AGRA, through its Center of Excellence for Seed Systems in Africa (CESSA) has brought together industry stakeholders to discuss the strengthening seed systems across the continent.
During the meeting at Kampala Serena Hotel, stakeholders including seed companies, regulators, distributors, farmers, agro-dealers, NARS researchers, government representatives, farmers’ organizations, development partners, and One CGIAR representatives sat together to discuss challenges faced by seed systems.
“We have invested heavily in agriculture systems across Africa, with a particular focus on seeds as a key driver for agriculture transformation. AGRA’s support for seed companies, for instance, has resulted in improved seed varieties, with the resultant gain in harvests. Drought-resistant and climate-smart seed varieties contribute to resilience in the face of climate change, helping to safeguard food production,” said Dr George Bigirwa, Director CESSA at AGRA.
The event brought together seed stakeholders from AGRA focus countries, including Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Mali, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia, to exchange knowledge , strengthen partnerships, and share innovative solutions to the challenges facing seed systems in these countries.
“Enhanced crop productivity and increased climate resilience contributes to overall food security. Research has shown that in Tanzania, adoption of improved sorghum seeds has a positive effect on household dietary diversity score, a proxy of food security and general welfare,” Bigirwa said.
“Drought-resistant and climate-smart seed varieties contribute to resilience in the face of climate change, helping to safeguard food production. Drought tolerant maize varieties can contribute to 26-47% yield increase compared other commercial maize varieties, therefore this meeting is critical to sensitize stakeholder on the achievements and next steps.”
Officials said the event was informed by the need to guide and expose local entrepreneurs to new trends and innovations in the seed industry.
