Field Crop 2024, Vol.7, No.3, 124-133 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/fc 126 3.3 Precision agriculture and digital management Precision agriculture and digital management tools are transforming maize farming by optimizing resource use and improving crop management (Hua et al., 2019). These technologies include the use of GPS, remote sensing, and data analytics to monitor and manage field variability, ensuring efficient use of inputs such as water, fertilizers, and pesticides. By providing real-time data and predictive insights, precision agriculture helps farmers make informed decisions, ultimately enhancing productivity and sustainability (Grote et al., 2021). The adoption of these innovations, however, faces constraints such as access to seeds, finance, and education/training, which need to be addressed to fully realize their potential. In summary, modern advancements in maize production, encompassing agricultural technologies, genetic improvement, and precision agriculture, are crucial for enhancing global food security. These innovations not only improve the productivity and nutritional quality of maize but also ensure its sustainability and resilience in the face of environmental challenges (Ulrike et al., 2021). 4 Challenges in Maize Production and Consumption 4.1 Agronomic challenges Maize production faces several agronomic challenges that impact its yield and sustainability. One significant issue is the adverse effects of climate change, which threaten agricultural productivity through unpredictable weather patterns and increased incidences of pests and diseases (Ekpa et al., 2019). Additionally, land degradation and water scarcity are critical ecological drivers that impair maize production. Soil fertility decline and the presence of the striga weed further exacerbate these challenges, particularly in regions like Sub-Saharan Africa. Innovations in maize breeding, such as biofortification and the development of drought-resistant varieties, are essential to address these agronomic issues and improve overall productivity (Palacios-Rojas et al., 2020). 4.2 Economic and market challenges Economic and market challenges also play a significant role in maize production and consumption. Smallholder farmers, who are the primary producers of maize in many regions, often face financial constraints that limit their access to quality seeds, fertilizers, and other essential inputs (Grote et al., 2021). This economic barrier is compounded by the lack of access to education and training, which hinders the adoption of innovative farming practices. Furthermore, the market dynamics for maize are influenced by its dual role as a staple food and a key component in animal feed and biofuel production, leading to fluctuating demand and prices (Tanumihardjo et al., 2020). The negative perception of yellow maize as a "poor man's crop" and its association with food aid also affect its marketability and consumption, despite its superior nutritional value compared to white maize. 4.3 Social and political challenges Social and political factors significantly impact maize production and consumption. In many regions, maize is deeply embedded in cultural practices and dietary preferences, which can influence its acceptance and utilization4. For instance, the preference for white maize over yellow maize in some African countries is driven by cultural norms and misconceptions about its nutritional value (Aguk et al., 2021). Political instability and inadequate policy support further exacerbate these challenges by disrupting supply chains and limiting investment in agricultural research and infrastructure. Addressing these social and political challenges requires comprehensive educational campaigns to change perceptions about maize varieties and robust policy frameworks to support sustainable maize production and consumption (Aguk et al., 2021). By understanding and addressing these agronomic, economic, market, social, and political challenges, stakeholders can work towards enhancing maize production and consumption, thereby contributing to global food security (Li et al., 2017). 5 Environmental Impacts of Maize Production 5.1 Sustainable agricultural practices Sustainable agricultural practices are essential to mitigate the environmental impacts of maize production (Uffelmann et al., 2021). Aligning maize agro-food systems with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can support the production of nutritious maize while minimizing environmental degradation. Practices such as optimizing sowing windows and selecting appropriate cultivars can significantly enhance maize yields under varying climate conditions, thereby promoting sustainability (Figure 1) (Huang et al., 2020). Additionally,
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