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whole. For example, if a GM product released by the CRP is widely publicized in the international
press as being harmful, this could threaten the CRP as a whole, regardless of the true severity of the
problem. Mitigating approach: strong safety and control standards for product releases, coupled
with a steady and reliable communications function.
Evolution strategy for MAIZE
The challenges to maize food security and sustainable livelihoods in Africa, Asia and Latin America are
diverse and complex, and cannot be effectively addressed in a limited time span of six years (2011–
2016). Also, the available budget may impose a serious constraint, allowing work to reach only a limited
number of target clients/countries for various Strategic Initiatives proposed. Therefore, the “evolution
strategy” (a phrase better suited here than “exit strategy”) for MAIZE will be based on three major
components:
1. Dissemination of improved maize technologies in selected target countries/regions
2. Scaling up and out of methodologies and technologies beyond countries reached through MAIZE
Phase I (2011–2016)
3. Strengthening the knowledge base and capacity of local/regional institutions/professionals/change
agents/farmers
Dissemination of improved maize technologies in selected target countries/region. The products of
research undertaken through MAIZE will be disseminated through a wide range of research‐fordevelopment
partners (public and private), many of whom have had strong linkages with CIMMYT and
IITA in the past. Especially important will be the development of local innovation systems that focus the
comparative advantages of multiple stakeholder agents on knowledge development, and the generation
of more productive and sustainable farming systems in agricultural communities. Innovation systems
will be complemented by efforts to improve access to good quality seed by smallholder farmers in the
target countries of Africa, Asia and Latin America, especially through the private sector. MAIZE will also
put a strong emphasis on a consortium approach to support NARSs and SMEs in developing their own
proprietary inbreds, hybrids and OPVs.
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