Maize Biofortification Approaches for Fighting Malnutrition in Sub-Saharan Africa

Maize is a staple food in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA); however, commonly used maize varieties are deficient in essential nutrients, including lysine, tryptophan, vitamin A, and minerals such as iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn). As a result, millions of people in this region suffer from one or more nutrient deficiencies that commonly lead to malnutrition-related diseases. Especially children and nursing mothers are seriously affected. Over 32% of children under 5 years of age are stunted, and 37% of women aged 15-49 years are affected by anemia in SSA. These indicate that the severity of malnutrition remains high in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), underscoring the need for further work to address this issue. Industrial fortification, clinical supplementation, dietary diversification, and biofortification are strategies to combat malnutrition. Biofortification is one of the most effective and economically viable strategies for improving nutrition in LMICs. However, easily accessing biofortified maize varieties, lack of awareness about the nutritional benefits of biofortified maize among smallholder farmers and consumers, as well as the inadequate availability of biofortified germplasm are some of them among several challenges in SSA. Hence, this review paper focuses on the impact of essential nutrient deficiencies, strategies to combat malnutrition and the techniques to be employed for maize biofortification. It also discusses the challenges faced and offers recommendations for researchers, seed producers, farmers, and policymakers about biofortified maize varieties.