populations and advanced lines were distributed to Burundi, Uganda, Madagascar, Sudan, Kenya, Cameroon, Togo and Sierra Leone. The ECABREN breeder also supported partner countries (Ethiopia, Kenya and Tanzania) developing lines with drought tolerance under the Tropical Legumes II program. He also played a key role is strengthening links with private seed producers (such as Kenya Seed Company) and processors ( such as TruFoods Ltd, which will contribute to enhanced distribution of seed of improved varieties through their regional outlets, and value addition and creating markets for smallholder farmers. The breeder also represented PABRA in several meetings including ASARECA climate change meet in Addis Ababa, Tropical Legumes II planning meet in Lukenya, Kenya (May 2010), Marker assisted breeding training and review meet in Morogoro, Tanzania (May 2010) and TL I planning meet in Madrid (August 2010). Regional breeder also coordinated ECABREN activities including the Steering Committee and Gender training meetings in Arusha, Tanzania until 30 June 2010. He also made backstopping visits to Central African Republic and Cameroon (July 2010), Togo, Ghana, Congo-Brazzaville, Rwanda, Tanzania and Kenya. Regional breeder also contributed to several PABRA partners planning meetings and training sessions. The breeder convened the Pan African training on IPHIS (International Phaseolus Information Systems) held in Nairobi in June 2010. Scientists and technicians from nine PABRA countries participated. He also continued to supervise four PhD, six M.Sc 17  students, and two undergraduate students drawn from various PABRA countries and working on bean research related to PABRA framework. He also continued to host, train and mentor young breeders from several countries in ECABREN and South Africa (ACCI). Regional breeder also supported partners to develop and submit proposal for competitive grant systems. For example, full proposal recommended for funding by Bioinnovate will complement research activities in 9 institutions from five ECABREN countries. A successful proposal on TL I (Phase II) will provide support for PABRA partners from four countries to participate in cutting-edge research with Generation Challenge Program and for graduate research. ECABREN breeder also supported several partners develop journal publications, three of which have been published in refereed journals. Regional breeder also continued to send a broad range germplasm to partners in PABRA networks including scientists, seed producers and farmer groups. 1.2.2.32. Regional Network Coordinators' support to outcome 1 (10% Staff time ECABREN, 10% staff time SABRN) The ECABREN and SABRN Network Coordinators continued to support and offer back support to NARS and their partners on all aspects of bean genetic improvement (Outcome 1) in ECABREN and SABRN regions. In collaboration with the Resource Person, they also offered technical backstopping to WECABREN 1.2.2.33. Back-up research support on bean diseases to Outcome 1 - Plant Pathologist(18% time) The PABRA pathologist continued to support breeding activities, including MAS of multiple disease resistance, distribution of differentials and disease nurseries, He also visited NARS to backstop network partners in ECABREN and SABRN. He facilitated the training of partners in phenotyping (artificial inoculation and screening) and genotyping (MAS) of resistance. He represented PABRA in a number of fora. 1.2.2.34. PDF Networks Breeder support - ECABREN, SABRN & WECABREN 30% The PDF Network Breeder offered breeding and pathology support to on-going activities at Kawanda. She supported the design and implementation of a multiple pest/disease resistance breeding strategy at Kawanda. She offered support in selecting for resistance against key pathogens (Pythium root rot, Fusarium root rot, angular leaf spot, anthracnose, and BCMV and BCMNV) in germplasm and segregation populations. She offered support in the characterization of anthracnose and angular leaf spot pathogens in Uganda. She participated in a RUFORUM workshop in Uganda in which funding of graduate research (including research on bean R4D) was discussed. The PDF breeder/pathologist in collaboration with Makerere University offered supervision to three graduate students. She also participated in several PABRA workshops and represented PABRA in several meetings including Marker assisted breeding training and review meet in Morogoro, Tanzania (May 2010) and Climate Change Strategy Meeting in Arusha, Tanzania (March, 2010) and also participated in the training of the Kirkhouse Trust beneficiaries from Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania. Recently, she has been heavily involved in the 2011 planning of Harvest Plus activities (linked to PABRA) and is working with the ECABREN Coordinator to establish the ECABREN Regional Nursery at Kawanda (expected to begin in 2011) 1.2.2.35. Regional Resource Person support to Outcome 1. The resource person under this outcome for WECABREN continued to support the network by distribution of germplasm and nurseries and made technical visits in collaboration with the ECABREN breeder and other PABRA staff Outcome# 2: Farmers access, adapt and use, cost effective, integrated environmental stress management options to better manage soil fertility/moisture and crop pests/diseases and increase their capacity to respond to stress Output 2.1: New and existing options and strategies for managing different stress environments are available to farmers through partners using participatory approaches. P.I.#2.1: At least 10 new and 40 existing integrated pest, disease and soil management options (with at least 2 per country) are evaluated for farmer acceptability and their effectiveness (including technical efficacy) and performance (technical-pest and disease management, improving soil fertility, adaptation to stress, and economic-profitability) is analyzed and documented in at least 5 publications (scientific articles, manual and occasional publication) by 2011 Activity set # 2.1.1 : Develop/identify strategies that address problems associated with intensification in bean cropping systems to generate and promote technologies associated with stresses under crop intensification 2.1.1.1 Develop new environmentally friendly IPDM packages related to 18  intensification of bean cropping systems 2.1.1.1.1. Develop and validate with farmers new innovative and cost effective / environmentally friendly IPDM options technologies Additional support for SABRN countries (Swaziland, Zambia, South DR Congo and Zimbabwe) not covered under MCK, ECABREN (Madagascar, Kenya, Tanzania, DR Congo) and WECABREN (Cameroon and Togo). Scaling up A number of ECABREN countries tested different IPDM technologies on-station and on farm. The technologies tested included evaluation of staking techniques (strings compared to stakes) for climbing beans in Burundi, Rwanda and Uganda. In DRC-E, the effect of botanicals pesticides was evaluated and 2 bio-pesticides were found to be effective in reducing the survival of the insect pests Cymbopogon Citratus and Cedrella sp., as well as in protecting grains against attack by the insects. In Ethiopia, integrated management of bean stem maggot in common bean was studied using resistant varieties, seed treatment and high population density in three farmers’ fields. BSM infestation was very low due to higher rainfall during the cropping season and relatively higher number of BSM appeared only on one of the three fields at Shalla. In this field all the treatments were found superior to the control. Chemical treated plot was the best performing management option and higher percent of damage was observed in the control plot. In Northern Tanzania, eight plant extract (IPDM) combinations were evaluated on snap beans: Two combinations i) Mixture of selecron and tephrosia leaf extract and ii) selecron mixed with garlic extract controlled the bean striped weevil but the highest yields were obtained under Selecron and Tephrosia leaf extract treatments. In Uganda, promising neem products and other bio-pesticides for the control of pests and diseases were evaluated on farm and on station and recorded yield increase ranged from 25 – 50% above the control depending on season. In addition, reduced spray schedules and action thresholds for control of pests and disease on snap bean are being investigated. In Burundi, demonstration plots for the use of Tithonia as a green manure were laid out and participants included extension agents, farmers, researchers, school children and their teachers. Burundi also tested two staking techniques (Strings compared to wooden stakes) for climbing beans and it was observed that there were no significant yield differences between the two staking techniques In Zambia, crop rotation (cereal – legume) is one of the options all small scale farmers have adopted in bean production. This is used to reduce the buildup of diseases and pests. The use of seed dressing chemicals is another technology used by all groups that are involved in seed production (apart from KATC - who practice organic farming). These groups include SSGA, Farmer’s Link, Kamano Seed Company, FWHC, PLARD, WVI, etc. Farmers under WVI – Kawambwa ADP in Luapula Province reported mixing their beans with figure millet to protect it from storage pests. Use of Tephrosia was also reported by WVI- Mbala ADP in Northern Province. FWHC has sensitized its farmers on the importance of using quality seed from known source. They have emphasized this as it helps to trace the source of seed in case of problems in the field. In WECABREN, the implementation of the activity is underway in Cameroon, Senegal and Togo 2.1.1.1.2. Take stock of developed and successful IPDM technologies and test to ascertain their economic and environmental benefits. Additional support for SABRN countries (Swaziland, Zambia, South DR Congo and Angola) not covered under MCK and BMGF – and for developing a catalogue of existing IPDM technologies.(centrally done) Scaling up In SABRN countries: Swaziland, Zambia, and south D R Congo, have received support from SABRN to evaluate the IPDM technologies for economic viability and the activities are under way, as the crop season runs from December to April. In WECABREN (Cameroon, Guinea and Togo), stock has been taken of developed and successful IPDM technologies. Their testing will be done in the 2nd season of 2011 to ascertain their economic and environmental benefits. In ECABREN, the methodology to be used in this study has been developed and discussed with partners in Uganda and Tanzania. During the 2011 season A, data will be collected on the input-use pattern, costs and returns from the on farm trials as well as with a survey method using a specially designed template. Information on the likely constraints to adoption of the technologies will also be collected from the survey. The data will be gender disaggregated to allow gender specific analysis. A gender analysis will also be conducted using focus group discussion method to complement the survey methods particularly to bring out the socio-cultural issues, labour concerns and resource constraints that are grounded in gender inequalities 2.1.1.1.3. Identify the active ingredient (a.i) of bio-pesticides / botanicals (Tephrosia etc) and their potential for commercialization in SABRN (Malawi and S/Tanzania) In SABRN, the first half of the year the project on botanical pesticides for bean pests which is supported by the McKnight Foundation had targeted its efforts at identifying the active compounds in pesticidal plant materials (Tephrosia vogelli and Tephrosia candida). The laboratory activities have shown that the active ingredients Tephrosin, deguelin and rotenone and are found more in T. vogeli than in T. candida, and that dequelin and rotenone are effective against storage pests like bruchids. The next steps are looking at confirming these pesticidal properties in field trials. 19  2.1.1.1.4. Evaluate new potential botanical options against disease and insect pests New activity This activity was initiated at Kawanda. One botanical (commonly available) extract was shown to be very effective against angular leaf sport and aphids. Confirmation results are being made. Work is ongoing to determine its effect against Pythium root rots. In SABRN this activity is linked to the activity 2.1.1.1.3 above, and the trials are in the field. 2.1.1.1.5 Study on seasonal population dynamics of white flies, and develop control strategies in bean in Northern Tanzania Five insecticides (Attakan 350 SC – imidacloprid 350g/l, Fastan – Alphacypermethrin 100g/l EC, Decis – Deltamethrin 2.5 EC, Vapcomic – Abamectin 1.8 EC and Mitan 20 – Amitrazi 200g/l) and a control were evaluated for the control of whiteflies on beans. The insecticides differed significantly (p≤ 0.05) for most parameters observed except for 100 seed wt and seed yield in kg/ha. The study further indicated that, irrespective of treatments applications, whiteflies populations increased early in the season and diminished as the season progressed. Attakan (imidacloprid 350g/l) was the most effective for the control of whiteflies, with counts between 21.0 – 119.3 insects/100 cm2. The unsprayed plots had insect counts 88.3 – 145.8 insects/100 cm2. Other insecticides (Fastan, Decis, Vapcomic and Mitac 20) had poor performance for whiteflies control since insect counts were not significantly different (p≤ 0.05) as compared with the control (untreated plots). However, for the control of red spider mites (Tetranychus spp); vapcomic had lowest damage (score 2.7) as compared with 3.2 and 5.0 for the control and Attakan, respectively. Highest yield (1971 kg/ha) was obtain in plots treated with Fastan and lowest with control (1538 kg/ha), even though the differences were not statistically significant. Generally, most insecticides were unable to control whiteflies effectively except Attakan 350 SC –Imidacloprid 350g/l. It may be necessary to incorporate various IPM components in an integrated strategy to control whiteflies. This could involve the use of insecticides applied at different stages of insect development and timely planting in respect to rainfall when whiteflies populations are low. 2.1.1.2 Develop new environmentally friendly ISFWM technologies associated with intensification of bean cropping systems 2.1.1.2 .1. Develop and validate with farmers new innovative and cost effective / environmentally friendly ISFWM technologies. Additional support Scaling up Participatory evaluations of Tithonia and manure amendments in bean pure stands and mixed stands were evaluated in DRC-E. Tithiona application in pure stand was appreciated by 89% of men and 56% of women, and in mixed cropping (bean-corn-cassava) by78% men and 52% women, Crop residue effects on phosphorus use efficiency were also evaluated and better yields were obtained with maize residue and 50 kg/ha P205. In trials to determine the optimum N and P rates for common bean production in the central rift valley (Ethiopia), the highest yield (3454.9 kg ha-1) was recorded when zero urea was combined with 100 kg DAP ha-1. This rate is a blanket recommendation for bean production all over the country. The trial will be repeated on selected farmers’ fields during the main season of 2011. In Uganda, combinations of organic and inorganic fertilizers are being tested on-farm on snap beans. Four on-farm demonstrations were established in four divisions of Central Kenya; Nyeri (Municipality division), Kirinyaga (Nduini division), Gatundu South (Ng’enda and Ndarugu divisions) to promote the use of Rhizobium inoculum (CIAT 899), use of P-fertilizer (TSP (46% P2O5) at 200kg/ha and use of improved varieties which included; ten bush varieties and three climbers. The demonstrations were collaboratively implemented by different partner institutions namely; the University of Nairobi, KARI-Thika, Agricultural extension officers and several farmer groups (Muruguru Green Network and Fish farming, Koroma Fresh Growers, Njokerio Gathundo self Help Group, and Ichaweri- Mutomo) with each institution playing a specific role. In Burundi, an evaluation of ISFM options showed that use of farmyard manure (10t/ha) plus DAP 100 kg/ha gave higher yield 1,150 kg/ha) compared to the use of FYM (10t/ha) alone which gave only 675 kg. The use of tithonia + DAP also gave higher yield compared to tithonia alone. Training was conducted for 53 farmers from Kayokwe, Bisoro and Gisozi in Mwaro provinces, 5 extensionists and 3 research technicians. Modules taught were: ISFM, IPDM, seed production and preservation and different types of staking materials with special reference to the use of strings. Studies were conducted in Sudan to calculate the reference and actual crop evapotranspiration, derive the crop coefficient (Kc), and collect data for the CROPWAT irrigation management model, which is to be used to estimate the irrigation water requirements and irrigation scheduling of common bean. The initial, mid and late season kc values were 0.2, 1.14 and 0.3, respectively. In Sudan, addition of 43 and 86 kg N/ha increased bean grain yield over that with no nitrogen by 93% and 169%, respectively. Common bean genotypes namely ABA61, Giza 3 and Basabeer gave the highest yield under the three levels of nitrogen fertilizer evaluated. Tithiona application in pure stand was appreciated by 89% of men and 56% of women and 78% mean and 52% 20  women in bean association (bean-corn-cassava), Crop residue effects on P use efficiency were also evaluated and it was observed that better yields obtained with maize residue and 50 kg/ha P205. The effect of N,P and K application on micronutrient density of two bean varieties AND 620 and HM 21-7 at rates of 0, 25, 50kg/ha is being evaluated. In Northern Tanzania, effects of organic & inorganic fertilizers on bush bean varieties was evaluated; Improved varieties (Lyamungu 90) and 13 fertilizers combinations: Three combinations FYM + MRP (5t +30kgP2O5), FYM +TSP(5 t + 30kgP2O5), FYM + DAP (5 t + 30kgP2O5) were selected by farmers. In addition, 12 ISFWM Treatments compositions were evaluated on snap bean and three were selected by farmers; FYM + MRP (5t +25kgPHa), FYM +TSP (5t +25kgPHa), FYM + DAP(5t +25kgPHa) . In Uganda, combinations of organic and inorganic fertilizers are being tested on- farm on snap beans. Four on-farm demonstrations were established in four divisions of three districts in Central Kenya; Nyeri (Municipality division), Kirinyaga (Nduini division), Gatundu South (Ng’enda and Ndarugu divisions) to promote the use of Rhizobium inoculum (CIAT 899), use of P-fertilizer (TSP (46% P2O5) at 200kg/ha and use of improved varieties which included; ten bush varieties which were (Miezi Mbili, Kenya Early, Kenya Sugar, Kenya Sugar bean ( KSB), New Rosecoco, Kenya Red Kidney, Super Rosecoco, Kabete Super, Kenya Wonder and Kenya Umoja) and three climbing bean varieties (Kenya Safi (MAC 13), Kenya Tamu (MAC 34) and Kenya Mavuno (MAC 64). The demonstrations were collaboratively implemented by different partner institutions namely; the University of Nairobi, KARI-Thika, Agricultural extension officers and farmers f=groups (Muruguru Green Network and Fish farming, Koroma Fresh Growers, Njokerio Gathundo self Help Group, and Ichaweri-Mutomo) with each Institution playing a specific role. Total membership in the four farmer-groups was 192 farmers of whom 64% were women. In Zimbabwe, two methods of fertilizer application were evaluated on three dry bean varieties to determine the effects of fertilizer application methods on grain yield response on-station and on-farm during the 2009-2010 crop season. The results showed that higher yields were obtained from band application, and it is recommended that farmers use the band application method. In addition, there was the evaluation of maize-dry bean intercropping system, where on-station field trials were conducted at Kadoma Cotton Research Institute in the 2009-2010 season to determine the productivity of maize-dry bean intercrops. All intercrop combinations had LERs of less than 1, showing there was no yield advantage under the intercropping system. In Zambia, most bean production in Zambia is mainly in the high rainfall regions (Region III). Farmers in this region all plant on ridges which may vary in size and spacing. All farmers indicate the practice as control for good drainage. During the season under review all the partners reported crop Rotation as an option used by all small scale farmers to reduce on fertility depletion. Use of agroforestry species for soil fertility was reported by World Vision International and PLAN International. Training and use of composite manure was reported by FWHC and IDE World Vision Mbala ADP reported use of inorganic fertilizer with their farmers. This use could still be below recommended rates as many small scale farmers do not apply full dose of fertilizer in bean crop. WVI Mbala ADP reported intercropping as an option to reduce weeds and maximize land use with some of their farmers. 2.1.1.2 .2. Take stock of developed and successful ISFWM technologies and test to ascertain their economic and environmental benefits. Additional support for number of countries and level of activities Scaling up In ECABREN, the methodology to be used in this study has been developed and discussed with partners in Rwanda, DRC, Uganda and Tanzania. During the 2011 season A, data will be collected on the input-use pattern, costs and returns from the on farm trials as well as with a survey method using a specially designed template. Information on the likely constraints to adoption of the technologies will also be collected from the survey. The data will be gender disaggregated to allow gender specific analysis. A gender analysis will also be conducted using focus group discussion method to complement the survey methods particularly to bring out the socio-cultural issues, labour concerns and resource constraints that are grounded in gender inequalities. In WECABREN, this activity was planned for Cameron, Senegal and Sierra Leone and is underway 2.1.1.2 .3. Determine the effect of moisture deficits on N fixation in common bean Contribution under N2Fix 21  2.1.1.2 .4.Develop and evaluate with farmers innovative staking options for climbing beans Additional support for number of countries and level of activities Scaling up Climbing beans play an important role in land constrained countries such as Rwanda and Burundi due to their higher productivity compared to the bush types. However, staking needs have been major limiting factor in the wider spread of the climbing bean technologies To address this challenge, ISAR initiated research to generate cost-effective means of staking climbing beans by combining the traditional wood stakes with trellises. Preliminary results showed that through the combination, farmers can reduce the staking wood density by about 70% with no significant differences in grain yields. Further farmer participative confirmation evaluations were being made to assess potential for their use or necessary adaptations. Similar studies in Burundi also corroborated the findings of these innovative staking options In Siha district – Tanzania, Cheupe bean variety planted at a higher density (25cm X 50cm) with application of MRP (60 kg P/Ha) and staked every after two hills gave significantly higher yield than Selian 05 planted at low density (20cm x 75cm) without application of fertilizer using poles and rope /strings as staking materials. Selian 06 planted at a spacing of 20cm x 75 cm was most severely infested by Bean Common Mosaic Virus compared to the rest of climbing bean varieties tested. In SABRN, this activity will be conducted in 2011. 