If successful, it could lead to the development of other drought resistant-crops, including tomatoes and rice, she said. Genetically engineered crops will help Africa mitigate the effects of climate change, writes Steven E Cerier for the Genetic Literacy Project . With temperatures increasing by 0.5C over 2050 and predictions of 4C to 6C rises by 4C , corn yield losses could reach over 30% . As only 6% of Ugandan farmland is irrigated, other crops are also expected to suffer. Meanwhile, Africa 's population is set to grow from 1.3 billion to 2.5 billion by the last century , putting strain on food production. Technology such as drought and insect resistant crops or CRISPR -treated livestock less prone to disease could lessen the impact.
Genetically engineered crops will help Africa mitigate the effects of climate change, writes Steven E Cerier for the Genetic Literacy Project . With temperatures increasing by 0.5C over 2050 and predictions of 4C to 6C rises by 4C , corn yield losses could reach over 30% . As only 6% of Ugandan farmland is irrigated, other crops are also expected to suffer. Meanwhile, Africa 's population is set to grow from 1.3 billion to 2.5 billion by the last century , putting strain on food production. Technology such as drought and insect resistant crops or CRISPR -treated livestock less prone to disease could lessen the impact.