Abstract:

The popular upland rice varieties currently grown in Uganda are from interspecific
crosses of African rice species Oryza glaberrima and Asian rice Oryza sativa called the
'New Rice for Africa' (NERICA). They are resistant to major biological constraints, but
show differential sensitivity to drought stress and have low aroma trait, which are the
major concerns of the Ugandan farmers. Area under rice production can increase and
local production can meet market demands if materials availed to farmers have preferred
traits such as aroma and tolerance to drought. This report focuses on work conducted
between the period 2004 and 2006, although bulking and evaluation of seed started in
2003, with the aim of testing for adaptation, and selecting for drought tolerance and
aromatic trait. First, on-station screening and multiplication of introductions was
conducted at the National Crops Resources Research Institute, Namulonge (NaCCRI).
Secondly, performance of promising materials was tested in multi-locations using
participatory approaches. Thirdly, grain quality traits were assessed with various
stakeholders. The fourth activity was to determine appropriate plant density and fertilizer
rates for the selected varieties. The fifth activity was screening and identification of
suitable herbicides for upland rice cultivation. Evaluation of the introductions was done
in partnership with farmers in four main districts namely Masindi, Iganga, Luweero and
Wakiso.