An increase in production potential by developing varieties that are high and stable in yield can contribute significantly towards alleviating hunger and food insecurity. The capacity to use plant genetic resources sustainably for food and agriculture by producing improved varieties is directly dependent on the national capacity to carry out plant breeding programs, including using biotechnology tools when appropriate. To optimize investment in plant breeding and to create awareness on needs and constraints in this area, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is facilitating a global assessment of national plant breeding and biotechnology capacity. As the first step in the assessment process FAO has selected a group of eastern and southern African countries, aiming to strengthen their capacities. A survey was conducted in six countries (Angola, Kenya, Mozambique, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe). The main questions asked related to the number of breeders and biotechnologists working in public and private sectors, and their level of training. The period covered by the survey was from 1985 to 2001, to assess trends. The preliminary data suggest that in all countries except Angola the number of breeders has increased. In Zimbabwe the number went up by 255% (from 9 in 1985 to 32 in 2001), Mozambique by 180% (from 10 to 28), Kenya by 33% (from 39 to 52), Uganda by 30% (from 33 to 43) and Zambia by 30% (from 20 to 26). In 1985, none of these countries had biotechnologists, but in 2001 there were 14 in Uganda, 13 in Zimbabwe, 6 in Kenya, 2 in Angola, 1 in Mozambique and none reported in Zambia. However, the training of these professionals is predominantly at bachelor level, except in Uganda where 58% have PhDs and Kenya 35%. Most of these breeders are able to perform only simple breeding tasks such as line evaluation. For a limited number of crops, such as maize, there is a full breeding program in all countries except Angola. Preliminary data suggest that local breeding programs are poorly funded, which limits the potential impact of the investment in human resource training. In conclusion, building human capacity in plant breeding, including biotechnology that can enhance crop improvement, is gaining ground in eastern and southern Africa, but more training at MSc and PhD levels is needed in most countries. The low level of operational support for national efforts needs addressing and national investment is critical. International support would likely enable national programs to adopt new technologies and approaches.