Monsanto introduces new maize variety DKC 9053

Hybrid seed producer, Monsanto Malawi Limited, has introduced another seed variety DKC 9053 which is yet to hit the market.

The new seed has however already been tried by some farmers in the country.

The company's Sales and Marketing Officer for the South Denis Kachikho said DKC 9053 was distributed to some farmers across the country so that they get feedback on the crop before it hits the market next season.

"Involvement of farmers is always our priority and hence we had to distribute the new variety to over 400 farmers to use in their demonstration plots. What we want is their response as to how the variety is doing in the garden," said Kachikho.

He said the company is also working with the Ministry of Agriculture to promote the seed variety.

Kachikho also said that as an agricultural company, Monsanto is working with government in achieving the newly launched Economic Recovery Plan (ERP).

"As a member of the private sector, we are also contributing to the ERP by coming up with innovative means of making the country food secure. The more farmers produce, the more the country will export. Maize is one of the crops that have a ready market regionally hence we want farmers to produce more," he said.

Alice Mbali a farmer in Malila Bwana Village, Traditional Authority Kalembo in Balaka said the new seed variety is promising as it is early maturing.

She said the variety has also proved to be adapting to climate change.

"I planted the seed in November but though we had no rains for some time and then heavy rains followed the variety survived in both occasions. The stems are strong as well," said Mbali.

Monsanto produces maize seed varieties that include DKC 9089, DKC 8053, DKC 8033 and DKC 8073.