development of yams (Dioscorea rotundata, poir) in

In variety development, sensory evaluation is not only the most important hurdle after all the necessary agronomic characteristics have been developed but also a major determinant of acceptability of the variety, as well as a major determinant in the subsequent adoption and use of the variety. Eight yam genotypes out of thirty-six genotypes evaluated for yield, pest and disease tolerance and stability over a three year period, plus 3 farmers ’ checks were assessed on parameters such as enzymatic oxidation, colour attractiveness, aroma, taste, texture and overall acceptability in relation to farmers ’ checks (Dente, Brass and Dorban). Gender differences existed in the degree of perception of texture and taste of yams. KUP__2000/001 was the overall best genotype with respect to general acceptability in all agroecologies followed by TDr_89/02665, 2000/001, TDr_ _ 89/02660, TDr__95/19177, Dente, Brass, Dorban, TDr__95/01932, TDr__95/01544 and TDr__98/02877 in that order. The results of this study indicated that accessions KUP_2000/001, TDr_89/02665 and 2000/001 were the most preferred accessions with respect to sensory evaluation. After clearing this all important hurdle of sensory evaluation, genotypes KUP_2000/001, TDr_89/02665 and 2000/001 were release as varieties CRIPona, MankrongPona and CRIKukrupa respectively in 2005