Mandela tomato from CapGen Seeds: Commercial success in North Africa

The Mandela tomato is gaining significant popularity in North Africa, especially in countries such as Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia where it has experienced a significant increase in demand. Due to its adaptability to climatic conditions in the MENA region, together with its high disease resistance and reduced dependence on nitrogen fertilisers, it has become an option for local farmers to consider. Its ability to maintain high yields and good fruit quality under conditions of lower fertilisation has strongly boosted its commercialisation, consolidating its presence in these markets.

INNOVATION IN SUSTAINABILITY WITH LOW NITROGEN FROM CAPGEN SEEDS

In line with new policies that advocate more sustainable agriculture, CapGen Seeds has spent the last few years developing several lines of research including ‘LOW NITROGEN’ in tomato. This initiative aims to find the perfect balance between high yields, quality fruit and reduced use of nitrogen fertilisers. In 2023, we announced that the Mandela F1 tomato variety maintained exceptional yields even with a 30% reduction in nitrogen fertiliser use compared to other varieties in the same segment. These results, obtained through rigorous studies at the Agadir research centre, are a testament to the company’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.

‘The Mandela tomato is redefining the agricultural landscape in North Africa. Its success is not only measured in terms of popularity and demand, but also in its contribution to sustainability and reduced environmental impact. Thanks to the vision and dedication of CapGen Seeds, this variety has become a symbol of innovation and progress, proving that it is possible to combine high productivity with responsible and sustainable practices,’ says Rafael Cremades, CEO of CapGen Seeds.

KEYS TO ITS SUCCESS: ADAPTABILITY AND RESILIENCE

The ability of the Mandela tomato to thrive in demanding conditions, maintaining high quality and yield with less fertilisation has been a decisive factor in its mass adoption by farmers. Reduced reliance on nitrogen fertiliser not only reduces costs, but also promotes more sustainable farming practices.

COMMITMENT TO A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

The successful commercialisation of the Mandela tomato is not only an economic achievement, but also an important step towards more environmentally friendly and sustainable agriculture. By reducing some reliance on nitrogen fertilisers, it reduces environmental impact and promotes a more responsible use of resources. This approach is aligned with new global policies advocating sustainable agricultural practices, making the Mandela variety a turning point towards a more environmentally friendly future.