Makerere Researchers Develop New Soybean Variety Approved for Release

Makerere University College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) has announced that the National Variety Release Committee has officially approved a new soybean variety developed by the university’s Centre for Soybean Improvement and Development.

The newly approved variety, named Maksoy 7N, is expected to strengthen soybean production in Uganda due to its high performance, resilience, and market-friendly characteristics.

In a statement shared on Friday, Makerere University CAES said Maksoy 7N was developed by a research team led by Prof. Phinehas Tukamuhabwa, and praised the scientists for the milestone achievement.

“GOOD NEWS. The National Variety Release Committee has officially approved the newest soybean variety developed by the Makerere University Centre for Soybean Improvement and Development — Maksoy 7N,” the statement read.

Strong Performance and Disease Resistance

According to the college, Maksoy 7N demonstrated outstanding performance in multi-environment trials as well as on-farm participatory evaluations, indicating strong adaptability across different farming conditions.

The university highlighted that the variety shows excellent resistance to soybean rust, one of the most destructive diseases affecting soybean production.

In addition, Maksoy 7N reportedly possesses superior agronomic traits and seed characteristics preferred by the market, making it suitable not only for farmers but also for soybean processors.

Experts say the release of improved soybean varieties plays a key role in increasing productivity, improving household incomes, and supporting Uganda’s growing agro-processing sector.

Makerere University CAES congratulated the entire research team and expressed optimism that Maksoy 7N will contribute significantly to agricultural transformation and food security in the country.