2.1.1.2.5. Identify for dissemination suitable soil and water management practices under the rice-bean based farming system (Madagascar, Malawi, Tanzania) Additional support to increase level of activity Scaling up A rice-based double cropping system involving the use of improved rice and bean, chickpea and lablab varieties was validated and demonstrated at Mawemairo village - Babati district, Tanzania 2.1.1.2.6. Evaluate using participatory approaches fertility improvement options (inorganic and organic amendments - including farm yard manures, compost, etc) on snap and dry bean productive under different cropping systems, agro-ecology and soil types A study on fertilizer types and rates was conducted using snap bean (Var. Samantha) in three selected sites at SARI and Madiira farm at Tengeru in Arumeru District and at Koboko village in Siha District to assess the effect of organic and inorganic fertilizers on yields of snap bean. Treatments consisted of both sole and mixed sources of fertilizer combinations: sole farm yard manure - FYM (10t/ha) and FYM (5t/ha), fortified Minjingu Rock Phosphate - MRP (60kgP/ha), Triple super-phosphate –TSP (60kgP/ha), Di-ammonium phosphate - DAP (60kgP/ha), FYM + MRP, FYM + TSP, FYM + DAP, Sole BIOFIX –(Rhizobium inoculants), MRP + BIOFIX, TSP + BIOFIX, DAP + BIOFIX and a Check plot. The results revealed that the use of FYM + fortified MRP at a rate of 5t + 25 kg P/ha resulted in a significant increase in yields and number of pods per plant when compared to other treatments. This was followed by the application of FYM + DAP and FYM +TSP at 5t + 25 kg P/ha respectively. The control plot had the least yields. A single dose of 60 kg P/ ha, in the form DAP or fortified MRP at a planting stage gave yields of more than 10t. The effect of BIOFIX needs to be further investigated at different localities as some soils had limiting factors such as high pH values. The application of FYM + MRP, FYM + DAP, FYM +TSP at 5t + 25 kg P/ha or a single dose of 60 kg P/ ha in the form DAP or fortified MRP at planting is recommended to be used under conditions of the northern zone of Tanzania. 2.1.1.2.7. Identify compatible varieties for bean-cereal intercrop systems and other spatial arrangements Additional support to increase number of countries and level of activities Scaling up In Ethiopia, an intercropping experiment was conducted at five locations (Bofa, Bulbula, Shala, Hawassa and Bako) to evaluate different combinations of five bean varieties and one maize variety. The results indicated that the highest bean yields under inter-cropping were produced by Awash 1 (at Shalla) and Nasir (at Bofa) with yields of 1333 and 785 kg/ha, respectively. LER greater than 1.0 were found for most of the treatments. This activity will be repeated during the main season of 2011. 2.1.1.2.8 Determine the major causative and remedial measures of bean yellowing syndrome in Simanjiro District - Northern Zone, TZ. Support for additional evaluations Scaling up Bean yellowing syndrome causes significant yield losses in beans in Tanzania but its etiology remained unknown. The problem appears to be limited to the northern zone of the country as it has not been reported from southern Tanzania. The yellowing was thought to be caused by a virus but extensive analyses of plant and soil samples revealed that bean yellowing syndrome is caused by iron and manganese toxicity. The development of remedial measures for the yellowing syndrome is a high priority activity to be conducted in northern Tanzania (involving host tolerance and integrated soil management approaches), and the ECABREN Steering Committee has approved funds for implementation of the activity. 2.1.1.2.9 Identify and collate IPDM and IFSM options for potential scaling up and develop strategies with partners through participatory research processes and gender considerations In both ECABREN and SABRN, simple and environmentally friendly IPDM and ISFM options were identified for potential scaling up were collated and now form the basis of new, participatory R4D activities which fully take gender perspectives into consideration. For instance, in Kenya Rhizobium inoculation of seed, phosphorus fertilizer and improved bush/climbing varieties were identified for scaling 22  Additional support to increase number of countries and level of activities Scaling up up and several field demonstrations (that targeted both male and female famers) were conducted in different districts during the year.. 2.1.1.2.10. ISFM and IPDM Working Groups review meeting (centrally) New activity The Working Groups review meetings took place from 5th to 9th December 2010 in Kampala, Uganda. Progress in participatory IPDM and ISFM technology development and in delivery of such technologies were discussed, and priority areas for R&D were identified which have been incorporated into the Network workplans for 2011/2012 Output 2.2: Tools to help practitioners and policy makers diagnose and understand the effects of specific acute stress constraints in a more targeted manner developed and utilized P.I.#2.2 : At least 2 decision support tools are availed to at least 3 research, development or relief organizations and in each target country are using them to address specific stress constraints to gear emergency response action by 2011 Activity sets# 2.2.1: Develop or adapt and make available tools in collaboration with partners for the assessment of acute environmental stress, promote and monitor options for sustaining system resilience in areas experiencing acute stress and formulate strategies for policy dialogue in response to these stresses 2.2.1.1 Carry out Seed System Security Assessment (SSSA) in two key high stress regions of PABRA member countries; Burundi, Kenya, Malawi, Sudan and Zambia Seed system security assessment (SSSA) was carried out in Zimbabwe in July/August 2010 (with CRS taking the lead). Scoping mission in South Sudan took place in April 2010, background papers commissioned in September and fieldwork launched in November. 2.2.1.2 Develop and share a policy brief from the review of the existing literature and research related to farmers’ coping strategies in the face of drought and climate change in several key PABRA member countries so as to identify better support practice. A PABRA climate change strategy has been developed, which articulates the current and future role of PABRA and its partners in enhancing the resilience of farmers and rural communities in the face of drought and climate variability. 2.2.1.3 Regional backup support to Outcome 2(ECABREN BREEDER 10% time and travel) The ECABREN regional breeder continued to support and offer back support to NARS and their partners on all aspects of germplasm improvement related to IPDM and ISFWM in the ECABREN region 2.2.1.4 Regional Network Coordinators' support to outcome 2 (30% Staff time ECABREN, 30% staff time SABRN) The ECABREN Coordinator, who is also a crop protection specialist, assumed leadership of this Outcome in August, one month after joining PABRA in July 2010. He has played an active role in streamlining the activities of the Outcome for improved delivery/impact of IPDM/ISFWM technologies. He worked with gender specialists to “genderize” all Outcome 2 activities in the SABRN workplan during the SABRN steering committee, and was part of efforts to develop a revised logic model and performance measurement framework for Outcome 2 during a recent workshop on results-based management of PABRA. He has also been involved in the preparation of grant proposals that include aspects of IPDM and ISFWM. 2.2.1.5 Back-up research on epidemiology and support on IPDM [15% of time and operations for PABRA pathologist] The PABRA pathologist continued to support IPDM training, germplasm evaluation biocontrol of soil borne pathogens and mycotoxin studies. He represented CIAT in the IPM System-wide initiatives and with the support of CIAT participated in a meeting to defined system -wide priorities and research areas. For beans postharvest losses and mycotoxins are considered important to focus on. He also visited NARS to backstop network partners in WECABREN, ECABREN and SABRN. 2.2.1.6. Regional Resource Persons support to IPDM and ISFWM Two Regional Resource Persons provided backstopping support to IPDM and ISFWM. Their contribution was evaluated during the IPDM/ISFWM Working Group review meeting that took place from 5- 9 December 2010 in Kampala Uganda. A strategies was developed on how to enhance the effectiveness of the resource persons, ,which involves engaging them for short periods linked with specific tasks rather than throughout the calendar year. The ISFM resource person developed a draft publication entitled “Integrated Soil Fertility Management in bean based cropping system: Approaches and Achievements in the Eastern, Central and Southern African Bean Research Network” The article which will be published as an Occasional Publication reviews ISFM efforts, outcomes, experiences and lessons learnt since 2003. 23  Outcome #3: Increased micronutrient-rich bean varieties and products in the diets of the vulnerable communities (children, women, and PLWHA) to improve their nutrition and health Output 3.1. Bean varieties with improved micronutrient concentration and superior agronomic traits developed and made available. P.I.#3.1: Ten new marketable bean varieties combining high grain Fe (>90 ppm) and zinc (>35 ppm) with resistance to two or more biotic and abiotic stresses and consumer preferences identified by 2011 Activity sets# 3.1.1: Identify elite parental sources for seed iron and zinc concentration and use in conventional and marker assisted breeding for high nutrition quality, market, high yield and stress tolerant varieties and assess mineral stability across agro-ecological zones 3.1.1.1. Continue to identify and validate parental lines for key traits (Fe/Zn, abiotic and biotic stress) and generate F1 and F2 populations Link to H+ Forty-six simple and complex crosses designed to combine micronutrient density with resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses were made in Kabete, Kenya. The F1’s were advanced to F2 generation. Seed of new parental lines was increased at Kabete. Crosses were also made at INERA-Mulungu. In Rwanda new crosses to combine resistance to angular leaf spot, anthracnose, bean common mosaic virus with high mineral density and marketable grain characteristics were made. About 108 backcrosses to F1 were developed. In South Africa, crosses were made between RSS breeding lines developed at ARC-GCI with resistance to one or more diseases (CBB+BCMV, ALS+BCMV, ALS+HBB+BCMV, Rust+ALS) and lines with high Fe and Zn content, as recommended by CIAT. In addition to AND 620 and NUA 45, the lines SEA 5, SEA 15 and SER 16 were also included as sources of Fe and Zn. Forty-six cross combinations were used which included halo blight resistant lines and a total of 686 F1 seed were generated. In Zimbabwe, crosses were carried out using a partial diallel design. The parental lines included landraces, high iron and zinc lines and drought tolerant lines. A total of 20 parents were used. 3.1.1.2. Increase seed of parental lines with high mineral concentration and distribute seed to facilitate development of new populations by programs not supported by H+ New activity In SABRN region, seed increase for NUV lines was done under irrigation during the June-September planting season, and the nurseries were constituted. All NARS partners who were interested in the NUV lines requested for the nurseries, which the SABRN breeding program has distributed for the December-April planting. 3.1.1.3. Advance existing populations from F1 to F6 and other crosses to the next generation through pedigree method and select recombinants for mineral density, agronomic traits and genotype x environment interactions DRC, KE, RW, Ug, Tzu, ECABREN; ZA, TZ-SABRN (include H+ Budget = 44,000 for RW & DRC) Most of the ECABREN countries are testing second generation micronutrient bean lines for adaptability and a number have developed crosses to transfer high iron content into the commercial varieties. G x E trials have been conducted in Rwanda, DRC (under the Harvest Plus Project) and Burundi of promising high Fe beans. On farm testing in Burundi has resulted in three NUA lines being selected by farmers; NUA 64, NUA 90, NUA. In addition a number of member countries have conducted local crosses to improve the Fe levels in the country commercial bean varieties. More than 250 lines from six populations (KAB 2, KAB5, KAB 6, KAB 10, KAB 11, KAB 12 and KAB 13) were advanced to F7 and F8 generations at Kabete, Kenya. The advanced lines were evaluated for adaptation, reaction to diseases and yield potential at Kabete, Thika, Mwea and Subukia. In Rwanda, 121 new lines were selected from F6 lines derived from three crosses (G14519 * SEL 1416), G 14519 * SEL 1457 and G 14519 * CAB 19). Several trials were set up in Rubona, Rwerere, Nyamagabe, Ruhengeri, and Muhanga to evaluate promising high Fe materials for adaptability and agronomic performance for the two seasons of 2010. In Rubona, trials include, a local collection of 33 bush and climbers, observation trial of a set of 391 lines of introductions from CIAT; VRA, VCM, VAB, VRM, MBC and some MAC lines, 135 high Fe/Zn F2 populations derived from local crosses, 34 high Fe biofortified varieties, which include, NUA’s and NUV’s from CIAT and KAB lines from Kabete, advanced yield trial of 66 biofortified F8 lines received from CIAT in 2008 as F6 lines, progenies of crosses of G14519 x SEL 1416, SEL 1457, and CAB 19, 12 MAC and MBC climbers introduced from CIAT. In Rwerere, trials include multiplication of a set of 71 lines - 65 climbers and 6 bush, 18 Selected/identified for AVT, 14 PYT Advanced Lines and multiplication trials Ngwinurare. In Nyamagambe; 39 high Fe biofortified varieties, which include, NUA’s and NUV’s from CIAT and KAB lines from Kabete, Kenya, In Muhanga, an observation trial for 39 new bush introductions from CIAT, 34 plus 15 checks & fast track Cycle C. and multiplication fields for Ngwinurare, Maharagi soja, PVA8 and ECAB0064. Ten pre-release varieties and a modified G x E biofort trial of 12 fast track biofort lines were set up in all the locations in the two seasons of 2010. The mineral content of 130 bean 24  lines from Rwanda and 27 lines from DRC was evaluated using ICP at the Waite Analytical Services (WAS) in Australia. A number of lines were found to have high iron levels and have been included in Regional Nutrition Nursery that is being compiled. Currently, this nursery includes 13 bush lines, 21 climbers and 14 local landraces from Rwanda and four lines from DRC containing 75-122ppm Fe content. Of these seven are already released varieties in Rwanda. This nursery will continually be updated with new superior materials. The infrastructure for XRF for mineral analysis is being installed at ISAR in Rwanda and training on the use of this equipment is planned. Once the XRF is implemented/running, plans are to pre-screen all African bean samples at ISAR, Rubona. Selected highs will be analyzed at WAS for reconfirmation using ICP. More than six high Fe lines are expected to be released in early 2012 (season 2011 B) in Rwanda and two in DRC. In DRC-E, Mulungu Station, promising NUA and NUV lines were evaluated at PYT and AYT with farmer participation. National yield trials are currently being evaluated at farm level. Promising lines (NUA 27, NUA77, NUA 64, NUA86, and NUA93), with yields greater than that of the local check HM21-7 (1200kg/ha) will be evaluated before being proposed for release. The NUA lines also show resistance to diseases: ALS, anthracnose, rust and Ascochyta leaf spot. Farmers mostly preferred NUA 64 (65% female and 47% male), NUA 90 ( 52% female, 47% male) and NUA 85( 57% female, 30% male) . Seed samples of these materials have been sent to Australia (WAS) for mineral content analysis. G x E analyses of 20 NUA lines and 17 NUV lines were conducted in Mulungu and M’vuasi. In Mulungu, the NUV lines had intermediate reaction to rust (score: 5) and were susceptible to black rot. In M’vuasi, diseases scored included ALS, RR, CBB and BCMV; however, all lines were tolerant to diseases. Promising lines include; NUA 85, NUA 86, NUA 87, NUA 90, NUA 91, NUA 92, NUA 97 and NUA 100 with yield of 1000 kg/ha. PYT of 19 MIB lines (introduced from Cali) was also evaluated in DRC-E. ALS was very severe but the promising lines included; MIB 749, MIB 751, MIB 752 , MIB 802, MIB 804, MIB 799, MIB 758, MIB 781, MIB 753, MIB 798, MIB 749, MIB 748, MIB 779, MIB 765, MIB 805, MIB 803 and MIB 799 with the yield ranging between 714 and 1571 kg/ha. These materials are tolerant to ALS, RR, CBB, and BCMV. In addition, PYT of 31 local materials collected from Nkundi in 2008 were evaluated. 14 materials were selected based on tolerance to diseases such as ALS, CBB, BCMV, RR and Rust and included: NK037/08, NK004/08, NK013/08, NK057/08, NK051/08, NK027/08, NK030/08, NK058/08, NK034/08, NK036/08, NK052/08, NK060/08, NK056/08, NK007/08 . The yields ranged between 704 and 1630 kg/ha. Compared to the control A445(968 kg/ha), the best were NK034/08(1630 kg/ha), NK060/08(1588 kg/ha) and NK056/08(1446 kg/ha). Seed samples of promising materials will be sent to WAS (Australia) for mineral analysis. In South Africa: Four hundred lines (F4:6), generated from crosses using CBB resistant material were planted in checkrow trials at Potchefstroom during the 2009/10 season. From these, seventeen lines were selected and multiplied at the Makhathini Research Station during the winter to be included in advanced yield trials during the coming season. Five hundred and eighty six lines with ALS and rust resistance were evaluated at Cedara during the 2009/10 season, from which 33 selections were made for further evaluation in advanced yield trials. These lines (F6:6) were multiplied at Makhathini Research Station during winter. In Zimbabwe: Segregating populations are now at F5. Selections were made this summer season based on disease resistance; iron and Zn analysis to follow next. In Malawi various nurseries are in the field where seed samples will be collected for Fe and Zn analyses. 3.1.1.4. Increase seed of F2 and other populations and distribute to new countries for selection (Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia and Burundi) plus SABRN countries (South Africa, Zambia and Malawi) with breeding programs New activity In SABRN region, seed for F2 and other populations were increased under irrigation and this was made available for distribution to countries in the SABRN region that have the capacity to evaluate segregating populations . 3.1.1.5 Introduce new generation micronutrient dense lines (NUA, NUV and KAB lines) from the regional breeding program, increase seed and evaluate for G X E interactions across locations for mineral density and agronomic traits Link to H+ Additional support for SABRN countries (Angola, Lesotho, Swaziland,, Zambia, Mauritius, and South DR Congo) not covered under MCK and More than 400 NUA, NUV and KAB lines were distributed to Rwanda, DR Congo. Uganda and Malawi. They were evaluated for reaction to diseases, pests and local adaptation at Mulungu, Mvuasi and Kipopo (DR Congo), Nyagatare (Rwanda), Kabete, Mwea, Laikipia and Thika (Kenya). Lines with good agronomic performance were selected. Fixed lines: In South Africa, 251 grain samples (126 from Cedara and 125 from Potchefstroom) consisting of 40 seeds (± 10 - 15g), RSS and Calima 25  BMGF Scaling up types, were selected from the trials at harvest for analyses at the ARC-Institute for Soil, Climate and Water (ARC-ISCW), Pretoria. From the 125 samples collected from the trial at Potchefstroom, 88 lines (70%) had high Fe and Zn content (> 90ppm and 35ppm respectively) and 11 of these lines were high yielding and will be included in advanced yield trials during the next season. Forty four of the 126 samples (35%) from the Cedara trial had high mineral content (Fe>90 and Zn > 35) and 15 of these were high yielding and were selected for advanced yield trials. The evaluation of bean lines with high Fe and Zn content continued in Malawi. More than 50 genotypes were evaluated, and 11 of them were selected for adaptation and yield performance (above 1000 kg ha -1). Among the lines were NUA 99, NUA 87, NUA 43, NUA 42, NUA 95, NUA 23 and NUA 94. These lines will be further evaluated for Fe and Zn content. A bean biofortification nursery was evaluated in Zambia. The lines had a grain yield range of 279 – 2529 kg ha-1, with a mean yield of 1246 kg ha-1. The best yielding lines were RED WOLAITA, MCM 2001, NUA 30, KABALE, AYENEW and SELIAN 98. High variability in seed size was observed with the smallest seed size of 12 g/100 seeds (Mexico 142) and the largest being that of NUA 4 with 46 g 100 seeds-1. Bean nurseries were planted in May 2010 at Reduit located at 305 masl. in the humid irrigated zone of Mauritius. For the biofortification lines, all exceeded the control which gave a yield of 2.7 t/ha, except for Mexico 142, RWR 10 and Gofta. The highest yielders were NUA4, Nain de Kyondo and Red Wolaita, with yields of more than 4 t/ha. In conclusion, many entries were found promising. Seed multiplication of the promising varieties is being carried out to obtain enough seeds to go into multilocational semi- commercial field trials, under bean grower’s conditions. This will enable the selection of one or more bean varieties to be released for commercial cultivation in Mauritius. The bean program in Lesotho evaluated several bean germplasm from SABRN to identify some with high yield potential, which were also high in Fe and Zn content. The results showed that NUA50 and NUA45 performed well. 3.1.1.6. Increase and distribute new generation micronutrient dense lines to countries in ECABREN and SABRN New activity In SABRN countries, nurseries of NUA lines developed for high micronutrient density were increased and distributed to countries that were ready to evaluate them. 3.1.1.7. Conduct national performance trials and DUS tests for candidate lines. Link to H+ support to DRC, RWA and UG in ECABREN and Zimbabwe, Zambia and S/Tanzania in SABRN Additional support to ECABREN countries not supported by H+ (Tanzania, Ethiopia and Kenya) Scaling up Two climbing micronutrient dense varieties were released in Burundi. These were Kiangara and VCB 81013. Descriptors for these varieties have been developed. The new varieties are in demonstration sites to create awareness. Fourteen bush micronutrient dense lines were evaluated in multilocation and on-farm trials in Burundi. Seven promising lines were selected in on-station trials. Farmers showed strong preference for six varieties. These were GLP2, Ngwaku Ngwaku, Nakaja, Gofta, Maharagi Soja and M211. Although MLB 49-89 is a highly productive variety and tolerant to diseases, it was not appreciated by women because of the black color of its grain. However, organoleptic tests showed that 50% men found the taste of MLB 49-89A acceptable, while 87% of women indicated that the taste was not good. Descriptors for these varieties are being developed. In eastern DR Congo, 14 bush and five climbing bean micronutrient dense varieties were identified for release. In western DR Congo, six bush and five climbing micronutrient dense varieties were identified for release. In Ethiopia, 16 lines were evaluated in national variety trials at eight locations for the second year. The test lines were evaluated for agronomic traits, cooking quality and mineral density. Results showed that mean grain yield across sites varied from 1565 to 2825 kg ha-1 with a mean of 2056 kg ha-1. The mean of the check variety (Gofta) was 2253 kg ha-1. Two lines (MLB 49 89A and TY 3396-12) had higher yields compared with the check. Seven lines had higher grain concentration compared with the check variety. Thirteen varieties had higher zinc concentration compared with the check. In Kenya, three released climbing micronutrient dense line were registered with KEPHIS for DUS tests. Four bush lines were pre-released. . In Tanzania, 12 micronutrient dense candidate varieties were identified. These included MLB-49-89A, Nain de Kyondo, M’Mafutala, PVA 8, GOFTA, Ngw’aku Ngwaku, Kirundo, K131, RWR 10, Ayenew, Zebra and MCM 2001. At least four candidate varieties will be submitted to the National Variety Release Committee in November 2010. Released varieties: In southern highlands of Tanzania, farmers are growing Roba-1 which has high Fe and Zn content. In Zimbabwe, the breeding program released a high micro nutrient dense bean variety, NUA45. It is officially known as NUA45, and seed production is underway. In Mozambique and Zambia they have registered NUA45 and in addition Zambia has NUA56 under pre-release, as the varieties are going through the DUS procedure. More than 6 high Fe lines are expected to be released in early 2012 in Rwanda; RWV3006, WV2872, RWV2361, CAB2 X LAS, Gasirida, RWV2269, RWV 1348, while two high Iron varieties; CODMLB 001 and HM 21.7 are also expected 26  to be released in DRC-W during the same period. In DRC-E, three high iron varieties were selected and are also expected to be released. The southern DRC has NUA45 on the list of the varieties which will be targeted for release in the near future, and so are countries like Lesotho and Swaziland. 