Conservation and Utilization of Wheat Genetic Resources in Afghanistan Expanded with the Homecoming Wheat Landraces Collected Half a Century Ago
摘要
Afghan wheat genetic resources collected half a century ago are being revitalized under the SATREPS project and incorporated into modern agricultural research and development efforts. These genetic resources, including landraces collected by Dr. Hitoshi Kihara in 1955, are helping to address the challenges posed by climate change, political instability, and food insecurity. The project has established a shuttle breeding system, shortened breeding cycles, and enhanced the development of high-yielding, resilient wheat varieties. Cooperative efforts have also improved the conservation of genetic resources of important crops, with more than 4,000 accessions currently conserved in Afghanistan’s Genebank. Despite political changes, including the return of the Taliban to power in 2021, international cooperation and human resource development efforts have laid the foundation for sustainable wheat production. This chapter will explore the impact of these efforts on agricultural stability, recognize the importance of conserving genetic diversity, and highlight the need for continued support for research, infrastructure, and gender-inclusive approaches in the Afghan agrarian sector.