Tanzania Ministry of Agriculture: Record Domestic Seed Production Achieved

Dar es Salaam — Recent statistics from Tanzania's Ministry of Agriculture for the 2023/2024 season reveal a significant shift in seed production and utilization. Between 78.6% and 81% of seeds, totaling approximately 71,356 tonnes, are now produced domestically. This marks a considerable increase from previous years, reflecting the country's efforts to promote local seed systems and reduce reliance on imported seeds. Conversely, seeds imported from outside Tanzania account for roughly 19% to 21.4%. This dependency on external sources has historically posed risks to food security, especially given the vulnerabilities associated with global supply chains. The rising domestic seed production indicates a strategic move toward self-sufficiency, empowering local farmers and fostering sustainable agricultural practices. An important aspect of Tanzania's seed landscape is the dominance of smallholder farmers in seed production. Reports show that between 60% and 95% of locally used seeds derive from small-scale farmers operating within informal systems. These seeds are typically locally adapted and passed through farmer-to-farmer exchanges or sold at local markets. Follow us on WhatsApp | LinkedIn for the latest headlines Despite this, formal adoption of improved seeds remains relatively low. The 2011 Agricultural Sector Development Program (ASDP) report indicated that only 19.5% of Tanzanian households used improved, certified seeds. The majority, roughly 78% to 90%, still rely heavily on indigenous or traditional seeds, which are often more resilient and environmentally friendly. Promoting indigenous and farmer-generated seeds Several stakeholders have recognized the value of indigenous seeds, emphasizing their safety for the environment, soil health, and human well-being. Efforts are underway by various organizations to promote the use of local seeds, which are better adapted to local conditions and often more resistant to pests and climate variability. Abdallah Mkindi, Coordinator of the Tanzania Alliance for Biodiversity (TABIO), explains that local and African stakeholders are actively advocating for indigenous seeds. Through collaboration with the Seed Working Group (SWG) and partnerships with organizations such as the International Organisation for Peace (IDP), PELUM Tanzania, Tanzania Organic Agriculture Movement (TOAM), Tanzania Gender Networking Programme (TGNP), Tanzania Small-Scale Farmers' Forum (SHIWAKUTA), and Sustainable Agriculture Tanzania (SAT), they are accelerating farmers' access to and use of local seeds. Regional and continental efforts for food sovereignty On the continental level, Tanzania actively participates in the Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa (AFSA). This network comprises 41 member organizations operating across 50 African countries, reaching an estimated 200 million people. AFSA's primary goal is to promote food sovereignty and agroecology, empowering Africans to define their food systems using their seeds, land, and traditional knowledge. AFSA's mission emphasizes fighting dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, promoting organic farming practices that conserve soil and enhance biodiversity. The organization advocates for farmers' seed rights, opposing the spread of modern seeds that restrict farmers' ability to save and reuse seeds freely. It also champions policies that protect smallholder farmers, pastoralists, indigenous peoples, and local communities. AFSA actively engages in policy advocacy, lobbying governments and the African Union to support agroecology and seed sovereignty initiatives. One of its significant focuses is ensuring that climate finance reaches smallholder farmers, enabling them to adopt resilient farming practices and local solutions amid climate change challenges. Mkindi highlights that AFSA's rallying cry, "Our Africa, Our Agriculture," has enabled Tanzanian organizations like TABIO to reach farmers across regions such as Mtwara, Lindi, Mbeya, Songwe