3.1.1.8. Produce nucleus, breeder for pre-release and/or released fast track lines performing well in all countries where applicable Link to H+ project in UG, DRC RWA in ECABREN and Zimbabwe, Zambia and S/Tanzania, Malawi and Mozambique in SABRN. Additional support for production of nucleus and certified breeder seed of released micronutrient varieties in countries not supported by H+ (Kenya). Scaling up Several countries increased seed of pre-release or released micronutrient dense varieties to either to facilitate promotion activities, formal release or dissemination activities. In Burundi, 3500 kg of breeder seed of pre-release or released varieties was produced. In Eastern Congo, seed increase was one the main seasonal activities at Mulungu Centre. At least 20 kg for each candidate variety was produced. Seeds of other promising bean lines were increased. In Western Congo, 140 kg was produced at Mvuasi. More than 500 kg of seed was produced by INERA partners especially the NGO CADIM/Plateau des Bateke. Variety descriptors were developed by INERA and are being harmonized by SENASEM before publication in the National Variety Catalog. Promotional materials were developed for most varieties. In Kenya, nucleus seed of released and pre-released micronutrient dense bean varieties was increased at Kabete. In Rwanda, 900 kg of seed of fast track candidate varieties was produced by ISAR. Another 324 kg was produced through collaboration with DERN. Small quantities of seed of fast track lines were produced in Tanzania. Subtotal output 3.1 Output 3.2 Bean based food products targeted to specific deficiencies, developed, tested and made available to vulnerable areas/communities. P.I.#3.2: At least 5 diversified bean based food products addressing these deficiencies are developed, tested and evaluated with farmers and consumers including vulnerable groups and made available for market, supplementary feed and household consumption Activity set# 3.2.1: Assess and map prevalence of target nutritional deficiencies among vulnerable groups and develop value added bean-based food products for household consumption, supplementary feeding and for markets with agricultural, health and nutrition partners 3.2.1.1. Assess prevalent target nutritional deficiencies, consolidate available primary and secondary data, conduct a mapping exercise, document, publish and disseminate available data; Cameroon, Malawi, Zambia and Southern Tanzania Additional support for SABRN and WECABREN Scaling up Secondary data on national prevalence of various forms of malnutrition has been collected and documented in eight (8) PABRA countries and these are Burundi, Cameroon, East Democratic Republic of Congo (East DRC), Ethiopia, Malawi, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia. The following are the highlights of findings;  Three forms of malnutrition are prevalent and at varying degree in these countries. These are under nutrition (Protein energy malnutrition), micronutrient deficiencies and over nutrition. Vulnerable groups vary for each malnutrition type. This can either be age or gender specific or both. Geographic location of the communities especially designated as rural and urban also provide variation in malnutrition distribution. Generally rural communities are more susceptible to under nutrition and micro-nutrient deficiencies than urban population. While with regards over nutrition the reverse applies.  The average prevalence rate for under nutrition in these countries measured as; stunting, underweight, wasting are 41%, 22% and 7% respectively while the average prevalence rate for sub-Saharan Africa are stunting 38%, underweight 24% and wasting 9%. In Zambia segregation of data by gender for all the indicators revealed that a male child was more likely to be malnourished than a female child. This might suggest that male children are more vulnerable to health inequalities than their female counterparts in the same age groups. The primary data collection survey planned for April 2011 has included a qualitative questionnaire to collect information on the feeding practices of children under-five in Zambia.  Micronutrient malnutrition due to Vitamin A deficiency and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) are also of public health concern. For example IDA, in Cameroon the data shows that two (68%) out of every three children are anemic and for Malawi and Zambia the data shows one (53%) out of every two children are anemic.  Malnutrition resulting from over nutrition is increasing at an alarming rate among children in some of these countries. Zambia for 27  example overweight and obese in children stands at 8% compared to wasting which is at 5%.  Among women all forms of malnutrition exists. The prevalence rate for underweight in women in Cameroon and Zambia stand at 7% and 10% respectively while that for overweight were 29% and 19% respectively. Underweight is more prevalent among the young women (15-19 years) while overweight is more prevalent among older women (above 30 years). Further under nutrition is more prevalent in rural areas than urban, while the reverse is true for overweight and obese. Micronutrient malnutrition in women of child reproductive age group is also of public health concern. Malawi and Cameroon the findings shows that 47% and 45% respectively of the women were anemic while Zambia reported 29.1% in 2003 which was a decrease from 38.3% in 1998 baseline survey.  The average prevalence rate for stunting in these countries is higher than that for all sub-Saharan Africa countries. Stunting reflect chronic malnutrition as a result of failure to receive adequate nutrition over a long period of time. Both food insecurity and poor weaning practices contribute to stunting. The phenomenon of double burden of malnutrition is increasingly becoming important in African countries as they are undergoing nutrition transition. Beans is a food security crop and the nutrient composition of beans that is high content of protein, iron, zinc and fibre positions it as a strategic food that could contribute significantly in reducing these nutritional deficiencies in PABRA countries.  Dietary patterns in these countries are poor and are characterized with low dietary diversity with some countries recording the majority of households consuming less than 7 food groups out of the 13 food groups (based on FAO food grouping). While food insecurity directly contributes to inadequate caloric intake, lack of dietary diversity is one of the major factors contributing to micronutrient deficiencies. The food basket approach being promoted by PABRA aims at improving both caloric intake and dietary diversity in the diet of the vulnerable communities. Baseline nutrition surveys are in progress in Burundi, East DRC and Ethiopia. In Cameroon, and Zambia the generic protocol has been adopted to country specific and work plans detailing the survey activities have been prepared. The surveys are planned for March 2011 in Cameroon and April 2011 in Zambia. In Malawi a rapid nutrition assessment will be done in the communities yet to be selected. The survey has also been planned for April-May 2011. 3.2.1.2. Conduct bean consumption studies of dry bean, snap beans, bean leaves and green pods in Burundi, Ethiopia, Cameroon, Additional support for studies in more countries (Malawi, Zambia, south and north Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda and East DRC) Scaling up Data collected from CBOs working with PABRA in Western Kenya, central Uganda, East DRC and Rwanda has provided preliminary information on bean consumption that will be used to guide this survey. In Rwanda and Burundi 200 gm of beans are consumed daily, while in Uganda and East DRC beans are consumed 3 to 4 times a week. In western Kenya beans are consumed 2 to 3 times a week. Children consume about 100gm of beans per day in combination with several foods. In Rwanda beans is mainly consumed with sweet potato in the North, consumed with green bananas in the south and with cassava in the central part of Rwanda. In Kenya the most common bean dish in a maize- bean meal boiled together. Sometimes beans are eaten with rice. In Uganda, beans are consumed with maize meal (Maize flour puree), rice and green banana. For Cameroon, Malawi and Zambia the bean consumption studies will be done as part the planned baseline survey. Currently there is limited information on bean consumption pattern in these countries 3.2.1.3. Develop value added bean-based food products and baskets at household, community and large scale levels. Additional support for identification and development of generic bean based products with selected Universities (JKUAT/UON, Sokoine and South Africa) to be shared across countries. Scaling up Bean based food baskets were developed in central Uganda and northern Tanzania. Products developed have been documented into recipe books and disseminated across countries. 8 recipe books were developed and disseminated across countries. In addition twelve preliminary food combinations developed in Kenya to assemble ingredient requirements for a complete and locally available food basket are currently being promoted through 18 local CBOs. In Uganda partners selected food combinations that were used to formulate 14 food baskets, currently being promoted by the Community Enterprise Development Organization, CEDO in 4 districts. For countries where primary data collection will be conducted (Cameroon, Malawi and Zambia) information seasonal availability of food 28  will be collected through focus group discussion and a food calendar will be constructed. A participatory approach will be used to develop food baskets based on the food calendar. Bean based products development was initiated in partnership with National Agriculture Research Organizations (NARO), Uganda Food Biosciences Department. Among others, nutrient dense bean based composite flours are being formulated for porridge making with a local food manufacturing industry in Uganda. . The product will be evaluated for its nutrient quality and sensory characteristics and once accepted in Uganda the product formulation and processing technology will be shared with partners across countries. In Ethiopia amylase rich flours are being tested by the food science researchers at the Melkassa Agricultural Research Center to address nutrient needs of children as a complementary weaning food. 3.2.1.4. Evaluate nutrient content of value added bean products/ food baskets; SUA, JKUAT, South Africa and other reference labs. Additional support for evaluating additional/new products Scaling up Products developed above will be evaluated centrally in regional laboratories and results shared with partners. This activity is planned to be conducted after potential products developed above have been selected for nutrient analysis 3.2.1.5. Identify partners and support to promote processed bean products at household, community and other levels New activity Partners have been identified in Cameroon, Zambia and Malawi. These are NGOs already working in the target communities selected for the baseline surveys. An integrated nutrition intervention package has been planned for the target communities which will involve, production of micronutrient rich beans, development and promotion of food baskets and recipes including processed beans products and nutrition education activities. In Zambia an MOU has been signed between PABRA and a local institution which is mandate to promote food and nutrition activities in the country, the National Food and Nutrition Commission. This will facilitate integration of PABRA nutrition activities not only in the selected communities but at National level as well. 3.2.1.6. Conduct consumption studies to determine effect of consumption of selected bean based food baskets and products for rehabilitation of malnourished children – Kenya and Uganda Additional support to effect the activity satisfactorily. Scaling up Protocols for consumption studies have been finalized for western Kenya. The studies will be conducted in 3 health centers selected by the Ministry of Health Provincial Nutrition Office for western Kenya. 18 CBOs have been sub-contracted to multiply 40MT of NUA1 beans for the studies. The studies will involve adolescent girls and targeted from various health centers and institutions. Various nutrition indicators will be used to measure nutrition improvement before after bean consumption for a period of three months. The protocols have been submitted to the MOH of approval. Studies are planned to start in May 2011. In Uganda CEDO is in the process of multiplying seed for studies in sites that will be selected by the MOH. NARO Uganda, Food Science Department is in the process of identifying partners and study sites in collaboration with the Ministry of Health - Nutrition Division. A meeting will be held with key stakeholders in April 2011 to adapt and finalize the protocol for IRB approval. 3.2.1.7. Develop nutrition strategy document, brochures, technical papers, recipe books, booklets on bean dishes consumed in East, Central and South Africa (centrally managed) Supplementary support for additional documentation (PABRA nutrition strategy document, brochures, technical papers and extension material) Scaling up Three nutrition guidelines namely (a) Nutrition strategy, (b) PABRA nutrition training guide and (c) PABRA nutrition brochure are being prepared a) A nutrition strategy document has been drafted. It will be finalised once relevant photographs have been selected and inserted into the document. The aim of the strategy is to guide implementation of PABRA activities across countries. The strategy provides a framework for combating malnutrition in PABRA countries. It outlines the approaches for implementing the proposed activities, in order to undo and control the impact of malnutrition and food insecurity on resource poor communities and vulnerable groups. Once finalised the strategy document will be loaded into the PABRA web site as reference material and print copies will also be available for distribution to PABRA countries. A PABRA nutrition training guide has also been developed for peer review. The guide was reviewed by partners in various ECABREN countries for appropriateness of use and is yet to finalised and printed for partners to use in training communities on micronutrient rich bean utilization. The PABRA Nutrition brochure has been drafted and is yet to be finalised. 3.2.1.8. Train partners on micronutrient nutrition; Cameroon, , Zambia, Malawi, Southern Tanzania, Burundi, Ethiopia, To facilitate utilization, training on exploitation of micronutrient rich beans to enrich local diets coupled with cooking demonstrations and dissemination of extension materials like recipe books, leaf lets, brochures and training tools was enhanced. Training tools were developed 29  Additional support for ECABREN (Ethiopia) Scaling up to facilitate further training by trainers. Second level training was conducted by partners at the community level. Using selected tools, training of trainer courses were conducted in Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, Burundi and East DRC. A total of 129 representative trainers were trained. Training tools were used to facilitate further training at the community level. A total of 1600 male and 6400 female trainers were trained across countries. During training participatory bean recipe development and evaluation is conducted. Selected recipes from locally available ingredients are compiled into recipe books. A total of eight recipes books were developed translated and disseminated to communities in Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi and Tanzania. Training for the countries that will be conducting nutrition baseline studies will be done after the surveys has been conducted and the training will be based on the survey finding The survey will provide programmatic issues that can be of focus during training. Output 3.3: Bio-availability, bio-efficacy, retention of micronutrients and health qualities (alfatoxins) of bean grain determined P.I. #3.3: At least 5 publications (scientific and non scientific) documenting results on bioavailability and bio-efficacy, under various processing and cooking conditions and farmer perceptions of these methods are developed Activity sets#3.3.1: Link with Harvest-Plus to determine bioavailability of iron and zinc in selected micronutrient rich bean varieties and bean based meals under various conditions (e.g. soaking, germination, fermenting, cooking) across PABRA countries. 3.3.1.1 Produce seed of micronutrient rich pre-release or released varieties (Link with REU) Production of seed of micronutrient rich beans was initiated by various partners. In Uganda PABRA works with Community Enterprise Development Organization (CEDO) to reach hundreds of farmer groups. Communities access 3 micronutrient rich bean varieties, AND 620, PV8 and Roba 1. Over 300 farmer groups in Masaka district, lyantonde and Rakai multiplied over 40MT of micronutrient rich bean seed. This resulted into high demand for seed leading to initiation of seed bulking sites with over 15MT of Roba 1. The seed was sold to WFP and Concern Worldwide for further distribution then distributed to over 300 farmer groups with an average membership of 30 farmers. An approximated 60, 000 farmers accessed at least 1 kg of micronutrient rich beans. Farmer groups and individual farmers have adopted beans mainly for sale. As a result bean consumption in the 3 districts has risen from 2-3 times a week to 5 times a week. In Kenya Community Based Organizations (CBOs) like the Nangina social work project are reaching thousands of farmers with micronutrient rich beans and products. Nangina social work project in collaboration with MOH and 18 health-based CBOs produced and disseminated 8MT of micronutrient rich beans to over 30,000 farmers. In Rwanda four varieties bulked and distributed through 6 health centers were accessed by approximately 19,000 farmers. In Ethiopia the Food Science Department of the MELKASSA Agricultural Research Station is promoting beans as an additional food crop that will improve dietary quality among communities that do not traditionally consume beans. 400kg of micronutrient rich bean seed was disseminated to 3000 farmers in two Kabale (districts). In Burundi and DRC PABRA facilitates linkages between the national nutrition organization under the MOH, PRONANUT and the National Agricultural Research Station to link bean extension work with nutrition and health outcomes. Through these linkages, 10kg of seed was distributed to 8 health centers in South Kivu and Bas Congo provinces for multiplication and dissemination. In Zambia following a stakeholders meeting in August 2010 a rigorous off season seed multiplication programme was put in place (at least three harvest during the off season) to ensure access of micronutrient rich beans by identified vulnerable households in Nov 2011 which is the beginning of the 2011/2012 planting season. 30  Similarly in Malawi a nutrition stakeholder meeting was held in December and following the meeting a work plan was put in place to ensure seed multiplication of the two released varieties NUA 56 and NUA 59. Catholic Relief Services was given a total of 50 kg (25 kg each) of basic seed for seed multiplication. An MOU has also been put in place to governor the partnership between the National Agriculture Research Services, Department of Agriculture-CIAT/PABRA and CRS. In Cameroon a trial of 5 kg micronutrient rich beans for 4 varieties was given to one of the two selected communities in August 2010 for planting. Though no actual figures on the yield have been provided indication were that good harvest was obtained from all the varieties. 3.3.1.2. Use advocacy for policy influence and create awareness among farmers, consumers, traders and other targeted beneficiaries about micronutrient-rich beans: Malawi, Zambia, south-TZ, Burundi, Ethiopia, Cameroon, Togo, Guinea Conakry New activity Advocacy tools developed include the PABRA nutrition brochure and nutrition strategy document. To develop advocacy for bean promotion, meetings have been held with key policy decision makers in the area of nutrition in Ethiopia, Burundi, Rwanda, East DRC, Malawi and Zambia to create required sensitization on the importance of particularly micronutrient rich beans in addressing nutritional deficiencies. Further forum advocacy to policy makers and traditional leaders will be done prior to conducting the baseline surveys in the countries where these surveys have been planned for. 3.3.1.3. Establish baseline content of Fe/Zn in raw and processed beans (incl. cooked beans) and consolidate available data for different categories of users; document and disseminate through partners Minimum target levels were set based on existing available data on bean intake, and estimates of iron retention and bioavailability. An initial exercise with available information estimated that a minimum increment of 44 micrograms iron/gram bean would need to be added to a baseline of 50 micrograms iron/gram of bean in Africa. Using adult women as a reference, at 200 g bean intake/day, 85% retention after processing and cooking, and a bioavailability of 5%, this would provide the equivalent of 26% of the mean daily iron requirement. Several factors influence micronutrient retention in beans. These include cooking temperature, cooking time, amount of cooking water used, and amount of water added/drained during the cooking process, and initial moisture content of the legumes. PABRA in collaboration with Sokoinne University of Agriculture in Tanzania and University of Nairobi in Kenya conducted nutrient content and retention studies and provided results that have been shared across countries. Studies of iron retention following boiling (with and without presoaking) in varieties of common beans were initiated at Sokoinne University. Baseline content of iron and zinc in raw dry beans was established for over 60 micronutrient rich bean varieties selected from various PABRA countries. Studies were conducted in collaboration with Harvest Plus at ETH Zurich, University of Nairobi, Sokoine University in Tanzania and the Institute for Soil, Climate and Water, IRC in South Africa. A list of micro nutrient contents of raw beans has been developed. 