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ABSTRACTQuality seed is one of the most important farm inputs. The Ituri province, in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), faces enormous challenges in implementing a coherent formal seed sector, an essential gage for seed quality. This study aimed at diagnosing the Ituri seed value chain to propose improvements at all levels. Data collection was conducted using focus group discussions and direct interviews with key players at all levels, household surveys across the province, and a review of seed intervention programme reports, farm visit reports and other literature. Results showed that the seed system in the northeastern DRC is mainly informal due to several socioeconomic and technical factors. Less than a third of crops in the region had a formal seed delivery system. The cash flow in the seed sector was high owing to high seed demands from humanitarian organizations and farmer support structures, estimated at ∼1.5 million US$ in 2022 for the top three commercial seed commodities (common beans, maize and peanuts). However, the province seed production capacity through formal pathway is low (only ∼35 and 69% of the demands for common bean and maize, respectively, are covered by local productions), meaning that the seed demand is met either through importation or fraudulent conversion of farmer-saved seed. Due to lack of technical capacities, Ituri seed multipliers mainly produce open pollinated and synthetic varieties, while hybrids are imported from neighbouring countries. The lack of functional breeders in the provincial seed production chain, disproportionately low seed multipliers-to-distributors ratio, the weakness of the seed certification and regulation services, the border porosity, poor coordination among actors, and low awareness of farmers on seed qualities and advantages of using certified quality seed are the main structural and functional factors hindering the well-functioning of northeastern DRC seed system. This study provided an insight on the characteristics, stakeholders and challenges facing the seed sector in northeastern DRC and proposed an action plan for its improvement.

Quality seed is one of the most important farm inputs. The Ituri province, in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), faces enormous challenges in implementing a coherent formal seed sector, an essential gage for seed quality. This study aimed at diagnosing the Ituri seed value chain to propose improvements at all levels. Data collection was conducted using focus group discussions and direct interviews with key players at all levels, household surveys across the province, and a review of seed intervention programme reports, farm visit reports and other literature. Results showed that the seed system in the northeastern DRC is mainly informal due to several socioeconomic and technical factors. Less than a third of crops in the region had a formal seed delivery system. The cash flow in the seed sector was high owing to high seed demands from humanitarian organizations and farmer support structures, estimated at ∼1.5 million US$ in 2022 for the top three commercial seed commodities (common beans, maize and peanuts). However, the province seed production capacity through formal pathway is low (only ∼35 and 69% of the demands for common bean and maize, respectively, are covered by local productions), meaning that the seed demand is met either through importation or fraudulent conversion of farmer-saved seed. Due to lack of technical capacities, Ituri seed multipliers mainly produce open pollinated and synthetic varieties, while hybrids are imported from neighbouring countries. The lack of functional breeders in the provincial seed production chain, disproportionately low seed multipliers-to-distributors ratio, the weakness of the seed certification and regulation services, the border porosity, poor coordination among actors, and low awareness of farmers on seed qualities and advantages of using certified quality seed are the main structural and functional factors hindering the well-functioning of northeastern DRC seed system. This study provided an insight on the characteristics, stakeholders and challenges facing the seed sector in northeastern DRC and proposed an action plan for its improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice is a major source of carbohydrates worldwide. As the global population increases, its annual consumption also increases. Using the high-quality seeds, rice productivity can be enhanced. However, increasing seed access and availability is a major concern. This study aimed to map rice seed production and distribution in Indonesia and determine the challenges. It was carried out in 10 provinces in Indonesia from May to December 2022. These provinces are the centers of rice production in Indonesia. Primary (survey, focus group discussion, and key informant interviews) and secondary data collection methods were used. Results showed that producer capacity and production are closely related to institutional type, where legal institutions are more powerful in terms of knowledge, competency, and market. Almost all seed producers produced the extension seed class. The specific locations, agroecology, and rice consumer preferences affected the variety produced. Seeds were produced with good management, as shown by the adequacy of information types and sources. Furthermore, a free market is a sustainable strategy for selling seeds. The main challenges for seed rice production and distribution in Indonesia include encouraging appropriate resource management and planning (human, infrastructure, and financial) in the seed sector and increasing the linkage of seed stakeholders, such as research institutions, seed certification agencies, producers, and the government. A rapid and appropriate response to these challenges can increase seed availability for producers.

