**6. Conclusion**

Successful genetic modification and application in complementarity with conventional population improvement techniques and advanced genomics and phenomics tools can contribute and accelerate the genetic gain in cassava, sweetpotato and yams compared to using conventional technique only. Genetic modification technology in root and tuber crops is transitioning from development to application. This has great potential in promoting industrialization of these crops and their immense contribution to food security. Some of the successes of transgenic technology include virus resistance, improved nutritional quality, improved starch yield and quality, reduced cyanide content in cassava, improved biomass, and delayed post-harvest physiology deterioration in storage roots. Based on existing literature, genome editing should be incorporated into the root and tuber improvement programmes and targeted traits should be decided in consultation with breeders. The ethics and regulation of genetically modified and gene-edited crops should be seriously considered in the application of these technologies.