3.3.1.4. Assess cooking qualities (soaking, PH, water etc) of fast track lines UON and SUA Cooking time of beans is a major factor considered by farmers in variety selection. Cooking qualities of micronutrient rich beans were assessed by communities given a protocol that provided guideline for assessing cooking time, amount of water used with similar cooking methods and temperatures. This information will be synthesized into a report and shared with partners in the next financial year. 3.3.1.5. Conduct bio-availability studies of iron content in beans (Rwanda by H+) No additional budget requested Under Harvest Plus, screening for iron bioavailability using an in vitro Caco-2 cell model indicated that the inhibitory effect of polyphenols on iron bioavailability was the predominate predictor of bioavailability. This was in agreement with published studies on iron absorption in humans with polyphenols from beverage sources. However, a Harvest Plus study using hemoglobin repletion of anemic piglets indicated that iron bioavailability from red beans with a high polyphenol content was not different from white beans with negligible polyphenol content. Results from Harvest Plus research indicate that in humans, bean polyphenolics have a dose response inhibitory effect on iron absorption when fed to presumably healthy Swiss adults. The contrasting results with the animal studies noted above could be attributable to differences in the digestive capacity of humans and pigs or to the lack of adaptation to polyphenols among the human subjects participating in the study. Experiments on in-vitro bioavailability were carried out in Sokoinne University in Tanzania on dry and green shelled beans. In vitro bioavailability of iron and zinc in bean samples was determined by HCl pepsin (HCl-P) and pepsin-pancreatin (P-P) method. Total in vitro bioavailable mineral content of the raw and cooked bean samples was determined by the AOAC method No 968.08 and970.12(1995). In 31  both minerals there was a small but significant (P=0.009) and (P=0.0003) increase in bioavailability after cooking. The average increase for all the varieties was from 3.2% to 3.4% for iron and from 1.3% to 1.6% for zinc, . Vulnerable groups who suffer from micronutrient deficiencies especially iron and zinc, like children below five years of age, pregnant and lactating mothers should be encouraged to consume green shelled beans more often to improve their mineral uptake. Activity set#3.3.2: Evaluate effect of different methods and conditions of post harvest grain management on quality and safety 3.3.2.1 Develop tools and design survey on post harvest handling and storage of beans, and asses their economic and quality implications in selected PABRA countries (Cameroon, Zambia, Malawi, South Tanzania, Kenya Uganda, Rwanda, Ethiopia) Additional support for countries in ECABREN and SABRN Scaling up Tools for post harvest studies have been developed. Approval for commencement of the studies is awaited from the Ministry of Health Institutional Review Board of Rwanda. In Malawi, Zambia and Cameroon this has been integrated as a section in to the nutrition baseline survey to be conducted in the targeted communities. 3.3.2.2. Assess the types and level of mycotoxins in bean samples in partnership with CIAT pathologist Efforts were initiated in Uganda to assay for the presence or absence and quantify the levels of aflatoxins on common bean seeds. Seed samples from markets and farmers’ stores were collected from three districts representing the relative temperature categories of warm (Mbale), Moderate (Kampala) and Cold (Kabale and Masaka).The samples were screened in a one-step lateral flow immunochromatographic assay with a cut-off of 4 ppb using AgraStrip® Aflatoxin Test kit according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Positive samples with aflatoxin greater or equal the cut-off level were subjected to an ELISA-based quantification test procedure. Preliminary results showed the growth of Aspergillus flavus on several samples. Qualitative aflatoxin tests detected over 10% positive cases. Most of the positive cases were from Mbale district. Aflatoxin levels in samples from the cooler areas of Kabale and Masaka districts were below the detection level of 4ppb. Levels of aflatoxin contamination on positive cases ranged from 1.9 to 24.8 ppb. Samples from Mbale district had the highest levels of contamination. A more elaborate sampling procedure needs to be done to determine the national extent of the problem. 3.3.2.3. Consolidate existing information and data on micronutrient rich bean varieties (Nutrient density, cooking qualities bioavailability and nutrient retention) Existing information was consolidated and compiled into 7 journal articles. Two of the journal articles have been submitted for review and one accepted for publication in the African Journal of Biotechnology. 3.3.2.4. Regional back up support by Nutritionist Specialist (75% time and travel) The nutrition specialist visited programs in DR Congo, Rwanda, Kenya Ethiopia, Burundi and Uganda. S Participated in a planning meeting with Harvest Plus to facilitate partner involvement and identify sites for efficacy trials. In order to characterize micronutrient rich bean varieties and consolidate information on research activities that prove the nutrition benefit of micronutrient rich bean varieties, the nutrition specialist is leading development of 3 out of seven refereed journal articles developed in the writing retreat in Arusha Tanzania. The nutrition specialist organized a nutrition core team meeting with partners across PABRA countries in Uganda and led the development of country based work plans and implementation plans across countries. The nutritionist also represented PABRA in the 4th African Nutrition Congress in Nairobi Kenya and participated in a bio fortification and dietary diversification symposium in collaboration with Bio-versity international. The nutritionist also presented a paper on the role of micronutrient rich beans in combating protein and micronutrient malnutrition in rural Africa. The PABRA nutrition specialist organized and led a nutrition partners meeting to develop country work plans, harmonize and prioritize activities, identify roles and responsibilities given capacities of partners in various countries. The meeting was attended by representative partners from Ethiopia, Tanzania, Burundi, Kenya, Uganda and East DRC. In order to introduce nutrition activities in Ethiopia and Burundi. The nutritionist organised stakeholder meetings with national partners 32  from representative sectors to plan activity implementation and develop and inform nutrition policy makers on planned activities and strategies within the two countries. The nutritionist participated in various proposal development activities to solicit additional funding for selected activities. 3.3.2.5 Regional backup support of Nutrition Facilitator 100% time and travel (SABRN) .To support additional travel and backstopping surveys. Scaling up The Nutrition Facilitator provided support to the development, implementation and evaluation of various PABRA activities in the framework, in particular the following areas.  Forging partnership among nutrition players in Southern Africa to promote PABRA Nutrition Agenda. Facilitated the signing of an MOU between CIAT/PABRA and the National Food and Nutrition Commission (NFNC) in Zambia. Provided guidance to Zambia National Program by providing a generic format for a Partnership agreement. Held discussion with Bunda College of Agriculture and formalize the partnership through signing of an MOU. A consensus has been reached and drafting of the MOU is in advanced stage. Facilitated the in-country nutrition stakeholder meetings.  Drafted policies and guidelines (the nutrition strategy) to guide implementation of nutrition activities in PABRA countries.  Contribute in developing collaborative nutrition research and development projects and in mobilization of new financial resources from McKnight. Also developed a concept note.  Support capacity building and training to increase knowledge and skills in the use of micronutrient rich beans through technical visits particular Zambia, Cameroon and Malawi. Mentorship especially for secondary data collection, (terms of reference for collecting and documenting secondary data) and Development of the protocol for nutrition baseline survey.  Provided input to the development of communication strategies and IEC materials to promote the use of micronutrient rich beans in target areas, particular the PABRA nutrition brochures.  Represented SABRN at the National Bean Network, Platform meetings, Regional platform meeting and SABRN steering committee meeting and guided National Bean Coordinators with their country nutrition plan under outcome 3 3.3.2.6. Regional backup services support Outcome 3(ECABREN BREEDER 25% time and travel) ECABREN Regional breeder continued to backstop several programs developing micronutrient dense bean varieties. He visited and discussed activities with programs in Tanzania, Rwanda, Cameroon and Central African Republic and reviewed their work plans for 2010/2011. He also supported DR Congo, Kenya and other programs to analyze their samples for mineral density in local laboratories, and also with importation and shipment of three sets of materials from eastern and western DR Congo to University of Adelaide for comparison and cross-lab quality control. He also increased and shipped second generation micronutrient dense lines (NUV, NUA and KAB) for further evaluation in Rwanda, DR Congo and Madagascar. Initiated evaluation of fast track lines for bioavailability and nutritional quality in partnership with nutritionist at Sokoine University of Agriculture and PABRA nutritionist. Supported the program in Kenya to produce nucleus seed of the first fully released micronutrient varieties, which will be used to produce certified breeder seed in partnership with regulatory agency (KEPHIS). He continued with development of strategic populations combining mineral density with farmer preferred agronomic traits and resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. He also convened IPHIS training for partners collaborating under the Nutribean project, which attracted scientists and technicians from six other PABRA countries. The breeder left in January 2011. 3.3.2.7. Regional Network Coordinators' support to outcome 3 (10% Staff time ECABREN, 10% staff time SABRN) ECABREN and SABRN coordinators continued to support the development and delivery of micronutrient rich materials. They also supported partner selection and adoption of the materials. The new ECABREN coordinator is involved in discussions with FAO and WFP regarding the utilization of micronutrient rich bean varieties by the joint WFP/FAO Purchase for Progress (P4P) Program 33  3.3.2.8. Back-up research on bean disease resistance to provide networks with new resistant germplasm adapted to Africa [18% of time of PABRA pathologist] The PABRA pathologist continued to support screening for resistance to key diseases (Root rot, ALS, BCMNV) of new nutrient rich materials from the region and CIAT HQ. He also carried out the study under Activity 3.3.2.2 on mycotoxins. 3.3.2.9. PDF Networks Breeder support - ECABREN, SABRN & WECABREN (40% - supported by H+) The PDF Networks Breeder participated in the designing the 2010-2011 workplan for the Harvest Plus project in Rwanda. She also increased seed of 60 varieties from the Seeds of Hope project that were shown to have high levels of iron and zinc. This seed is now currently being evaluated in Rwanda for its agronomic traits. The seed is to be re-evaluated for its mineral content. The PDF monitored field trials in Rwerere, Rubona, Ruhengeri, and Muhanga/Gikongoro and participated in selections of some of the materials to be advanced. She also participated in the initiation of the development of a regional nutrition nursery which currently is made up of 58 lines. She interacted with the major players (Harvest Plus, CIAT-Head quarters, INERA and ISAR) on this project in understanding its objectives and directions. 3.3.2.10. Regional Resource Person to Nutrition The network resource person facilitated the nutrition core team meeting, developed draft proposals for specific activities and visited study sites in Kenya and Uganda. He also participated in developing study tools for baseline surveys and development of the nutrition training guide to facilitate further training at the community level by trainers previously trained. Outcome # 4: Small holder farmers, traders and other value chain actors benefit more from opportunities created by emerging new and expanding existing markets Output 4.1: Farmers have access to information on markets and are effectively linked to national, regional and international bean markets using equitable and sustainable value chain options P.I.#4.1: At least three strategies for market information delivery (including ICT based strategies) are developed with partners reaching at least 1 million end users (with at least 40% being women) in at least 6 PABRA countries (3 in ECABREN and 3 in SABRN, with at least 50% of these accessing profitable national, regional and international bean markets by 2012 Activity set# 4.1.1: Conduct value chain analysis for bean based products in national, regional and international markets: develop strategies for effectively linking smallholder farmers. 4.1.1.1. Review, and evaluate national bean market information systems (MIS) Additional support for Central Africa Republic and Togo Scaling up This activity was completed in the year for 15 countries: Uganda, Kenya, Ethiopia, Eastern DR Congo, Western DR Congo, Burundi, Rwanda and Northern Tanzania in ECABREN; Malawi, Southern Tanzania, Mozambique, Zambia and Zimbabwe from SABRN and; Cameroon from WECABREN. Togo and Central Africa Republic are completing the activity. The results indicate that most countries do not have specialized market information systems tailor made for agricultural products, beans included. However most have a number of information systems that can be adapted to take on bean and other agricultural product information. A major upcoming MIS is the use of mobile phones in countries such as Malawi, Mozambique and Uganda. Mobile phone usage is now widespread among actors in agricultural value chains. Despite some of the information on agricultural markets being available in the mass media (radio and newspapers) on regular basis in a number of countries, the effectiveness of these channels in reaching smallholder farmers and other bean product actors is yet to be ascertained. PABRA will further seek to link farmers and other bean actors to bean market information platforms in the different PABRA countries, based on the needs identified among the bean value chain actors. 4.1.1.2. Conduct gender disaggregated value chain analysis for beans products Additional support for analysis in Kenya, Rwanda, Malawi and Cameroon Scaling up Detailed bean value chain studies were planned and implementation began in selected countries. The countries participating were selected based on the findings on market information and bean market situation in the 13 countries that have so far participated in the bean market activities. The countries that are participating in this activity are: Burundi, and Rwanda in ECABREN, Mozambique, Malawi and Zambia in SABRN and Cameroon in WECABREN. However, the activity has been scaled to Uganda, Western DRC, and Eastern DRC. Bean value chain studies have been divided into the following clusters: - Producer interfaces with market - Bean trade/market surveys 34  - Bean regional/cross border trade - Bean consumer preference studies - Seed and input market surveys - Market information and other business development services This includes other issues that relate to bean trade such as policy and institutional issues in the countries and the region. Given that it is not possible to comprehensively study all these components at once due to costs and time limitations, different countries will keep prioritizing entry levels for the studies, such that they leverage the studies for maximum impact in reaching the ultimate bean users. Following this classification, the following are a summary of the status of the different studies that have taken place so far in the PABRA countries with respect to bean product markets. Malawi and Mozambique: The activity was widened to cover cross border trade in collaboration with a university in South Africa. A concept note for the study is being prepared by the Malawi bean programme for this purpose and the outcome of the process will be available in April 2011. Zambia: The activity is being undertaken in collaboration with the University of Zambia to cover the entire bean value chain. PABRA and the university have jointly designed the data collection tools which are being pre-tested in readiness for data collection. McKnight project is also collaborating with PABRA on the activity. Western DRC: A market level bean value chain survey was conducted in December 2010 and completed in January 2011 involving the major markets of Kinshasa. The focus on Kinshasa arises because of the size of the market (with a population of about 10 million people). Due to this large size, it constitutes a key market for the rest of the bean producing areas of Bas Congo province and beyond (beans are flown in from eastern part of the country). In addition, Kinshasa is a major market for beans from other countries that produce beans in surplus such as Cameroon. Bean studies in Kinshasa market are therefore to studies in other regions and bean producing countries. The study in Kinshasa involved 140 traders randomly selected from the key markets in Kinshasa city. Information was collected on actors in the market including transporters, wholesalers, and retailers. Prices variations in the market were also assessed as well as identifying the key buyers. The results of this study will feed into linking farmers in bean producing areas of Bas Congo and Eastern DRC to the Kinshasa market through creating functional bean marketing platform. The final survey report for the survey is being completed. Eastern DRC: a study was carried out in Eastern DRC in August/September 2010 to assess operations of bean markets and linkages to markets beyond Eastern DRC, especially the Kinshasa market. The study focused on key traders, most of whom have formed a trader association that is being linked to producer associations. A functional bean marketing platform is being formed to achieve. A tracking of traders who transport beans to Kinshasa market was conducted as well as the prices and volumes and means of transporting the beans to various markets. Beans are mostly transported by air to Kinshasa, and by water (on lake Kivu) from North Kivu province to markets in south Kivu province. The study was also able to establish market preferences for beans by consumers through trader interviews for both North and south Kivu. Reports for these studies have been completed. Uganda: Studies on bean value chain at the producer market interfaces were conducted in Uganda in the year, focusing mostly in eastern, central and western parts of Uganda. Key assessments involved the contribution of beans to the livelihoods of the households in these regions. Beans are one of the most important crops in these regions, food as well as for income. The participation of women in the incomes arising from the beans was also evaluated relative to other crops in the households. Rwanda: Studies in Rwanda were also conducted in the northern parts of the country as well as the main markets in Kigali city. The studies identified the key varieties traded in the markets as well the key market actors. This information will feed into the anticipated bean market platforms for Rwanda that will be extended to the eastern part of the country. Kigali is the main market for beans because of its position as the largest city and beans being a major staple crop for the people. This information will be supplemented by farm level studies seeking to evaluate the profitability of the various bean types such as climbing beans and bush beans across the country and also feed into the seed systems work being conducted by PABRA and the national research institute (ISAR). Kenya: One study was conducted in the central rift valley region of Kenya targeting various bean markets in major towns. The study 35  targeted bean retailers and wholesalers in these markets. The gender of the traders varied across all the four markets surveyed with three of the markets being predominantly male. In addition, the traders were mostly about 35 years. Variety preference was also assessed and the results indicated that while new and improved varieties are popular, there are a few older varieties that are still popular. This information will assist in designing dissemination strategies for the regions based on the high popularity of the new varieties. Burundi: the value chain study in Burundi targeted bean producers, seed producers and bean traders across the country. A represented sample from across the provinces was used to analyze bean and seed market dynamics in Burundi. The results of the survey have been compiled in a report on the Burundi country bean production and market report. Key actors in the bean production and marketing were identified in the study. Women and men are almost equally involved in bean production but more men are involved in the bean trade at the market level than women. A draft report on bean production and markets in Burundi has been prepared. One research paper on bean production in Burundi has been submitted to the African Journal of crop sciences following participation in the PABRA writeshop in Arusha 21-16Feb 2011. Cameroon: The bean surveys in Cameroon involve bean producers and traders across key producing areas of the country. Along the survey, major bean markets and bean actors are being documented in preparation for the formation of bean market platforms. Data was collected from February 2011 and ends in march 2011. Data entry will take place in march followed by data analysis from April. The report of the activity will be prepared from April to May 2011. Several research papers are anticipated to be generated from the survey with full participation of the Cameroon national bean program. 