Farmers in sub-Saharan Africa do not have much choice of quality seed of vegetable cultivars adapted to local growing conditions and consumer demand. Only a handful of vegetable seed companies invest in local breeding research, while nearly all rely on seed imports. Our objective was to analyse to what extent existing seed laws and regulations enable or restrict the development of a research-based vegetable seed sector in Africa. Using a regulatory value chain approach, we analysed written laws and regulations for 13 countries and interviewed private and public sector stakeholders. We generally find that countries have taken a government-centred approach to seed quality control without recognizing that government agencies have little capacity to do this properly for vegetable crops. Mandatory Value for Cultivation and Use (VCU) trials and state-controlled seed certification are the two examples of regulatory approaches that may work for cereals but are not well suited for vegetables. No country has vegetable breeding as a goal in their national seed policy, and only four set out specific objectives for the vegetable seed sector. Tailoring seed policies, laws and regulations more specifically to vegetables could stimulate local variety development and seed production and benefit smallholder farmers and consumers at large.

IntroductionExternal conditionalities have shaped public policy development in borrowing nations. This has been through top-down policy support programs, an example being the policy reforms under the structural adjustment program. Under the seed sector reforms Malawi committed to the Southern Africa Development Community and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa harmonized seed regulations technical agreements.MethodsTo contribute to the debate, we analyzed the Malawi seed sector policy process by investigating three questions: What were the leading events? Who were the stakeholders involved, and their roles? Which factors influenced the policy process? Qualitative tools were employed based on policy process theory using the Kaleidoscope Model. We used stakeholder inception, planning, feedback workshops, and key informant interviews (N = 17). This data was complemented by grey literature as secondary information. Snowball sampling was used to identify key informant interview participants based on the saturation principle. Narrative analysis focusing on content, structure, and dialogic context was used.ResultsOur results show a strong external influence on the seed sector policy process. This began after independence when development partners supported the establishment of the public agricultural research system to improve production for food security and export. Failure to achieve the earlier objectives resulted in economic reforms aimed at private sector-led seed sector development based on market-oriented policies. The increase in the private sector's role called for adopting and enacting regulatory policies and legislation that used policy transfer theory. International financial institutions, multinational companies, and regional economic communities led this process. Our evidence suggests that the civil society community in Malawi contested the policies for not recognizing farmers' rights. This affected the domestication process of the harmonized seed regulations technical agreements.DiscussionTherefore, we recommend critical consideration and embracing of existing domestic social, political, and technical conditions to support economic policy reforms. This would help reduce unintended consequences and improve inclusivity. Governments may need to play an interlocutory role for the various actors in the policy domain during the domestication process.

