The WorldVeg West and Central Africa – Coastal & Humid Regions team recently visited Malanville, a major vegetable production area (tomato, purple onion, cabbage, chili pepper) in north Benin on the Niger border. The dry season months of October-May (hot days and cool nights, low rainfall) favor tomato production, most of which is shipped to south Benin. Fruit firmness and shipping quality are critical features for varieties grown in this region.

The team reviewed an ongoing trial of 17 WorldVeg tomato lines with Nadia Tchabi, the student in charge of the trial.  WorldVeg lines CLN4018I, CLN2498D and CLN3938A showed good fruit set and the fruit quality was appreciated by local people; these lines may be considered for more extensive trials in the area.