Abstract:

This technical visit is a follow-up to my visit in 2005 and coincides with the renewal of the East African membership in Camcore beginning in the second semester of 2008. Membership in the program is now sponsored by the Kilimo Trust. Mr. Benson Kanyi, Director, Tree Biotechnology Group, is the coordinator for East Africa and will serve on the Camcore Advisory Board. The private forestry sector has invested US $40 million dollars in Camcore since the inception of the program in 1980. East Africa, a new member in the program, has access to new technologies and the results generated by the Camcore membership during this 29-year period, for free. The technologies developed by the Camcore membership, if wisely adapted to local conditions, will promote the well-being of farmers and small landholders in the region. Already Camcore members in other countries have been in contact with Benson Kanyi on issues related to gennplasm exchange. Technical meetings and tree improvement short courses are now available to East African representatives in Camcore as part of their membership.