Agriculture, Vol. 15, Pages 2160: Linking Yield, Baking Quality, and Rheological Properties to Guide Sustainable Improvement of Rwandan Wheat Varieties
Agriculture doi: 10.3390/agriculture15202160
Authors:
Yves Theoneste Murindangabo
Trong Nghia Hoang
Innocent Habarurema
Petr Konvalina
Marguerite Niyibituronsa
Protegene Byukusenge
Protogene Mbasabire
Josine Uwihanganye
Roger Bwimba
Marie Grace Ntezimana
Dang Khoa Tran
Wheat is an important crop in Rwanda; however, rapid population growth, urbanization, and shifting dietary preferences have driven demand far beyond domestic production capacity, resulting in a steady increase in imports. Closing this gap requires a variety of management strategies that jointly optimise yield, processing quality, and sustainability. This study evaluated ten widely cultivated wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) varieties in Rwanda through an integrated assessment of grain yield, quality traits, and rheological properties. Yields ranged from 4.3 to 6.3 t ha−1, with Nyaruka and Gihundo achieving the highest productivity. Quality attributes, including protein content (PC), wet gluten (WG), gluten index (GI), falling number (FN), and Zeleny sedimentation value (ZSV), varied significantly, with Cyumba and Reberaho showing superior protein levels. Mixolab-based rheological analyses revealed marked diversity in dough development time, torque, and water absorption, with Keza and Nyangufi exhibiting favorable baking profiles. Statistical analyses highlighted trade-offs between yield and quality, as high-yielding varieties such as Nyaruka showed weaker baking characteristics. These findings demonstrate that linking agronomic performance with grain and dough quality traits provides a pathway towards targeted breeding, sustainable intensification, and enhanced food security. Integrating genetic selection with tailored management and processing strategies can improve both productivity and product value, strengthening the resilience and economic viability of Rwanda’s wheat sector.
Source link
Yves Theoneste Murindangabo www.mdpi.com
