Crop breeding and variety release systems remain largely focused on
national markets while seed markets are becoming increasingly
globalised. Breeding programs are also poorly staffed and under-funded
in relation to the number of each country s crop breeding
challenges. Studies and analyses were conducted and a synthesis is
presented to provide a scientific and economic justification for
improving the efficiency of crop breeding and variety registration for
sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) and millet (Eulisine indica) in southern
Africa. Geographic Information system (GIS) analyses was used to
delineate the region into 4 recommendation domains based on lengths of
growing periods. Multiple variety releases exemplify potential
adaptability of the varieties across country borders. Sequential
retrospective pattern analyses (SEQRET), using grain yield data from
Multi Environment Trials (METs) conducted over a span of 12 years,
stratified the 39 Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) test
sites into 6 groups according to their similarity of line-yield
differentiation. This provided an objective basis for selection of a
few representative benchmark test sites for future efficient
regionalized variety testing through the Lead NARS approach
of regionalized breeding for increased efficiency and cost
effectiveness. Mechanism for regional release to facilitate
farmers fast access to new improved varieties will address
constraints of small seed markets
