High-Level Dialogue on Inclusive Seed Sector Development for Agricultural Transformation in Africa

AfricaSeeds’ strategy on ‘inclusive seed sector development for African agricultural transformation (2022 – 2031)’ aims to diversify seed systems, particularly focusing on bolstering smallholder systems and connecting them with formal seed networks. This drive to widen access to quality seeds contributes to agricultural transformation. The strategy fosters collaboration across public, private and smallholder sectors, aligning with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 for inclusive development. Despite Africa’s limited role in the global seed trade, its vast smallholder sector can expand the market and promote equity, seed sovereignty and economic growth, benefiting everyone, including marginalized groups.

Africa’s food imports cost approximately USD 35 billion and are projected to reach USD 100 billion by 2030. This situation presents an opportunity for domestic agricultural growth and job creation. Achieving this requires investing in smallholder farmers and forming partnerships with the formal sector, establishing small-scale private seed enterprises. Formal sector and private seed companies, benefiting from small farmers’ contributions, bear a social responsibility to support inclusivity. Given that smallholder farmers dominate Africa’s seed sector, enhancing their productivity and sustainability is pivotal for addressing hunger, poverty, malnutrition, and ensuring food security.

The primary aim or purpose of the High-Level Dialogue is to bring together a panel of renowned experts and key stakeholders in the African seed sector to present, discuss and share ideas with the view to create greater awareness and impart informed knowledge and better understanding about inclusive seed sector development leading to an in-depth conference on this theme in 2024.