Achieving Polygenic Resistance in Maize ( <scp> <i>Zea mays</i> </scp> L.) for <scp> <i>Striga</i> </scp> Control in Africa: A Review

ABSTRACT Striga hermonthica (Del.) Benth is the most destructive parasitic weed affecting maize production in sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA), posing a significant threat to the livelihoods and food security of millions of smallholder farmers. In response to this, a breeding programme at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture has prioritized the development of polygenic resistance to Striga parasitism as a vital strategy for stabilizing maize productivity in parasite‐endemic regions of SSA. This review offers a comprehensive historical overview of the evolution of breeding approaches for maize, driven by insights into the population genetic structure of the parasite, the establishment of effective phenotyping protocols that apply severe selection pressure, the systematic utilization of diverse genetic resources for resistance, the adoption of molecular tools, and the continuous refinement of breeding schemes aimed at enhancing performance. The effectiveness of these schemes is clearly demonstrated by the consistent resistance reactions of diverse maize germplasm across various growing conditions and parasite populations, the cross‐resistance of maize germplasm to both S. hermonthica and Striga asiatica , the presence of diverse resistance mechanisms, significant annual yield gains under Striga infestation, and the compatibility of resistant varieties and hybrids with other control options. This integrative breeding framework illustrates how sustained trait stacking can effectively address the simultaneous presence of parasite infestations, frequent droughts, and elevated temperatures resulting from climate change in tropical production systems. Therefore, this review provides valuable insights into the evolving breeding strategies essential for the future development of maize varieties characterized by superior agronomic performance, enhanced resistance to Striga , and resilience against other environmental stresses.