4.1.1.3 Conduct a data analysis training workshop and write-shop for bean product value chains Additional support for a write-up Scaling up Data analysis training was conducted in June 2010 and was attended by members of the markets working group form the PABRA countries. A number of market lead persons from different PABRA countries participated in the PABRA writeshop that was held in Arusha from 21- 26 February 2011 to present some of the research results from bean activities in their countries. Draft papers were available for the workshop from the following PABRA countries: Western DRC, Eastern DRC, Kenya, Burundi, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Northern Tanzania, Ethiopia, and Cameroon. These were presented by 8 market lead persons from these countries. A number of these papers that meet the requirements of the journal (African journal of crop sciences) will be considered for publication in a special volume of the journal. The production of research publications is as a result of the value chain and data analysis training conducted for the market lead persons to be able to conduct value chain research and publish the results. More research publications are expected from the team in the coming year. 4.1.1.4. Document and evaluate major bean markets- their characteristics, constraints and opportunities Additional support for new countries WECABREN (Central Africa Republic, Togo) Scaling up Bean market documentation continued in the reporting period and has now been integrated in bean value chain analyses for those countries that did not already complete it on it. The activity has been completed for 15 countries indicated in activity 4.1.1.1 above. The reports for these activities for each country are available. The completed activities formed the basis for the detailed value chain studies in selected countries. For the new countries, especially in WECABREN, and for others that delayed (e.g. Rwanda) this activity is being phased into limited value chain studies in order to scale out faster the market activities and especially in contributing to the establishment of bean market platforms based on stakeholders involved in beans. Summary results indicate that there is a growing demand for beans in most of the countries; this is both within the countries, regionally and internationally. In addition, the strong network of stakeholders has potential to improve access to markets and market information in many of the countries participating in bean programs. This forms the basis of establishing bean market platforms in the PABRA countries. Further studies on the bean trade in Africa indicate that the quantity of beans traded is declining per season in some countries, may be because of low production in PABRA member countries. However, the bean market prices have been rising over the years. Therefore, farmers can utilize this opportunity to increase bean production to benefit from high market prices. Collaborations with regional trade bodies such as the East African Community and COMESA have the potential to increase regional trade in beans. PABRA is establishing collaborating relationships with ACTESA/COMESA with regard to beans in the region, which will contribute to country level and regional bean trade. 36  Output 4.2: Competitive and market demanded products identified and promoted in collaboration with smallholder farmers P.I.#4.2: At least 5 dry bean, 4 snap, 5 canning and 3 runner bean varieties (as distinct product lines) addressing different markets are identified by 2012 Activity set# 4.2.1: Generate dry, snap, climbing, runner, canning bean varieties for niche markets and evaluate with farmers (male and female) and other chain actors (consumers, traders, hoteliers, farmers, processors etc.) 4.2.1.1. Evaluate and advance segregating population of different market types against major constraints. 4.2.1.1.1a Complete base line diagnosis and germplasm collection, characterization for all accessions (include snap, tepary & lima beans for Sierra Leone and Burkina Faso) in WECABREN countries. In the WECABREN region, Burkina Faso, Central African Republic, Congo Brazzaville, Guinea Conakry, Senegal and Sierra Leone were to complete base line diagnosis and germplasm collection and characterization. It has been done in most of these countries and reports are yet to come in. In Cameroon base line diagnosis was done on Snap bean prior to undertaking evaluation of introduced snap bean lines. Thirteen (13) local land races were cultivated for the agro-industry PROLEG and farmers. These were: Contender, Cora, Baraka, Bingo, Lolita, Phenomena, Green giant, Long Leader, Julia, Super violace fonce (SVF), Beurre, Morgan and Manner. 4.2.1.1.1b. Advance high value dry bean populations from F1 to F6 and other crosses to the next generation and select for recombinants for major agronomic and market traits and evaluate for genotype x environment interactions Several programs selected dry bean types with high market value from introduced and local populations. The new selections reflect new or strong preferences in local or regional markets. In Uganda, selections were made for sugar, red mottled and yellow grain types from populations segregating for resistance to anthracnose and other biotic stresses. In Sudan, selections were made for navy and large white from multiple constraint nurseries. New grain types gaining popularity include browns, small reds and blacks. The Sudan bean program is evaluating new local selections with brown (Salawa Brown), red (Red Mexican) and black seed (Salawa Black) coats. In Tanzania lines with pink, Calima, purple, cream, reds, kablanketi and red kidney grain types were evaluated by women and men farmers in preliminary yield trial under severe drought conditions at SARI, Tanzania. Twelve lines were evaluated in uniform cultivar trials at Selian and Machine Tools trial sites. Yields were lower at Selian due to severe drought, high incidence of rust, common bacterial blight and halo blight. Grain yield varied from 431 to 1113 kg ha-1 with a mean of 811 kg ha-1. Only Selian 05 and Teebus had yields above 1 ton at Selian. In contrast, grain yield varied from 1010 to 1344 kg ha-1 with a mean of 1175 kg ha-1 at Machine Tools. Major diseases at Machine Tools were black root, rust and common bacterial blight. All 12 lines had yields above 1 ton at this site. The best yielding lines were Hujuti (1344 kg/ha), Kiimarisho (1279 kg/ha), VTTT 926/5 (1275 kg/ha) and VTTT 917/8 (1244 kg/ha). Hujuti and Kiimarisho were selected from a participatory breeding program. Although large white is the most important market class in Madagascar, participatory selection has revealed new preferences for grain types. In response to new preferences, the bean program in Madagascar has included red mottled and large reds in the breeding program. Of the 11 new varieties due for release six are dark red kidneys, 1 is red mottled and four are large white. More than 6000 kg of seed of these varieties was produced. In Kenya seed of new sugar varieties selected from local crosses was increased at Kabete. In Kenya, red mottled, red kidneys, small red and pinto are traditionally the most popular grain types. However, there is growing interest in sugars and yellow types for domestic consumption and navy for canning industry. 4.2.1.1.2. Advance snap bean populations from F1 to F6 and other crosses to the next generation and select recombinants for pod quality, rust, ALS and Anthracnose resistances. (Linked to ASARECA project covering UG, KE, TZ, RW) In Kenya, selections were made from F2, F3, and F5 generations from 31 snap bean populations developed at Kabete. The trials were conducted at Mwea and Thika with supplemental irrigation. The trials were laid out in split plot design. The main plots were fungicide treatments. Each trial had two treatments: half of the trial was protected with fungicides and the other half was inoculated with local isolates of angular leaf spot, anthracnose and rust with two treatments: protected with fungicides and unprotected. During the first season, single plant showing resistance to two or more diseases were selected and used to establish progeny rows. Parental lines (sources of resistance to the three diseases) and ten commercial varieties were included as checks. Results showed that five of the commercial varieties were resistant to anthracnose. The other five showed intermediate to susceptible reactions. Four commercial varieties were resistant to angular leaf spot, three showed intermediate reaction and three were susceptible to angular leaf spot. Nine of the ten commercial varieties were very susceptible to rust (scores of 7-9). This implied that farmers growing these varieties must apply fungicides to produce pods of acceptable quality. Results showed that application of fungicides reduced disease severity and incidence in all plots. Unprotected plots had lower pods per plant and seed yield. For example, mean seed yield was 435 kg ha-1 in unprotected plots compared to 576 kg ha-1 in plots protected with fungicides. Progeny rows showing resistance to rust and other diseases were advanced to the next 37  generation. Four crosses were made between climbing snap and various sources of resistance to develop new climbing snap beans with resistance to priority diseases. Climbing snap beans available from CIAT have flat pods which are not acceptable in local and export markets. Advanced bush and climbing snap bean lines and populations were distributed from Kabete to bean programs in Uganda, Burundi, Tanzania, Cameroon, Togo and Senegal for local evaluation and selection. In Rwanda, one snap bean variety was released. 4.2.1.1.3. Select for resistance to rust, angular leaf spot, anthracnose and market preferred pod characteristics from new populations (distributed in February 2010) in ECABREN (Burundi, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania) and WECABREN (Senegal, Togo, Sierra Leone and Cameroon), SABRN (Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe and South Africa ) New activity In SABRN the germplasm for snap beans is currently under evaluation, and the crop is still in the field in Malawi In Kenya, F2, F3, F4 and F5 generations were evaluated for reaction to inoculation with isolates of rust, angular leaf spot and anthracnose in trials conducted at Mwea and Thika. Selected lines were advanced to next generation and evaluated for pod quality and pod yield during the second season. Results indicated there was genetic variability for these traits which will facilitate development of a new generation of snap bean lines with multiple resistance to diseases and reduced reliance of fungicides. Results from inoculation trials indicated that most of the current commercial lines are susceptible to rust, angular leaf spot, forcing farmers to use chemicals in managing the diseases. These diseases reduced pod quality and pod yield and profitability of snap bean production. Advanced lines were also evaluated for pod yield and susceptibility in on-farm trials conducted at Kibimbi, Kutus and Kibirigwi. The three sites are located in major snap bean production areas in the Central highlands of Kenya. A farmers’ field day was conducted at Kibimbi which provided an opportunity for farmers to learn new techniques in snap bean production. In other countries, snap germplasm was sown in observation trials. Selection is expected to start next season. Snap bean germplasm was also provided to a PhD student working on marker assisted selection for rust at Moi University in Kenya. In WECABREN: Cameroon, Togo and Senegal received from ECABREN 114 snap bean segregating population lines to select for resistance to diseases. They are: lines F4 SPS; lines HABS; lines F3; lines F4; lines Back crosses, KSB, and Climbers. Some of the materials had germination problems and affected by root rots. . Another set of genetic materials was requested by Cameroon. The screening is ongoing in Senegal and Togo. 4.2.1.1.4. Select short day snap and dry runner bean lines from existing populations and advance to the next generation and assess genotype x environment interactions (Linked to ASARECA project covering UG, KE, TZ, RW) More than 1300 short day single plants were selected from F5 bulks from five runner bean (Phaseolus coccineus L.) populations developed at Kabete. The selections were made at Kabete, Ol Jorok and Subukia in Kenya from population bulks that were segregating for pod length, pod type (grain or snap) and pod load. The populations were derived from crosses between short day and long day runner bean parents. Runner bean pods are a high value vegetable and grain crop. Commercial runner bean varieties require extended daylight to stimulate flowering and pod development. 4.2.1.1.5. Select for canning quality, bruchid resistance, drought tolerance and other agronomic traits from existing and new populations and advanced lines (Linked to McKnight, AGRA, BMGF supported projects) In Kenya, 200 canning bean lines were evaluated for productivity at Mwea and in participatory variety selection in Kirinyaga and Nakuru districts. Data was collected on disease incidence, plant type and yield potential. A sample of the lines is being evaluated for canning quality in the Dept of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Nairobi in partnership with a canning firm in Kenya. Forty three small white canning bean and carioca lines were evaluated in checkrow trials at three localities in South Africa (Potchefstroom, Cedara and Harrismith) during the 2009/10 season. From these, twelve were selected for further evaluation during 2010/2011. A replicated phase trial consisting of 26 small seeded bean lines and a small seeded pilot trial consisting of 27 lines were planted at the same localities. The trials at Potchefstroom and Harrismith were severely affected by heavy rains during the growing season, which resulted in poor yields obtained from the trial at Potchefstroom. The trial at Harrismith was destroyed by hail and could, therefore, not be harvested. Cedara was the only locality where the trials were successful. No selections could be made from the phase and pilot trials on the basis of yield, agronomic characteristics and disease resistance as only the data from one trial was reliable to use. As a result of the poor quality (and small quantities) of the small white beans harvested from Potchefstroom, no canning tests was performed. 4.2.1.1.6. Train partners in techniques for evaluating and selection for canning quality New activity This activity has been carried forward to June-July 2011, because the person who could facilitate the training in South Africa is out of the country on a study visit, until May-June 2011. 38  4.2.2.1. Evaluate available varieties in partnership with traders, processors, exporters, farmers and consumers (including yellow and red mottled) and identify pre-released, released varieties and advanced lines with high commercial value in domestic and regional markets. South Africa: PPB trials were reduced and conducted in 5 different localities due to the challenges faced by the farmers on the previously planted sites. Twenty five entries were selected for evaluation on-farm at the different localities. Entries consisted of different seed types, mainly speckled sugar, small white, Calima and carioca. We had trials on the following sites: KwaMpande, KwaSwayimane, KwaMgwagwa, Mtubatuba (Nkundusi x2 trials). One of the trials at Nkundusi and kwaSwayimane and kwaMgwagwa were discarded as we couldn`t use the results obtained due to different reasons which we will rectify for the next season to avoid further disruptions. Some of the reasons were: Sloppy area planted which resulted in washing off and crusting of soil which thus led to poor germination, poor land preparation, poor weed control and termite and ant damage, poor communication between the research team and the extension officers which led to communication breakdown between the officers and the farmers. Though some trials were unsuccessful but the farmers in the successful ones were excited with the program as they are able to produce their own food. Seed harvested at the research station was used for planting purposes. The involvement of the Extension Officers is highly required but in some cases their cooperation was not what is expected. Malawi: Several navy beans lines which were evaluated at Chitedze Research Station out yielded the check variety (Kabalabala). There was a yield range of 2083 kg ha-1 and 166.7 kg ha-1. This means that there are some more potential navy bean materials that perform better than the released Kabalabala. Zambia: The bean program in Zambia is directing more efforts at navy (canning) bean so as to have materials to supply the canning industry in Zambia. A yield range of 684-1815 kg/ha was recorded in this trial with a mean of 1178 kg/ha. The top yielding lines were BAT 443XAW, CIM –NAV02-12-1, KRESTWOOD, MEXICAN 142 and EX-RICO23/BAT338-19. Seed size ranged from 17 – 27 g/100 seed, with CIM-NAV02-27-1 having the biggest size in the trial while ALPINE was the smallest. Lesotho: The bean program evaluated several bean germplasm from South Africa and SABRN to identify some with high yield potential, which were also resistant to major pests and diseases, but also had acceptable market qualities. The results showed that from the specific market classes: Pinton: GCI 337 and GCI 325 from South Africa, but also DC 12485-79 and DC 12498-1-2 from SARBN performed well; Sugar: CIM-SUG-02-45-1 and CIM-SUG-02-15-1 from SABRN performed well. 4.2.2.2 Develop demonstration plots and variety leaflets for released and pre- release varieties of bush and climbing beans (Linked to REU) In Uganda, 110 demonstration plots for improved varieties namely NABE 12C, NABE 13 and NABE 14 were established in 8 districts of western (5 districts) and eastern (2 districts) Uganda. Other demonstrations were established in West Nile region in partnership with Abi ZARDI. Field days were held in western Uganda in 4 districts with 25 farmer groups, eastern Uganda in two districts and central Uganda in two districts. Translated brochures on varieties NABE 13, NABE 14 and NABE 12C from English to four local languages (Lugisu, Rukiga, Mufumbira and Lutoro/Runyankore was completed A total of 6,000 leaflets on bush and climbing beans (English version) (NABE 4, NABE12C and NABE13/14) were produced and distributed to stakeholders and 4,000 posters on production of NABE 4, K132, NABE 12C, NABE 13 and NABE 14 in Mufumbira and Runyankore/Lutoro languages were distributed to seed producers and other stakeholders for awareness creation. In season B, 26 demonstrations plots were conducted in 3 locations: Bururi, Cibitoke and Gitega provinces with improved varieties (Climbers, Katumani varieties, fast track varieties). In Burundi, three leaflets for the followings varieties were developed: leaflets for katumani varieties in French; Leaflets for Mukungungu in Kirundi and leaflets on tithonia were developed and used for training of farmers and extensions services. Similar demonstration plots were established in Madagascar and other countries. Additional activities in ECABREN are planned for the next planting season. 39  4.2.2.3 Conduct exhibition of released and pre- release varieties of bush and climbing beans for traders, processors, exporters and farmers to create awareness of available materials for local, domestic, regional and international markets. Increase linkages with traders and exporters Linked to outcome5 In Uganda, K 132, NABE 4, NABE 12C, NABE 13 and NABE14 were exhibited as commercial varieties for domestic and regional markets during field days. All released varieties were exhibited for domestic, regional and international markets during the National Agricultural Show held in July 2010 at Jinja, Uganda. The markets working group will continue participating in this activity by contributing to development of promotion materials, promotional activities and research interfacing users and breeding activities for the varieties. A review of the available promotional materials is being evaluated. In South Africa the commercial varieties which meet the sugar bean and canning bean market standards were under demonstration during the reporting period. In addition the southern highlands of Tanzania had demonstration plots of the recommended and client selected bean varieties which met the market requirements. Output 4.3: Strategies for promoting bean production for niche markets including organic beans developed and promoted P.I. #4.3: At least 5 integrated management options for use to meet organic bean production standards developed and promoted by 2011. Activity set# 4.3.1: Assess market potential and develop value added bean products (organic and other niche bean products) and crop management regimes for organic bean and link farmers to organic markets with partners. 4.3.1.1. Conduct market potential assessments for selected niche products in selected countries(Cameroon, KE, UG, ZA) Additional support for assess bean market dynamics - Fresh beans (Uganda) Scaling up A number of niche bean products have been identified: Uganda: Fresh beans are showing good market potential in parts of Uganda, in the west to south western Uganda. Characterization of the market and the market actors is to take place in the first half of the new project year, 2011/2012 as it did not take place as planned. Fresh beans are a fast growing product especially in urban areas. The attractiveness stems from short cooking time and freshness. A study to determine the best options for promoting this product. The niche products will be evaluated based on criteria such as the profitability and feasibility of the products in each country (2) Snap beans will be considered for Kenya: This is a highly commercial/export oriented bean product whose management options can be adapted to other PABRA countries. A study on management options for snap beans in Kenya is has been integrated into a new project, that PABRA is collaborating on with the Kenya’s national, bean programme. The national programme has planned the activity to take place from April 2011 when the new project is launched. Other niche products that will be assessed include organic beans in Uganda and beans targeted for canning in Rwanda. 4.3.1.2. Conduct participatory field trials on INM options for common bean involving farmers, researchers and traders for production of organic beans (Cameroon, UG, KE & RW) Trials are being carried out in Rwanda and southwest Uganda to explore potential for use of organic amendments 4.3.1.3. Validate on-farm evaluation of soil fertility and water management practices for organic bean production (Northern – TZ, Cameroon) Planting of alternate leguminous crops – (bean variety Jesca, chickpeas and lablab) after rice was evaluated for intensive land and water management in rice-legume production systems of northern Tanzania. A rice-based double cropping system involving the use of improved rice and bean varieties was validated and demonstrated at Mawemairo village - Babati district. 4.3.1.4. Regional Support by Marketing Specialist 34% time and Market consultants to achieve outcome 4 Market specialist continued to participate in the PABRA steering and staff meetings. The meetings included SABRN, and ECABREN steering committee meetings in Maputo and Bujumbura in the last year, respectively. Participated in a results based management training workshop conducted by CIDA to improve the current PABRA logic model and performance measurement framework. The adjustments are reflected in the markets outcome line. Support to national programmes through strengthening the market research work through the markets working group continued during the year. Training workshops were held to strengthen the research and data analysis capacity of the country markets team. The national markets teams were also supported to carry out bean markets research and generate research outputs through publications. A number of draft papers related to bean markets work were generated. This support will continue in the next year. Support is also given to the national bean programme coordinators in the preparation and implementation of markets work plans within the networks. Market activities are being scaled out from the initial countries that PABRA began with and especially to the west African region, which is showing good potential. Establishment of bean market platforms in different countries is a priority in the new year. The market specialist is thus supporting closer 40  working relationships with the private sector (grain associations and seed multiplication firms) for scaling out of the PABRA products. Key actors in the bean value chain that have been identified will be involved in establishing bean market platforms. In addition, network resource persons that can contribute to enhancing bean marketing work will be involved in the markets work in the new year. The market specialist will continue assessing the capacity needs of the lead market persons in respective countries to strengthen them as activities are being implemented. 