ABSTRACT
Sorghum, Sorghum bicolor (1.) Moench, is cultivated in tropical as well as temperate countries. In 1995, it was cultivated on over 43 million ha and the global production was more than 54 million t (FAO, 1995). It is the fifth most important cereal in the world, after wheat, rice, maize, and barley. Despite the growing importance of rice and maize, sorghum remains an essential element of human nutrition for several countries in Africa (Sudan, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Rwanda, Chad, and Cameroon) and Asia (India and China). In 1995, the production of sorghum grain was more than 16 million t in Africa and 15 million t in Asia. The grains are made into flour and consumed as porridge or pancakes. Certain better-adapted varietal types are used in making beer, sweets, or popcorn.
