<p>Iron (Fe) deficiency is a major global health concern, affecting more than two billion people, primarily children and pregnant women. Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is linked to impaired cognitive development and reduced productivity. While, many different Fe supplements are available, they remain expensive and limited in availability. IDA is more prevalent in developing nations across Africa and Asia. where, maize (<i>Zea mays</i> L.) serves as a primary dietary staple. Although, significant progress has been made in conventional breeding strategies for enhanced kernel iron concentrations and bioavailability in maize. The genetic architecture complexity of these traits, makes it challenging. While, recent, advances in genomics tools led to the identification of novel regulatory genes responsible for Iron loading into the kernels without affecting yield. the new breeding strategies, offers promising genetic targets for developing Iron-rich maize (IRM). The global challenge of IDA requires sustainable and scalable solutions. This review highlights current research gaps and future directions for the development of IRM.</p>