1a.Objectives (from AD-416)
To predict the quality of the Robusta coffee produced in Tanzania and Uganda by the genetic proportion of both local Robusta types-N'GANDA and ERECT- and their hybrids on farm, as revealed by molecular markers.

1b.Approach (from AD-416)
-The genetic diversity of the local Robusta population will be studied using DNA characterisation through molecular markers -Each studied genotype will be assessed for the quality of its production. Near Infra Red Spectrophotometer technique (NIRS) on green coffee beans will be use for this. -It is expected that a final comparison of the two sets of results will permit us to detect specific DNA sequences associated with a good level of quality.

3.Progress Report
This final report serves to document research conducted under a reimbursable agreement between ARS-BARC and the World Agro-Forestry Center (ICRAF), with cooperation from CIRAD-France. The aim of the project is to detect a link between the DNA content of Robusta genotypes in East Africa (Uganda & Tanzania) and the quality of the coffee they produce in terms of chemical contents and cup testing. The objectives are to: a) assess and characterize the genetic diversity of Robusta coffee in East Africa, b) detect the different types of Robusta coffee in the region, c) characterize the diversity using DNA signatures, d) explain at the DNA level the Robusta quality in East Africa, e) provide tools to accelerate the breeding process, and f) promote coffee quality in East Africa.

This project is based on an international partnership between the Coffee Research Institute in Uganda (CORI) for the implementation of the survey and DNA studies and quality assessment; CIRAD (Centre International de Recherche en Agronomie pour le Dévelopement) for the work on coffee DNA and quality; and ICRAF (World Agro forestry centre) for the overall coordination. The study was based upon the analysis of various samples differing in geographic origin (11 districts, Kawanda and Entebbe collections), and the assumed genotype (N’Ganda and Erect types, cultivated hybrids, wild population from preserved forest (Kibale forest)). For the first time, this study revealed the genetic diversity of the Ugandan C. canephora and its organization/structure at country level: 2 rather independent cultivated groups, Erecta and N’Ganda, their intermediate hybrids, and a separate wild type. This structure was correlated to results on bean quality including cup liquoring and chemical contents (from NIRS characterization). The later study also confirmed that bean quality is not only genotype dependent, but also environment dependent (geographic and time effects). These results have immediate consequence on the development on genetic studies and breeding program in Uganda. From these results, additional studies could focus on the identification of DNA sequences directly linked to the quality traits of the Erect and N’Ganda groups. They provide useful guidance for selection and breeding for quality. The results strongly suggest that a genetic resource conservation program could be initiated in Uganda to preserve and exploit the Kibale wild genotype. Other interesting applications concern the quality management of coffee production in Uganda and could directly concern both producers and traders: which genotype is best suited for certain environments and for which market.