4.3.1.5. Regional backup support Outcome 4 (ECABREN BREEDER 25% time and travel) Germplasm addressing the dry bean market classes has been increased in various nurseries, and is ready for distribution to interested partners in the network. Terms of reference for a backup person from SABRN are being prepared. 4.3.1.6. Regional Network Coordinators' support to outcome 4 (10% Staff time ECABREN, 10% staff time SABRN) The Network Coordinators made concerted efforts to strengthen the bean value chain, for instance through the engagement of diverse stakeholder and through participation in the development/ implementation of project proposals that have a strong marketing component. 4.3.1.7. Back-up research on bean disease resistance to provide networks with new resistant germplasm adapted to Africa [9% of time and operations for PABRA pathologist] The regional PABRA pathologist offered technical support through visits to partners, development of improvements plans and strategies in various network for a, supervision of students (Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya) and own strategic research focusing on developing varieties with market qualities but resistant to major diseases . Most of the popular commercial varieties are usually also very susceptible. He discussed partnership with COMESA in markets and are developing a partnership MoU 4.3.1.8 Regional Research Fellow to support outcome 4 (100% time , time , operations) An alternative mechanism was proposed to get support for the key efforts now largely involving survey and data management. This will be reviewed next year Total outcome4 Outcome #5 Diverse clientele of men and women end-users are using adapted and preferred bean varieties, environment stress management options, and micronutrients bean- based products through leveraging sustainable approaches for product production, delivery and information sharing Output 5.1: Seed systems and information for promoting production and supply of preferred dry bean & niche market varieties are widely available to diverse partners and end users (NARS, extension agents, farmers, farmer organizations, seed companies, agro-dealers) efficiently and sustainably P.I.#5.1: At least 3 seed production supply and information systems (2 types for each released variety) used among 50% of diverse partners and end users (50% being women) in all PABRA countries by 2011 Activity set# 5.1.1 Scale up and out seed to targeted potential end users using efficient seed delivery systems identified through comparative analysis of seed demand, production and delivery methods. 5.1.1.1 Increase/multiply foundation seeds (through diversified sources) for both formal and informal seed producers/partners in all countries with at least 2000kg for each released variety- (TLII - ET & KE) including drought tolerant varieties Additional support for ECABREN (DRC –E, DRC-W, Uganda, N- Tanzania, Madagascar, Sudan, Burundi, Rwanda) and WECABREN (Cameroon, Guinea, Togo). Scaling up Various NARS were supported to produce breeder and basic seed especially for newly released varieties, where over 250 tons of breeder/basic seed were produced in 14 countries. This amount of foundation seed is estimated to contribute to the generation of 4,654.5 tons of certified and farmer accepted quality seeds across countries. In Addition some countries with PABRA support are also increasingly mobilizing additional resources to multiply more seeds. For instance the government in Cameroon supported the NARS to produce 20 tons of newly released varieties. Similarly, the government of Rwanda also supported the NARS to produce 24 tons of foundation seed. In Madagascar, with the support from African Development Bank, NARS produced 18 tons of foundation seed. In some counties, the NARS have teamed up with the private sector to multiply foundation and certified seed e.g.; Demeter Agriculture Ltd In Malawi and Kenya Seed Co in Kenya. With PABRA and COMESA-ACTESA support, NARS and private sector in Burundi, Uganda , Zambia and Zimbabwe. Swaziland and Malawi are engaged in production of foundation seed targeting 65tons. Under TLII project, NARS in Kenya and Ethiopia managed to produce 97.3 and 8.9 tons of certified seed respectively. With PABRA and McKnight Foundation support NARS in Malawi, Mozambique and Southern Highlands of Tanzania produced 5. 9, 9.9 and 7. 7 tons of seed respectively. 41  5.1.1.2. Seed multiplication of micronutrient rich varieties by health partners (Nangina Kenya) and other countries Additional support for ECABREN (Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, DRC, N-Tanzania, Ethiopia) Scaling up Linked to 3.3.1.1 5.1.1.3. Conduct 3 regional seed business management (production, post harvest management and market) training of seed entrepreneurs involved in certified and non certified quality seeds - SA,LES,SWAZ,DRC,ZMBIA A regional training on seed production and delivery systems for Burundi, DRC-E and Rwanda was held in Burundi-Bujumbura in April 2010. The meeting was facilitated by a multidisciplinary team from PABRA and NARS colleagues from Uganda and Kenya. The meeting brought together Bean National Program teams, private seed suppliers, NGOs and GOs supporting seed production and supply. Personnel of the national seed service in the three countries attended the training, which included 20 participants from Burundi, 10 from Rwanda and 8 from DRC-East. Seed systems action plans were developed for each country. The workplan drawn by each country is being implemented. This has helped ISABU Bean Program to engage more with seed production and extension service providers (NGOs and farmers organizations e.g. CRS, Concern and CADAP with a membership of 50,000 households and private sector producers such Rugo farm) and more other partners have also joined e.g. IFDC. In total . The meeting also helped ISAR Bean Program to open up to new partners including Tubura in western and RWASECO in eastern Rwanda. INERA Mulungu engaged in partnership with diverse partners including religious communities which are now involved in bean seed production to serve local communities. As result of the Bujumbura meeting 5, 8 and 7 partners from Burundi DRC-east and Rwanda respectively have partnered with NARS. Another region meeting was held in Zambia and it brought together actors in bean seed value chain. Each country drew an action plan which set put up mechanisms to achieve national targets (households accessing seeds of improved varieties) by 2013. This meeting helped the three NARS to visualize their tasks ahead and to interact with partners who are instrumental in achieving impacts (seed companies, Farmers organizations and NGOs and traders). As result of the Zambia meeting, three and 2 more partners are engaged with NARS in Zambia and Zimbabwe respectively. PABRA/CIAT facilitated an experience sharing meeting organized by the Bean Seed Systems Project supported by McKnight foundation. The meeting held in Malawi /Lilongwe brought all McKnight supported projects in southern Africa and some representative from east Africa and West Africa. The workshop was attended by 32 participants. As result of the facilitation by PABRA seed systems specialist (Louise Sperling, Rowland Chirwa and Jean Claude), several elements and principles of PABRA seed systems were exposed to workshop participants and the McKnight foundation. Several projects supported by the McKnight got impressed by the impact of small packs, impact of decentralized seed systems including social certification. Several projects will use PABRA experiences in their seed systems activities 5.1.1.4. Assess the viability of community based seed producers in targeted countries (Sudan, ET-TLII). Additional support for Uganda, with due consideration to gender issues Scaling up Tools tested and adjusted by NARO bean programme Namulonge (NACRRI) and the survey was delayed till mid march (time of planting). The study targets areas where community based seed production (farmer and individuals) have been carried out namely South West and Eastern Highlands of Uganda, Central and Northern Uganda. 5.1.1.5. Assess bean seed quality of different production and supply options in targeted countries(ET,KE - TLII) The results of seed quality analysis (genetic, physical, physiological and phytosanitary) of seeds from diverse sources (farmers, traders and NARS and seed companies) in Kenya and Ethiopia indicated that there are not much evidence to suggest that seed from the informal sector is largely inferior in quality to that of the seed from the formal sector. For instance in Ethiopia about 89 % of seed samples tested meet the minimum prescribed seed standards (physical and genetic purity) Generally the results showed that farmers who are trained are able to keep good quality seeds with a good germination (86%) while seed from company was lower. No single fungal seed borne diseases were detected in the samples (after sorting). 5.1.1.6. Mainstream and carry out specific new action research on small seed packets and other seed marketing strategies in all ECABREN (ET, KE-TLII), SABRN (MCK - MWI, STZ) countries and WECABREN (Cameroon and Togo). Especially targeting women and resource constrained farmers. Additional support for ECABREN (DRC-E, Uganda , N-Tanzania, The Small Seed Pack Approach attempts to minimize the gap between farmer interest in seed of new varieties and the commercial potential for seed production and delivery. The strategy is based on the observation that farmers will pay a reasonable price for small amounts of seed of desired varieties. Several national bean research programs, in collaboration with PABRA and their decentralized partners (private seed companies, traders, NGOs) have now popularized the use of small seed pack sale in Africa. Under PABRA/TLII, Ethiopia and Kenya have sold 81,654 packs 42  Burundi, Rwanda) Scaling up to date. In addition, the same model is now being adopted by partners in Eastern Central Africa Bean Research Network (ECABREN/PABRA) with proven successes in Uganda, Southern Tanzania, Malawi and lately trials in DR Congo and Burundi. In Uganda, 861 seed producers were trained in good quality seed production, processing and marketing and the use of small seed packs. In northern Tanzania, farmers in Babati and Lushoto Districts were trained on QDS (Quality Declared Seed) production. Decentralized seed production and supply is going on in all the 9 ECABREN countries through support to individual or farmers’ groups producing bean seeds for local use. Large scale (centralized) seed production is also going on in Uganda (seed companies), Rwanda (RADA), Ethiopia (by ESE, NARS), Kenya (seed companies and KARI-Seed Unit). In Sudan, varieties Giza 3 and Mutwaki l were distributed at the main producing area (Berber) through a contract with the Arab Sudanese Seed Company (ASSCO). The total area grown by the two cultivars reached 60-70% of the area. Small amounts of seeds were also distributed to pioneer farmers in different areas. In Mulungu-DRC, INERA in collaboration with the NGO ―PABUǁ produced seed packed in bags of 200 g and 500 gr. More than 20 men and 50 women purchased seeds based on their choices. The proposed varieties were: -bush bean varieties (AFR 708; RWR10; Soya Fupi, BRB194, CODMLB 001; AND620; Hm21-7, and climbers were: AND10; G59/1-2; VCB81012; Nain de Kyondo. The bush types were preferred because of difficulties in finding stakes . In Malawi, about 400 tons of seeds supplied by Demeter Agricultural Ltd were packed in small size (2.0 kg) and the amount was supplied through 41 Farmers World and Agora shops across Malawi. Uyole Agriculture Research Institute in Southern Highlands of Tanzania packs 0.5 to 2 kg as start up to supply to farmers involved in Participatory Variety Selection (PVS) to jump start the seed supply of preferred variety (ies) . This initiative has also stimulate local entrepreneurs to packs small seed size targeting Nane 5.1.1.7. Characterize and determine the scale of current and potential client groups for seed-based technologies, for environmental management options and for nutritional bean based products in some countries (SABRN): new activity Bean production is primarily dominated by large scale farmers. Within the context of supporting emerging scale farmers and due to limited capacities to increase the bean production under large scale, there is a willingness from the Ministry of Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) to increase beans production under small scale farmers. A results of PABRA support 30 small scale farmers (about one hectare each ) have started planting beans. To review the progress, PABRA facilitated a decentralized a multi stakeholders/multi institutional workshop (held in the bean in Limpopo) with participation of grass root implementers (provincial teams), ARC-Grain Research Institute, farmers and Ministry of Agriculture officials. In 2011-2012, PABRA , ARC-GCI, the Limpopo Department of Agriculture will carry out a study to assess the bean production and use under small scale farming conditions. This will be done in collaboration with local university in Limpopo. Activity set#5.1.2 Expand information materials and media for different clientele, devise explicit demand creation strategies (including for invisible value-added traits) and mass produce relevant materials training manuals (all the while carefully monitoring who is being reached and where) . 5.1.2.1. Design and mass produce information materials for the new bean lines (1000 leaflets and 100posters) All the NARS PABRA partners received support to produce resource/information manuals for both variety and agronomic options especially farmers/users friendly languages (mainly local ones) . Uganda produced 6,000 leaflets and 4,000 posters for the popular old varieties as demand for them was high especially among seeds producers and stakeholders who wanted to have more information of the varieties being produced by farmer seed groups. In Zimbabwe, activities involved distribution of 1,000 variety leaflet, 200 Variety posters, and 700 bean recipe books. During the season, Zambia produced 1200 copies of a bean brochure and copies are under dissemination, some of which have been disseminated to Democratic Republic of Congo, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique while a few copies have been shared with PABRA staff. The brochure describes the link of the Zambia Bean Network to SABRN and PABRA, describes the released Bean varieties of Zambia, nutritive aspects of bean as well as the contacts for help in terms of seed requirements and market links. In Southern Tanzania ARI-Uyole produced and distributed about 6 00 leaflets on Integrated Crop Management and information on newly released bean varieties. Malawi produced several resource manuals (pest and disease control and new released varieties) n both Chichewa and Tumbuka Similarly, Ethiopia EIAR Melkassa in partnership with CRS-Ethiopia has translated /developed training manuals and 500 copies were supplied to government, cooperative and NGOs extension staff (500 copies) and also EIAR produced and supplied 2500 copies on variety information. SARI (Ethiopia) in collaboration with IPMS Project (Ethiopia) produced 500 copies of released varieties as information tool for use small pack approach. With support from PABRA-ISAR, Rwanda Agricultural Development Authority (RADA)- 43  agricultural extension arm of the Rwanda Government produced and supplied to partners 1000 Kinyarwanda copies of field advisory guide on the use of Integrated Crop Management (ICM) to increase bean productivity/utilization in Rwanda. Six hundred Swahili (copies) flyers of newly released varieties and the use of ICM guide were was also produced and disseminated to partners of Agricultural Research Institute (ARI) Uyole in Southern Highlands of Tanzania. Malawi also produced/supplied 100 Chichewa and Tumbuka copies of bean pest diseases in Malawi. In addition a video on small pack was produced, it has helped to expand the knowledge and application/use of small seed packs across PABRA countries (Burundi, DRC, Malawi and southern Tanzania) and other organizations are already progressively adopting the approach e.g. AGRA has made the use of small seed packs one of the conditions to grant eligibility. Bean Programme Uganda produced leaflets on variety information (NABE 4, 12C, 13 and 14): 6000 copies (4 major local languages in Uganda) and 2000 (English ). In addition 4000 post and 1000 calendars detailing bean production activities were supplied to seed producers. 5.1.2.2. Assess and compare effectiveness of variety and seed information materials and multiple media for different clientele e.g. field days for farmers and extension, variety catalogues for agro-dealers, TV, video clips and radio programs for exporters/traders - TLII and targeting women and poor restrained farmers Additional support for introducing use and translation small pack video into French (ECABREN: DRC-E), (SABRN DRC-S), (WECABREN: Cameroon) Scaling up A Small seed pack video has been produced and copies were distributed to PABRA partners (NARS and development partners). This video has helped to expand the use of small packs approach across countries and across crops. Beside Kenya and Ethiopia (original testing places), other countries e.g. DRC-East, Burundi, Malawi, southern Tanzania have also used the approach to expand the seeds to farmers mainly women. A new adjusted version which includes the experiences from these other countries will be released soon and translated into French for a wider audience mainly in west Africa region. The video has been very useful tools to engage also policy makers and development partners to understand and expand the seed access e.g. In Rwanda Ministry of agriculture will use to pack 0.5-2 kg supply bean seeds to farmers. The approach is also being used by KARI for newly released maize varieties. Radio programmes in local languages on bean production and utilization have been used in Rwanda, Burundi, DRC, Tanzania, Western Kenya and Malawi to advise farmers on Integrated Crop Management (ICM) and sources of seeds. These programmes have increased farmers and extension staff awareness about new varieties and techniques. Thereafter increase seed demands of new varieties. Radio announcements were used to prepare effectively seed fairs in Western Kenya. 2010-2011 was mainly to establish these different information channels (video, demos, field days, radio and TV, posters and flyers) and make them functional. The assessment will be carried in 2011-2011, Among the methods Since various channels are being used by different partners in dissemination of information this workshop will address the issue of which channel is best for which clientele 5.1.2.3. Carry out demonstrations and open days for released varieties targeting different clients. (Linked to outcome 4) Zimbabwe: A number of efforts were made during 2009/10 year to reach out to end-users through demonstrations. A number of approaches were adopted to reach different client groups, including participatory plant breeding (involving 12 farmer groups, each group with 20 people in six districts), on farm variety evaluation (involving 100 farmers in 6 districts), six variety demonstration plots, six field days, 8 agricultural shows and 1 trade fair, conservation agriculture in all 6 districts, trainings on use of pesticide in control of bean stem maggot and rust, and 2 TV shows on bean production. In Zambia, more than 20 demonstrations were established during the season in collaboration with the department of agriculture (Extension service) which reached more than 200 farmers. Bean varieties are now a common sight in most district Agricultural Shows in the country especially in bean growing areas. These varieties are also displayed at the 9 provincial shows that take place at all provincial centers, and finally they are displayed at the National Agricultural and Commercial show. Agricultural shows are able to reach as many as 500,000 farmers. During the year more than 10 field days were organized where bean varieties were observed by farmers. The reach using this method was about 1200 farmers. During a field day in Chipata, climbing beans were observed and this impressed the Conservation Farming Unit of the Zambia National farmers’ Union who are now seeking the varieties for their activities within the country. During the year the bean program was covered on National television 4 times (two on the Bean stakeholder Consultative workshop and 2 times for the Regional Bean seed systems Workshop). These created awareness on the bean Research for Development in Zambia. Also, a Radio News broadcast on the importance of high micronutrient dense beans (HMDB) was a headline on Community Radio Breeze in Chipata, Eastern Province of Zambia. This resulted in a lot of requests for the HMDB varieties from Msekera research station in Chipata. In Burundi, IFDC in collaboration with ISABU-Bean Programme ut IFDC (plot demonstration) : 1822 households reached with new variety during 2010 . IFDC works in partnership with several farmers organizations including UNICODE. Similar technology dissemination activities and public awareness campaigns were conducted in rallies such as Lesotho. Several demonstrations were deliberated sited across the five regions of the Southern Highlands of Tanzania in order to create 44  awareness on the use of ICM. 5.1.2.4.Hold national platform workshops to review seed systems research interventions/approaches PABRA facilitated a cross sectional (multi stakeholders) workshops in Zambia (15 participants) , Burundi (20 participants) , southern Tanzania (30 participants) , Malawi (60 participants) , DRC (15 participants) –Southern Ethiopia ( 16 participants) Ethiopia -EIAR Melkassa (75 participants ) and Kenya (32 participants) and Rwanda. The participants in the workshop interacted to solve bottlenecks along the bean value chains and how to link seed systems to bean output/ utilization/uses (market and nutrition). During the workshop, newly released varieties were exhibited to increase awareness of workshop participants. Traders/processors expressed interested in linking the bean production to farmers who can multiply marketable varieties. Already a processor Kubumwe in Rwanda with a processing capacity of 450 tons of ready to eat beans per month has started engaging farmers under contractual arrangements to produce specific varieties fitting in specific market. Farmers are being organized to improve on the quality of the products they deliver to the processors. In Ethiopia, among the workshop participants, they included also the officials from the Ethiopia Commodity Exchange (ECEX). It was an opportunity to expose to participants particularly farmers, traders and process to the regulations and processes/opportunities to sell through the ECEX. In Kenya, with increased farmers access to marketable bean varieties (Kat B1, KAT B9, KATX 56 and 69), their production has increased and for the moment, they are looking for marketer. Similarly in Southern Tanzania, as results of the workshop, some traders have started contracting farmers to produce specific marketable varieties 5.1.2.5 Identify key players in the snap bean value chain with the view to enhance interaction and exchange of information and skills amongst stakeholders on production, exporting, processing, and dissemination. (Linked to outcome 4) Linked to Outcome 4 (Activities 4.2.2.1 to 4.2.2.3) Output 5.2: Environment stress management products and processes are available with a diversity of rural service providers, through revising methods for creating demand and exploring novel methods for producing, and enhancing use of stress management options. P.I. #5.2: At least two viable stress management options are available through at least 50 rural based service providers in target zones by 2011. This will be partially accomplished through at least1 new approach for demand creation and 4 new sets of promotional materials. Activity set#5.2.1 Develop, differentiate (end user perceptions on) and scale up production, delivery of management options and co-learning methods for dealing with environmental stresses, with a focus on product and process use which is sustainable and equitable 5.2.1.1. Support the dissemination of widely existing ISFWM and IPDM technology options including indigenous knowledge of farmers 5.2.1.1.1. Support the wide dissemination of the existing ISFWM technology options including inorganic inoculants and other soil fertility amendments through partners such as agro-dealers Additional support for Kenya, Ethiopia, DRC, Uganda, N-Tanzania, Madagascar, Sudan, Burundi, Rwanda –SABRN: Zambia, DRC-S, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Swaziland, Angola –WECABRN: Cameroon Scaling up Effort to use mineral fertilizers on beans is going on in Rwanda by Government of Rwanda and NGOs. For instance, Tubura an International NGO operating in Western Rwanda in collaboration with ISAR bean program is widely testing the use of integrated soil fertility management (100 kg of DAP, 15 tons of Farm Yard Manure and seed of improved varieties (bush and climbers). The average (40 sites) yield of climbing beans double from 1.3/ha tons to 2.2 tons/ha while bush beans yield increased from 0.8 tons to 1.2tons. This confirms the high performance of improved varieties and the response of climbing beans to improved management conditions. A number of integrated crop/soil management technologies have been validated and demonstrated, including the use of DAP, organic manure, lime and the trellis system for climbing beans in eastern and central Africa. In the current growing season, ECABREN scientists and the coordinator have worked with the Government of Rwanda (on the invitation of the Minister of Agriculture) to produce instructional and promotional materials for the dissemination of the existing ISFWM technology options through partners such as agro- dealers. This initiative has the full backing of the government, which has subsidized fertilizers for beans to ensure that bean farmers use improved varieties along with recommended crop/soil management practices to boost productivity and incomes. Similar initiatives are 45  underway in countries such as Ethiopia. 