Delivering low glycaemic index (GI) pearl millet grains for the benefits of type-2 diabetics in African regions

Pearl millet is a drought hardy and sustainable cereal with superior glycaemic control over wheat and rice. The number of (type 2) mainly non-insulin dependent diabetics in African region is currently more than 25 million and rising, while in the UK it is estimated that 5 million people will have diabetes by 2025. It is estimated that for a low-income family in a country like India or Africa with a diabetic adult, as much as 25% of family income may be devoted to diabetes care. This project builds upon our earlier funded IUK projects where promising pearl millet hybrids combining lower glycaemic index (GI) and higher yield and mineral contents (such as Iron and Zinc) have been identified. In this project we will test these hybrids across 10 locations in western and eastern Africa and identify if any of these can be directly recommended for cultivation for the benefits of type-2 diabtics in these region. Availablilty of such seeds will enable small holders to produce grains with added health benefits providing them opportunities to trade their produce at higher prices, and also valuable raw material for the consumers and industries to make specialised functional food for the benefit of type-2 diabetics.