Small scale SP farming in Mozambique is rain dependent. These farmers rely on SP for carbohydrates and income generation. However, their yields are low subject to drought stress, pest and disease, poor soils and varieties.  Though SP are more drought tolerant compared to other crops, extended dry seasons adversely affect growth, yields and root quality. This presentation demonstrates how to identify SP with desirable traits. Field trial under different stress condition with good agronomic practices and selection of drought tolerant varieties reveals the local varieties to have low β-carotene.