5.2.1.1.2. Develop promotional and information tools together with agro- input dealers to enhance wider use of ISFWM and IPDM technologies Additional support for SABRN(Malawi, S-Tanzania , Zambia, DRC-S, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Lesotho, Swaziland, Angola) and WECABRN(Cameroon, Guinea, Togo) Scaling up A bean pest and disease identification and management manual has been approved for printing and is awaiting an ISSN number. Two thousand copies are planned for printing. “Robin Buruchara, Mukankusi Clare and Kwasi Ampofo. Pests and Diseases of Common Bean in Africa and their management in Africa. Handbooks for small scale seed producers. Hand book 4. Pan Africa Bean Research Alliance. Occasional Publication Series, No. 44. CIAT, Kampala, Uganda.” Output 5.3: Vulnerable groups and service providers have access to Micro nutrient dense bean based products through a diversity of partners and a combination of information outreach channels for promoting behavioural change. P.I#5.3: Nutritious products promoted through at least 3 information outreach channels for promoting behavioural change, at least 3 types of tailored information materials are available to a diversity of partners ( nutrition, health and humanitarian) involved in delivery of nutritious bean based products , by 2011 Activity set#5.3.1 Scale up and out the production, delivery and uptake of nutritious bean-based products and information to a diverse range of partners including devising explicit demand creation strategies for non visible traits (micro nutrient dense beans varieties and their nutritious products). Promotion of approaches will be based on a review and comparative analysis of PABRA nutrition and health experience. 5.3.1.1 Create awareness among consumers, pregnant women and children and other stakeholders in the country and specifically in the Northern Zone on various bean recipes, their nutritional and health advantages/benefits(N.TZ) Twenty-three new snap bean recipes were formulated, developed & pre-tested. A booklet of recipes has been published in English and Swahili and is being distributed widely. 5.3.1.2. Identify outreach channels for creating awareness among consumers, pregnant women, children and other stakeholders in the country New Activity Information and awareness creation is a key aspect of bridging the gap between technology development and delivery. In order for farmers to access and utilize micronutrient rich beans and products, we disseminated information about the existence and availability of micronutrient rich beans using various channels. These include; stake holder meetings in Malawi, Burundi, Ethiopia and Zambia, farmer field days in western Kenya and Uganda, radio programs in East DRC, seed exhibitions in Rwanda and Burundi, cooking demonstrations and participatory recipe development in Tanzania, Rwanda and Kenya. In Malawi PABRA supported a stakeholders meeting convened by University of Malawi-Bunda College. The meeting was attended by representatives from 13 organizations including the Ministry of Health-Nutrition section, University of Bunda Colleges-Nutrition Department and Ministry of Agriculture, agricultural extension services and several NGOs. An action plan was drawn for Nutritional campaigns, Training of trainers and training of communities in the areas of nutrition, production, post harvest management, variety management and integrated crop management techniques. In addition 50 kg of the each of the 2 newly released micronutrient rich bean varieties were supplied to organization like CRS for increase through farmers and groups. In Rwanda and Burundi, seed exhibitions to show case released and promising varieties. The exhibitions were attended by farmers, stakeholder s from organizations working with vulnerable groups and seed producers. Similar exhibitions were held in Western Kenya to sensitize organizations and extension services about the advantages of these varieties. Community development organizations in various countries were facilitated by PABRA to disseminate information on varieties and bean 46  seed to group members. In Kenya for example Nangina social work project worked with over 20 groups of women, faith based organizations, youth groups, widows and farmer groups to disseminate information and create awareness on micronutrient rich beans. This has increased the demand for these varieties owing to cooking demonstrations conducted at the community level by trainers and dissemination of bean recipes through 145 groups. In Uganda CEDO reached over 300 farmer groups with information and seed. 5.3.1.3. Assess the cooking quality (time and physical appearance), acceptability and other organoleptic qualities of pre-release or released bean varieties including MCR and micronutrient dense varieties with communities and consumers These activities were carried out in a number of countries as part of the germplasm selection process as well as during participatory variety selection (Linked with Outcomes 1, 3, and 4). We emphasize on this as it contributes towards reduction of fuel wood and directly contribute to environmental preservation. This also contributes in saving time spent by women and children in search of fuel wood. 5.3.1.4. Characterize micronutrient rich bean varieties (cooking qualities, agronomic management, organoleptic qualities) and publish extension information required for promoting these varieties New Activity In order to characterize micronutrient rich beans, several studies have been conducted in the past two years. These include studies on iron and zinc content of micronutrient rich bean lines, cooking qualities with and without pre-soaking, In-vitro and in vivo bio-availalability of micronutrients in beans, effect of cooking on micronutrient content (nutrient retention studies) and effect of cooking on inhibitors of micronutrient absorption in the beans. In 2009-2010 baseline content of iron and zinc in raw dry beans was established for over 60 micronutrient rich bean varieties selected from various PABRA countries. Studies were conducted in collaboration with Harvest Plus at ETH Zurich, University of Nairobi, Sokoinne University in Tanzania (SUA) and the Institute for Soil, Climate and Water, IRC in South Africa. The laboratories got significantly different figures on nutrient content of similar varieties. In 2010- 2011 all samples were collected and sent to the University of Adelaide for re-evaluation and verification. In collaboration with Harvest Plus, over 200 improved varieties were evaluated for micronutrient density. Iron content of new varieties range from 129ppm (highest level) to 44.6ppm (lowest) while zinc levels range from 47.6 ppm to 29.9ppm. Given the target of 90ppm for iron and 45ppm for zinc several improved varieties can make a difference in iron and zinc status of vulnerable communities. These include 6 varieties in Rwanda and DRC, 2 varieties in Ethiopia and Kenya, 3 varieties in Uganda and Tanzania and 1 variety in Zambia, Zimbabwe and Malawi. This information has been compiled into a list for use in various countries. Cooking time of beans is a major factor considered by farmers in variety selection. Cooking qualities of micronutrient rich beans were assessed by communities in various countries as reported in activity 3.3.1.4 above. Previously farmers spent a lot wood fuel cooking beans for four hours or more. The new micronutrient rich varieties cook for an average of 21/2 hours ranging from 1 and 11/2 to 3 hours. The white and cream varieties have the shortest cooking time ranging from 1 to 11/2 hours while the black, red and red mottled varieties cook for 2 to 3 hours. This is information is currently being compiled to be shared partners. A scientific manuscript has also been drafted for publication from this information. Preliminary results on invitro- bioavailability of micronutrient in beans were reported in the 2008-2009 PABRA report. Completed studies on In-vivo bioavailability of micronutrients in beans are reported under 3.3.1.3 above. Nutrient retention studies indicate significant stability of micronutrient in beans and significant reduction in micronutrient absorption inhibitors (polyphones - Tannins, phytates) after cooking. The retention rate for iron is 93.6% while the average retention rate for zinc is 97.4% after cooking. This information is detailed in the narrative report. Apart from developing 3 scientific papers, PABRA scientists are in the process of consolidating this information into a booklet that will 47  provide partners with simplified scientific evidence; information that is easy to use can be translated in to different languages to help partners identify micronutrient rich beans and provide useful characterization tips on varieties. Agronomic characteristic of varieties will be included. The book let will be completed in the next financial year. Output 5.4: Policy tools are developed and made available widely to shape development of efficient and equitable seed production and delivery systems, better management of environmental stresses, foster better nutrition and links to markets P.I.#5.4: At least 6 favorable policies tools/instruments supporting efficient and equitable seed systems, fostering better management of environmental stresses , for better nutrition and market linkages developed and planned for dissemination by 2011 Activity set#5.4.1 Linked to Activity set # 6.3.1 5.4.1.1. Develop policy document for increased access of high quality seeds in 2 countries (Kenya and Malawi) The seed quality analysis carried out by KARI (Kenya) and EIAR –Melkassa (Ethiopia) was complete in both Ethiopia and Kenya. It was proven that local seed systems produce and supply quality bean seeds in both countries. Using these results, PABRA supported, KARI and EIAR to engage the policy makers in the Ministry of Agriculture and development partners to support decentralized seed systems. A seed policy document about orphan crops (open pollinated varieties) was drafted in Kenya and already implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA). The seed policy changes in Kenya include shift from free seed supply to seed loan by Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) and partners. With the seed loan systems, beneficiary households pay twice of the amount loaned seeds to their neighbors. In Malawi, a cross legume policy document was developed and shared with policy makers, Thereafter a cross sectional grain legume policy workshop convened by CIAT was held to lobby the inclusion of grain legumes namely (beans, cowpea, pigeon pea and soybean) in the input subsidies programmes. 5.4.1.2. Additional support for Consultancy to support the work on seed systems in WECABREN New activity Early discussions were held with WECABREN team members and the work is to start early next April to coincide with next crop season particularly in Cameroon, Guinea, Togo and Central Africa Republic 5.4.1.3 Wide Impact Specialist :Supporting reaching end user systems Facilitated 9 NARS seed system workshops in Burundi, Zambia, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, South Africa, DRC –South, DRC –East and Malawi Backstopping Field visits in Burundi, Kenya, Ethiopia, Mozambique, Zambia, South Africa, Rwanda, North West Tanzania, DRC-South and East. Proposal writing: TLII-Phase II , ASARECA supported proposal, Extension of McKnight supported project, COMESA ACTESA- COMRAP will support 3 countries in seed production (200 tons of seeds /country), and Bionnovate (ILRI) supported targeting Burundi, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda and N-Tanzania ) Attended ECABRN, SABRN, WECABRN SC and contribute to the understanding of seed systems in context of PABRA Research on sustainability of public-private partnership in seed systems in Malawi , Kenya and Ethiopia Development of partnership between the Alliance of Commodity Trade in East and Southern Africa and PABRA and also facilitate the consolidation of partnership across PABRA countries Expand/mainstream the use of efficient seed systems e.g. small seed packs across 8 countries and support farm based seed systems. Help to shape the seed and bean crop policies in Rwanda, Kenya, Malawi and also seed harmonization trade across COMESA countries. 5.4.1.4 PDF Networks Breeder support - ECABREN, SABRN & WECABREN 30% The PDF Networks breeder worked with the PABRA pathologist and an entomologist Kwasi Ampofo to complete the pest and disease manual (5.2.1.1.2) and with the communication specialist and Design specialist to Proof read, improve on the design and initiate the printing process. Seed heath analysis (BCMV and bacterial diseases) of seed of four drought tolerant lines from Kenya. 5.4.1.5 Economist support to seed systems A cost-benefit study of farmer-based seed production was completed in 2010 using data collected from 20 farmers participating in seed multiplication of common beans in Nyanza and western regions of Kenya. An in-depth interview with each farmer provided the accurate data on all inputs and outputs from seed production. Farmer based seed production was found to be a profitable enterprise and less 48  sensitive to price fluctuations. A farmer can make about US$ 200-300 from one hectare in just two months by just engaging in seed multiplication without much change in the general management practices. With improved agronomic management profits are much higher. This information should be used to promote seed among farmers as well as inform policy on the farmer based seed production in the PABRA countries. 5.4.1.6 Marketing Economist support value chain actors in reaching end users In Uganda, enhanced capacity of value chain actors in the marketing of bean seed; (CEDO Seed Company) started operation in June 2010- they received training on business skills, innovative marketing and business strategic in March & May 2010. CEDO were able to sale 26,668 kgs bean seed between July & October 2010. Significant to mention was the adoption of small pack approach. CEDO sold 9,808 packs of 1kg & 2kgs. In Ethiopia, trained value actors (NARS, Private seed producers, NGO’s) in marketing of been seed in small packs. Partners in Ethiopia where able to sale 25,592 packs of bean seed in different pack sizes (200g, 500g & 1000g), an approach which has accelerated dissemination on new varieties especially in Hararghe and Sidama regions. In Rwanda, Burundi & DR Congo, a regional workshop was held May 2010- partners where trained on business skills. Backstopping of partners in Burundi. Value chain study was conducted in Burundi in August 2010; a draft report on small packs was shared in February to mainly to understand the role of value chain actors in Burundi and design appropriate interventions. Business skill training for SABREN countries was held in August 2010; support to partners on seed marketing through small packs is ongoing. 5.4.1.7 Research Associate support to seed systems An Agronomist/seed systems person has identified and position will be shared with IPDM/ISFM 5.4.1.8 Regional Network Coordinators' support to outcome 5 (10% Staff time ECABREN, 10% staff time SABRN) The new ECABREN coordinator supported NARS and partners through backstopping visits (e.g. to Tanzania, Ethiopia and Kenya), and in the development of proposals related to reaching end users. Fund-raising activities include a proposal submitted to BioInnovate involving the bean programs of Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Rwanda, and Burundi, which has been accepted pending revision, and a concept note proposal submitted to ASARECA (involving Burundi, DRC, Rwanda and Uganda), which has been approved for development of the full proposal Total outcome5 Outcome #6: PABRA partners have increased ability to respond to demands in the bean sector, and are utilizing generated knowledge to influence bean related national and regional policy and advocacy matters Output 6.1: PABRA and Networks are strengthened to exploit synergies, efficiencies, and accountability, in responding to demand in new areas P.I.#6.1: At least 2000 trainees in new areas (including nutrition, markets, policy, GIS, acute stress management) 60% application rate within the institutions, and at least 50% of trainees being women by 2012 Activity set#6.1.1 Develop strategies to increase knowledge and skills of NARS scientists, Private Public partners and farmer associations and promote institutionalization of skills, knowledge and approaches 6.1.1.1. Conduct training of trainers workshop in applied M&E, impact assessment in agricultural research with an emphasis on data analysis (for ECABREN & SABRN + participants from WECABREN to join) Additional support for a write shop for targeting of diffusion and social network analysis (for ECABREN, SABRN and WECABREN ) Scaling up Two workshops (2) were conducted in Kampala and Nairobi, and 19 and 24 participants from the networks were present, respectively. Eleven PABRA and IFPRI scientists facilitated the workshops. The workshop modules presented were in Social Network analysis which allows participants in several countries to map out the information flow for information related to monitoring while at the same time mapping key partner connections in the social network. The workshop model for bass modeling techniques was also introduced. This provided participants an opportunity to explore modeling options for projecting the diffusion of technologies in PABRA. Both of these approaches are being promoted in PABRA in this phase, the focus in this year is to introduce the concepts and principles and establish capacities within partners. A third workshop module focused on skills for data cleaning, entry and analysis using SAS software. 49  6.1.1.2. Support to participate in knowledge exchange in social network analysis, forecasting and prediction of diffusion and adopters at IFPRI - Addis Ababa for representatives from national programs in: ECABREN,SABRN & WECABREN Following training on social network analysis and forecasting of diffusion by scientists from IFPRI, requirements for data needed for modeling diffusion were determined. Data needs for the bass model were included in an ongoing study covering 5 countries and lead elsewhere in the PABRA. Data collection has been completed in Burundi and is ongoing in Rwanda, DR Congo, Cameroon, Zimbabwe, Kenya. Two software UCINET and market engineering were purchased for use in the analysis. Activity set#6.1.2 Assess bottlenecks and develop strategies for strengthening the functioning of PABRA and design , manage and institutionalize (with PABRA partners) use of Monitoring & Evaluation in PABRA networks 6.1.2.1 Undertake monitoring against developed PABRA tools and templates, support/set up system for tracking diffusion of new varieties and management technologies; determine reach for millions of beneficiaries (ECABREN 1500@ country; SABRN 1500@ Country; WECABREN @1500 per Country) link to 7.2.1.1 Monitoring templates were adapted for use at levels where results are generated and assembled. Templates were developed for outcome leaders for assembling regional progress and others for use by national research institutes which are the first point of generating outputs and outcomes– the research products/technologies. Data collection tools were also developed for use by partners of national research institutes, including farmers, seed companies, traders and NGOs. Visits were carried out to these countries to backstop the reporting and data collection using the developed templates. Eleven (11) countries made constructive progress in using the templates developed to monitor their activities and outputs. These are – Burundi, DR Congo (West), Malawi, northern and southern Tanzania, Rwanda, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Guinea Conakry, and Ethiopia. A report on outputs was developed and reviewed for its accuracy by outcome leaders and national bean coordinators who indicated that the results generated were incomplete in comparison to the expectations, and a more comprehensive approach for capturing the performance on output and outcome indicators was necessary. National partners implementing the PABRA program were ideally responsible for capturing progress on outputs. It was noted that this was not a problem area. The data capture for outcomes at levels of access was reviewed and a proposal was made to decentralize this level of data capture to outcome leaders and partners together. Based on the agreement that they were more knowledgeable of the actual progress on access indicators, In the reorganization, outcome leaders will work with partners to capture progress at output and outcome levels. The M&E unit at PABRA would provide leadership and oversight to ensure that the program was addressing its performance indicators and highlight where gaps existed. The M&E unit would also work with outcome leaders to provide information on intermediate outcomes where utilization is determined. The changes are expected to increase the quality of the information generated in PABRA and improve the knowledge base for the program. 