Maize Genomics and Genetics 2025, Vol.16, No.4, 167-181 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/mgg 176 Utilizing landraces and wild relatives is also crucial in introducing novel traits into commercial varieties. The genetic diversity of maize wild relatives provides a reservoir of tolerance to extreme conditions like drought and high salinity. With modern breeding techniques, these traits can be integrated into elite varieties without extensive backcrossing, making the process more efficient. This genetic reservoir is invaluable for developing new varieties capable of withstanding adverse environmental conditions (Kapazoglou et al., 2023). Advances in genomic selection and high-throughput phenotyping further enhance the ability to retain diversity while improving key traits. By utilizing genome-wide selection, breeders can maximize genetic gains and accelerate the breeding cycle, ensuring that high-yielding and stress-tolerant varieties reach farmers more rapidly. This approach is essential for scaling resilience-focused varieties to regions that are vulnerable to climate change, securing food supplies in areas facing the highest climate-related risks (Prasanna et al., 2020). 8 Socioeconomic Factors Affecting Maize Production 8.1 Impact of agricultural policies on maize production Agricultural policies have a profound influence on the productivity and profitability of maize farming. In Kenya, for instance, policies that promote access to inputs, credit, and agricultural extension services have positively influenced maize productivity. However, inconsistent policy implementation, bureaucratic hurdles, and instances of corruption limit these benefits for smallholder farmers. A study in Kenya emphasized the need for the government to streamline input distribution, reduce corruption, and improve infrastructure to enhance maize productivity. The study recommends targeted policy reforms to ensure timely distribution of inputs and the establishment of anti-corruption measures in the agricultural sector to reduce inefficiencies (Mogeni, 2019). In Ethiopia, market reforms aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity have created mixed outcomes. While the reforms provide opportunities for private sector involvement and enhance access to inputs, they also expose farmers to market volatility and high input prices, which can strain smallholder farmers' financial resources. Studies in Ethiopia indicate that smallholders benefit from policies that directly address economic and logistical barriers, such as subsidies for fertilizers and seeds, and the establishment of farmer cooperatives to lower input costs and transportation challenges (Mohammed, 2021). In Zambia, government programs like the Farmer Input Support Program (FISP) have sought to subsidize inputs and improve access to essential resources. However, studies show that, despite increased budgetary allocations, smallholder maize farmers often experience delays and inefficiencies in receiving inputs, impacting their planting timelines and yield potential. Policy recommendations include enhancing the transparency of these programs, reducing logistical inefficiencies, and engaging local farmer associations in the distribution process to ensure inputs reach farmers in a timely manner (Mumba and Edriss, 2018). 8.2 Access to agricultural inputs and its effect on maize growth Access to high-quality agricultural inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides is essential for increasing maize productivity. Studies have shown that in Ghana, limited access to quality inputs remains a key constraint for maize farmers, especially in rural and remote regions where high transportation costs and inadequate infrastructure exacerbate input costs. Research highlights that improving farmers' access to affordable credit and implementing input subsidy programs can significantly increase maize yields by enabling farmers to adopt improved seeds and fertilizers (Mohammed et al., 2019). In Ethiopia, the lack of access to agricultural finance and capital further limits smallholder farmers' ability to purchase necessary inputs. Studies show that farmers with non-farm income sources are better able to invest in agricultural inputs and achieve higher maize yields. This finding suggests that supporting smallholders through access to financial assistance, microcredit, and income diversification programs can help them overcome financial barriers to input access (Solomon et al., 2022). In Nigeria, the impact of input access on maize productivity is similarly constrained by high costs and inconsistent availability. Research in Nigeria finds that farmers' ability to acquire fertilizers, herbicides, and
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