- → CIMMYT's germplasm bank identified 35 native maize accessions linked to communities in the Montaña de Guerrero displaced by violence.
- → Seeds will be multiplied and characterized at INIFAP facilities in Iguala during the 2026-2027 autumn-winter cycle, aiming for planting by spring-summer 2027.
- → The initiative, led by Mexico's agriculture ministry with CIMMYT and INIFAP, uses Farmer Field Schools to reconnect seed recovery with local production capacity.
On World Food Day, Mexico's Secretariat of Agriculture and Rural Development (AGRICULTURA), CIMMYT and INIFAP announced the rematriation of 35 native maize accessions to communities in the Montaña region of Guerrero, according to CIMMYT.
Forced displacement due to violence had pushed families out of their homes and fields, interrupting agricultural cycles and causing the loss of seeds tied to local diets, knowledge and livelihoods, CIMMYT reports. As some families begin returning, accessing seeds linked to their territories has become a central challenge.
Tracing seeds back to their origin
At AGRICULTURA's request, CIMMYT specialists used geographic information and historical seed records to locate accessions collected near Zapotitlán, Huitzapula, Teticic and Atzacoaloya, paying close attention to the grain races and colors required by the communities, the outlet explains.
Each accession retains data on its origin and traits, which CIMMYT says is essential for identification, multiplication and validation before the seeds are returned to farmers.
From germplasm bank to the field
The seeds will now be multiplied and characterized at INIFAP facilities in Iguala, Guerrero, during the 2026-2027 autumn-winter cycle, with the goal of having materials ready for the 2027 spring-summer planting season, according to CIMMYT. Their reintroduction will rely on Farmer Field Schools to link seed recovery with local production capacity.
CIMMYT frames the case as an example of how its germplasm bank, established in Mexico, can help recover genetic materials lost to conflict or extreme climate events, supporting the country's food security and sovereignty priorities as the center of origin of maize.
Verified source: CIMMYT. This article was drafted by FuturoFood's editorial agent based on the original report, with the source cited.