6.1.2.2. Assess institutionalization consolidation of partnership for research, and for institutional delivery systems including multi stakeholder planning and review forums -Rwanda, Madagascar, Uganda, Burundi, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Mozambique, @ 4000 per site Under a study known as assessing institutionalization of M&E amongst PABRA partners, we reviewed M&E in 5 countries where Participatory monitoring and evaluation has been promoted in the years between 2004 and 2008, we believe that the assembly of these experiences will provide an understanding into institutionalization of approaches promoted in PABRA where PM&E is an example . Data collection for this study was carried out in Zambia, Uganda, Ethiopia and northern Tanzania pending western Kenya. The study reviews four areas, the existing capacity to perform M&E, the M&E practices, the social network of partners established around M&E and the extent to which the programs targeted in the study were organized to respond to their immediate environment. The field data collection is complete for four target countries, and results are expected to be generated thereafter. 6.1.2.3. Diffusion of improved varieties in Africa (A small project supported by Bioversity and BMGF). Additional support to complement the activity New activity DIIVA project activities for objective 1 established a comprehensive evidence-based overview of the performance of beans genetic improvement in 10 countries in both ECABREN and SABRN. Data was collected on varietal release, the scientific strength of NARS, the level of adoption, and the distribution of germplasm material that is transferred to NARS. This objective one relied on NARSs records and existing secondary information to collect release information. Diffusion information on individual varieties was collected through focus group discussions with 15 knowledgeable experts in each country. In focus groups an estimate of the area under individual varieties was obtained. This was the sole source of diffusion information used in a 2003 study documented in Evenson and Gollin, Experts also reviewed the area under beans for agro ecologies in each of the 10 countries, and updated bean production areas found in the1999 Wortman’s bean atlas. This Objective 1 provides a comprehensive update almost 10 years later on the two studies mentioned. We assume that this may well be the only available financially feasible means to create a comprehensive estimate on the use of improved crop varieties in Africa. Gap filling in the data collected is ongoing in several countries, thereafter analysis of results will begin and 50  documentation. 6.1.2.4. Conduct economic analysis of inputs for selected technologies and in selected countries; RW, Kenya, Zambia and Malawi IPDM options tested and identified in four countries (i.e. Kenya, Uganda, Malawi and Swaziland) as agronomically successful are being reviewed to identify a few that can be subjected to economic analysis. The protocol for the economic analysis is was developed, alongside the identification of sites in the selected countries. The protocol, among other things, describes the simple statistics to conduct cost and benefits analysis and more comprehensive regression methods to identify the contribution of IPDM to productivity and the economic benefits. Data sources and collection methods. Secondary data within CIAT data base has been explored and data collection tools to complement this data have also been drafted and are in the stage of being shared with other scientists for their contribution. Surveys were initiated and are going on. Output 6.2: A knowledge base and regional knowledge utilization forums are available to PABRA members and partners and are linked to NARS through a national Participatory monitoring & evaluation approach P.I. #6.2: At least one on line information & data management system in support of information proliferation in place, and 1 Knowledge sharing Tool kit utilized in regional forums and at least 80% of NARS partners are utilizing PM&E generated information to improve planning & decision making by 2011 Activity set#6.2.1 Establish and manage a knowledge and information database and promote its utilization (publications, information packages for different end users) 6.2.1.1. Update PABRA database ; supporting national programs to respond to database information Additional support for travel to backstop PABRA countries in M&E database management Scaling up The design of the PABRA database was reviewed by PABRA outcome leaders and contributions towards its improvement were assembled for integration in to the database. Databases for varieties released in the networks in the year 10 were added to the existing variety database. Additional information on partners was added and is continuously being updated to consolidate the partner database. A database on training that indicates trainings carried out in the networks, including lists of individuals trained was also consolidated. Several other smaller databases were initiated for volumes of seed bulked by partners and traded locally across selected countries where data was available. 6.2.1.2. Design of the PABRA Annual Report 2009/2010 The 2007-2008 Annual Report has been printed and copies are to be received by mid-March 2011. The 2008-2009 Annual Report is currently undergoing in-house editing, following the consolidation of the narrative and technical reports compiled by a consultant and reviews by the communication assistant. The production of the 2009-2010 Annual Report is at an advanced stage of production. 6.2.1.3. Revamp the PABRA Website to enhance interaction and availability of PABRA related information and add a second language [French] for WECABREN The software [Adobe Dreamweaver] was purchased and The sites are undergoing changes/editing of the content. The ECABREN site has since been re-opened and hyperlinked to the PABRA site, and acquired a new domain: www.ecabren.pabra.org. The sites have been redesigned and are being check before uploading. Identification of materials to be translated into French shall be done once the 4 websites are running 6.2.1.4. Assess communication needs in the networks for effective knowledge sharing at the Networks steering committee meetings Following interactions with the various country directors, Kenya has reported a need to reach a wider audience, and thus a radio program is scheduled to be aired in 2011-2012. 3 countries from SABRN: DRC South, Zambia and South Africa shared their potential impact areas for story development, which are currently being formulated. 6.2.1.5. Establish Media Relations and Publicity for PABRA PABRA was highlighted in the Zambian media during a seed systems training, in September for its efforts in the country’s agricultural sector. The end product of this was a video developed by the National Agricultural Information Services. The communication video mentioned below was to circulate to the media to showcase PABRA work, but will be done once it’s shot. 6.2.1.6. Develop a communication video on food baskets - linked to outcome3 A nutrition video was to be prepared for publicity through the media to show case the impact of bio-fortified beans on the nutrition status of children in Western Kenya, but the studies supporting this were not done, thus the video not shot. New sites for the shoot are currently being sourced and a short documentary on the impact of these beans will be developed in the coming year. The small pack video is being is modified to cover DRC and Malawi where work on small pack has extended 51  6.2.1.7. Facilitate a write-shop - capacity building of NARS in scientific writing Additional support for across net works Scaling up The write shop was conducted in February 2011. 6.2.1.8. Hold National Bean stakeholders meeting - (KE) . The initial objective was to review PABRA funded bean activities in Kenya and to support planning, coordination and implementation of the activities. This is necessary because various national research centers and national partners contribute to the bean work plan. And there is need to consolidate their contribution, improve the procedures for planning and to agree on the procedures for monitoring and reporting of the outputs/outcomes generated. The meeting was scheduled for October 2010 but has been postponed to 2011. Output 6.3: A strategy for influencing policy and advocacy in PABRA defined and promoted. P.I.#6.3: At least 3 PABRA countries engage policy advocacy groups to influence policy formulation that positively impact the bean sector by 2013 Activity set#6.3.1 Identify, analyze key gaps in existing agricultural seed, health, environmental stress policies which inhibit development of efficient and sustainable delivery systems and establish strategies to influence regulatory bodies and agricultural policy makers to address policy gaps. 6.3.1.1. Map out bean related policies where the national bean program has special advantages in and design strategies for promoting and engaging with policy makers regarding the identified policies in the country An assessment of the practice of influencing policy amongst partners and with partners was reviewed. Three strategies were observed (i) partners were involved in local policy advocacy work where through tools such as pamphlets, promotional materials, radio messages they were advocating for bean related products and services at the local and district levels. (ii) partners were also proactively engaging at the national level with key political persons such as ministers of agriculture to ensure that the positioning of the bean crop in the countries policy documents is maintained at the highest levels. Where this happened (Rwanda, Malawi, Ethiopia) the political environment became very favorable for the work on beans to continue. Partners were therefore involved in active interactions with the key politicians with this end in mind. (iii) Partners were also involved in active deliberations with regional blocks such as SADC, COMESA, and ACTESA. This provided the program with an opportunity to influence regional policies and scale up PABRA products, and services to participating regional blocks. 6.3.1.2. Resource Person for M&E Additional support for a Network resource person for M&E for WECABREN Scaling up A resource person was identified and a work plan developed , the contribution made is also supporting 6.1.2.2 6.3.1.3 Back-up research for economist support to development of impact, M&E tools The report is now available in CIAT getting ready for publication on the website. Two studies were also conducted in Kenya and Ethiopia in 2010 to track early adoption of new varieties disseminated in these countries between 2007 and 2009. Analysis of data has so far been completed for Kenya. Nearly 70 % of the 266 farmers interviewed in Kenya ranked the three new varieties (KATB1, KATB9, KATX56) higher than their local popular varieties. The superiority of the varieties comes from their relatively good consumption and early maturing attributes. 66-80% (depending on the variety) continued to grow the variety after the first trial, and 30% of the non participating sample had also started using the varieties, which is a sign of acceptability and high potential adoption. Improvements in future new varieties are required in the area of tolerance to drought to achieve higher impact on yield. Analysis by region also indicates that the country wide diffusion will be substantial. 6.3.1.4. Technical support in database management. An M&E officer was hired in the course of this period to provide technical assistance to activities in outcome 6 and assist in database management. Database on PABRA’s training activities has been developed in MS-ACCESS and is available. It contains all available data on trainings and workshops. A database on post- training feedback from trainees that facilitates assessment of clients satisfaction with trainings carried out has also been developed. A database for M&E data capture on the different outcomes has also been developed and is in use. 6.3.1.5. Backup research support for PM&E against research based management for PABRA program Technical and coordination support consisted of defining program achievements during the period under review, providing mechanisms and tools for partners to map out and measure progress towards expected outputs, and research to assess existing M&E methods and 52  practices in the PABRA network and partnerships. Technical support was also provided on information and knowledge management (IKM) to review the information and knowledge system in PABRA with the intent to inform ongoing formulation of a PABRA strategy on IKM. Support for policy mapping is a new initiative this year, where mapping took place to identify policy areas that PABRA and its partners can best influence. 6.3.1.6. Support for Information Management Data collection is ongoing to update the bean varieties and partners’ databases, which shall be posted on the website as information sources. Total outcome6 Outcome 7: Increased integration of gender and equality perspectives in implementation of PABRA research and development agenda. PI#7. At least 70% of PABRA’s women clients are benefiting from increased access to technologies, markets, nutrition and information Output 7.1 Women are effectively integrated in the development, selection, and delivery of productivity, marketing and nutritional and health technologies and information Activity Set # 7.1.1 Identify and implement strategies for integrating gender and ensuring women benefit from PABRA activities (technology development, dissemination, market development and policy) and analyze impacts of these strategies on women and on household welfare 7.1.1.1 Review PPB and gender work for the last 5years and define new strategic directions Additional support to include detailed analysis on nutrition, markets, seed systems, M &E and gender work for the last 5years Scaling up PPB review over last 10 years—in five top scientific journals completed. Gender appears in 0.7% of publications (less than 1 %) Full analysis of directions in progress (with PRGA). Formal publication being negotiated (Special Issue) with journal Experimental Agriculture. A review Paper on “Climate change and gender: what roles for agricultural research among the small farmers in Africa” was developed. A study is on-going in northern Tanzania and Kenya, focusing on varietal components in collaboration with a KARI (Kenya) gender specialist. 7.1.1.2. Conduct ex-ante evaluation of PABRA proposed technologies to characterize socio-cultural and economic implications on the adoption of the technologies in selected countries, including existing interventions, identification of gender disparities (baseline survey on gender analysis) New activity An extensive national study to assess the adoption and diffusion of climbing beans in Rwanda was designed and surveys are underway (started at the end of the growing season). The study is further to assess utilization of the varieties and people (men and women) level impact. Baseline studies were completed in Kenya and Ethiopia, with the key findings supporting PABRA’s approach of coordinated interventions along the value chain to achieve impact. The study also suggests that future variety development should target to address the problem of intermittent drought so as reduce yield loss. 7.1.1.3. Create gender awareness and appreciation among project implementers and key stakeholders (e.g. gender responsive messages and gender responsive mode of delivery as defined in the strategy) New activity (see 7.2.2.1) Output 7.2. Gender criteria are routinely used for the approval and funding of PABRA activities and related projects 53  Activity set # 7.2.1 Develop and monitor gendered criteria for the development and approval of PABRA related projects and country workplans 7.2.1.1 Continue to develop and implement gender considerate M+E tools (Linked to M&E and all other Outcomes activities) link to 6.2.1.1 Gendered M&E tools and methods for data capture were developed for use by PABRA partners. These were utilized by partners and gendered monitoring results were obtained. Link to 6.2.1. Activity set # 7.2.2 Identify capacity building needs and build capacity of PABRA country teams in gender analysis and integration of gender in projects design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation 7.2.2.1 Conduct training on gender analysis and mainstreaming for Steering Committee and NARS bean programs leaders and PABRA project leaders in SABRN and WECABREN (linked to SC meetings ) Additional support for training in SABRN Scaling up A gender workshop was conducted for the SABRN steering committee (SC) members during the SC meeting in Maputo, early October 2010. As a result of the gender training, the SC members developed a revised genderized frame work for SABRN, on which their 2010 annual work plan activities were based, and likewise they used the same gender criteria to develop the proposed 2011-12 country work plans. In number of for a, gendered efforts were made to integrate gender in activities and programs. This included the revised RBM training for PABRA staff and partners, IPDM and INM working groups Nutrition. 7.2.2.2 Conduct training on PPB including incorporation of novel methods advances WECABREN link to SC meeting and other trainings This was done during the 3rd week of March 2011 and involved contact persons of the 10 WECABREN countries. Output 7.3: Integration of women in research and decision-making bodies of PABRA increased PI # 7.3. At least 40 % of members in network steering committees are represented by qualified women by year 4 Activity set # 7.3.2 Identify and implement strategies for increasing women’s participation in the PABRA staffing and governance mechanisms 7.3.2.1.Continue to support Gender mainstreaming activities Additional support for a meeting to establishing a gender working group for enhancing capacity in gender analysis and mainstreaming Scaling up A genderized frame work for SABRN on which they will base their work plans for annual activities 2010/2011 has been developed. The same was done for ECABREN in Feb 2011. ECABREN Steering Committees made conscious efforts to integrated gender perspectives while developing Annual work plans. A similar approach was sued by SABRN and WECABREN. Support was given to initiate capacity building at country level on gender and its integration in national bean programs. This will be intensified in the coming year at various levels and fora. Total outcome7 Intra & Inter Network Strengthening Catalyze exchange of information and reporting within PABRA and facilitation of PABRA Program a. Network Steering Committee by network partners Additional support to include participation of new non-traditional members of the SC to address Gender consideration s Scaling up The SABRN SC meeting was held in October 2010. Deliberate effort was made to involve more women in SABRN SC. The decision to involved more women in this decision body was endorsed and a process to formalize is to be developed. The steering committee for WECABREN was held in November 2010, and the ECABREN one was done in January 2011. In addition the SABRN organized another steering committee meeting in March 2011 to develop the 2011-12 country annual work plan and budget. b. PABRA Steering Committee meeting Is planned for the last week of March 2011 in Burundi. c. Regional Network Coordinators to support and strengthen Partnerships that integrate network partners and achieve wide impact( 30% Staff time ECABREN, 30% tie SABRN, with support staff , office operations etc Arusha and Lilongwe) Additional support for travel and backup support - Scaling up The ECABREN coordinator provided technical and administrative support to all ECABREN and SABRN member countries. In ECABREN, apart from strengthening existing PABRA partnerships, new collaborative endeavors were initiated between PABRA and partners such as FAO Uganda/FAO Regional Office for East Africa (on climate change, value chains and seed systems), the University of Leeds (on seed biology) and The University of Cambridge (on virus-mediated host resistance to insect pests) d. Facilitate production of information sharing materials. Digitizing occasional publication was completed and a number printed. 54  Additional support for additional materials Scaling up A handbook for small scale seed producers has been developed and is currently being serialized, in preparation for printing. An impact document of work done in REU in the previous was developed, printed and is currently being circulated amongst partners. A similar document on the M & E results Two brochures on SABRN and on the nutrition Outcome are being prepared and will be completed by early 2011. The PABRA newsletter “Outlook” is set to be re-designed and shall be circulated in soft copy every quarter, as soon as the final design is ready e. PABRA coordination Kawanda office support staff and expenses , PABRA coordinator 40% staff time and travel Increase in travel and support – Additional support for PABRA facilitation Scaling up PABRA coordination continued to catalyzed interaction and activities within PABRA to foster linkages and efficient collaboration among networks. Areas emphasized on are linking and involving PABRA in the development of the second phase of TL-II project and where Gates again advised the project collaborators to consider the PABRA model across legumes; the development of CRPs on Legumes and in maintaining links to the Sub-Saharan Africa Challenge Programme (SSACP). PABRA offered bean technologies to the N2Fix project. PABRA and Network coordinators and a few Outcome leaders participated in SABRN, WECABREN and ECABREN SC meetings. Quarterly PABRA review meetings were held to consider progress of the PABRA program activities. The coordination also facilitated RBM training workshop by the Centre for Intercultural Learning (CIL) and supported by CIDA. The coordination also facilitated a number of workshops and training courses across the three networks. This included IPDM & ISFM working group meeting, the phenotyping and genotyping courses for WECABREN technicians and scientists. Linkages were also made to other CIAT programs and sub-regional organizations (ASARECA, CORAF and COMESA). ECABREN, SABRN and PABRA coordinators also met to review progress of PABRA activities. f. Regional Resource Person to WECABREN The two resource persons in WECABREN continued to support network activities. They also participated in a number of PABRA activities in ECABREN regions. Total Intra & Inter Network Strengthening