Farmers in sub-Saharan Africa do not have much choice of quality seed of vegetable cultivars adapted to local growing conditions and consumer demand. Only a handful of vegetable seed companies invest in local breeding research, while nearly all rely on seed imports. Our objective was to analyse to what extent existing seed laws and regulations enable or restrict the development of a research-based vegetable seed sector in Africa. Using a regulatory value chain approach, we analysed written laws and regulations for 13 countries and interviewed private and public sector stakeholders. We generally find that countries have taken a government-centred approach to seed quality control without recognizing that government agencies have little capacity to do this properly for vegetable crops. Mandatory Value for Cultivation and Use (VCU) trials and state-controlled seed certification are the two examples of regulatory approaches that may work for cereals but are not well suited for vegetables. No country has vegetable breeding as a goal in their national seed policy, and only four set out specific objectives for the vegetable seed sector. Tailoring seed policies, laws and regulations more specifically to vegetables could stimulate local variety development and seed production and benefit smallholder farmers and consumers at large. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the objective of evaluating the existing relationship between actors of the formal seed sector and the peasant cooperative sector to implement development strategies for the cultivation of maize in mountainous areas, in three municipalities in the north of Pinar del Río, individual interviews were conducted with 57 actors (peasants and agricultural technicians), with open and closed questions to collect information on the reasons why they adopt improved and creole seeds of the cereal, as well as relevant information on the varieties they handle. Qualitative and quantitative methods were used for data analysis. The first ones were used to organize the data, such as causal attribution analysis, used to identify and classify categories and dimensions. In the case of quantitative methods, frequency analysis, calculation of averages and percentages were used to characterize the systems studied, and multidimensional scaling analysis was used to determine the relationship between the actors, based on the categories expressed by them. The results obtained indicate that farmers and seed policy decision-makers have different perceptions regarding the reasons for using creole and improved maize seeds and, above all, have a different vision regarding the value of seed use, which shows the existence of inconsistencies between the two groups of actors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A value chain approach is the most viable and pragmatic strategy to develop an effective, inclusive, competitive and sustainable seed system for many crops globally. This study was conducted in the Kailali, Dang and Siraha districts of the Terai and Inner Terai regions of Nepal to map and thoroughly analyze the value chain of the lentil seed system. Primary data were collected through a household survey, key stakeholder interviews and focus group discussions. Altogether, 300 lentil grain-producing and 100 seed-producing farmers were selected for the study. Descriptive statistics, value chain mapping, stakeholder price spread calculation and return on investment were the major tools for the study. Conventional cultivation practices along with incidence of biotic and abiotic stresses ensured non-significant differences in yield, income and benefit-cost ratio (B:C) between local seed users and improved seed users, resulting in a distorted demand pull chain and eventually leading to the lamentable lentil seed system. Total value addition from farm gate to end user was 63.84% of the total retail price. Seed conditioners and processors contributed 28.38% of total value addition. Return on Investment (ROI) per total cost was higher for seed-producing farmers (59.3%). However, ROI per added cost was higher (214.8%) for retailers followed by seed conditioners and processors (96.37%). The total price spread along the chain was 45.21% of the total consumer price, revealing the inefficient marketing system. Scaling up the major factors behind improved seed adoption, like package of practices, use of a specialized production area, the development of stress resilient varieties, technical assistance, training, and subsidy schemes based on production and efficient market system development, can economically benefit lentil-producing farmers, thereby reinforcing the major pulling force of the lentil seed value chain. Appropriate infrastructure, government prioritization, a coordinated policy environment and innovative public-private partnership models across the seed value chain are necessary for overall sectoral growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Undernourishment of nutrients, also known as hidden hunger, affects over 2 billion populace globally. Even though stunting among children below five years of age has decreased in India in the last ten years, India is home to roughly thirty percent of the world's population of stunted pre-schoolers. A significant improvement has been witnessed in the targeted development and deployment of biofortified crops; approximately 20 million farm households from developing counties benefit from cultivating and consuming biofortified crops. There is ample scope for including biofortified varieties in the seed chain, ensuring nutritional security. Wheat is a dietary staple in India, typically consumed as wholemeal flour in the form of flatbreads such as chapatti and roti. Wheat contributes to nearly one fifth of global energy requirements and can also provide better amounts of iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn). As a result, biofortified wheat can serve as a medium for delivery of essential micronutrients such as Fe and Zn to end users. This review discusses wheat biofortification components such as Fe and Zn dynamics, its uptake and movement in plants, the genetics of their buildup, and the inclusion of biofortified wheat varieties in the seed multiplication chain concerning India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A climate-resilient, root-based sweetpotato planting material (SPM) conservation method called “Triple S” or “Storage in Sand and Sprouting” has created timely access to sweetpotato planting material in areas with a prolonged dry season in Uganda and Tanzania. The aim of this study was to validate and optimize the Triple S method for conservation of sweetpotato planting material in dry areas of southern Ethiopia. The Triple S method was validated in four districts of southern Ethiopia on varieties Kulfo and Awassa 83 and compared with two common local planting material conservation methods: leaving “volunteer roots” in the soil which then sprout at the onset of rains; and planting vines under shade or mulch. Across study locations and for both varieties, Triple S resulted in a higher survival rate (81–95%) in storage during the dry season compared to the local conservation methods (7–57%). Plants of both varieties grown from roots conserved with the Triple S method showed significantly higher vine growth and lower weevil and virus infection symptoms compared to plants grown from the two local conservation methods. An additional experiment found that planting at the start of the main rainy season in June and harvesting just before the start of the dry season in October gives the highest number of medium-sized and weevil-free roots suitable for Triple S. The current study demonstrated that the Triple S method is a promising technology for small-scale sweetpotato farmers in dry areas for timely access to high-quality planting material

Widespread adoption of new varieties can be valuable, especially where improved agricultural production technologies are hard to access. However, as farmers adopt new varieties, in situ population structure and genetic diversity of their seed holdings can change drastically. Consequences of adoption are still poorly understood due to a lack of crop genetic diversity assessments and detailed surveys of farmers' seed management practices. Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) is an excellent model for these types of studies, as it has a long history of cultivation among smallholder farmers, exhibits eco-geographic patterns of diversity (e.g., Andean vs. Mesoamerican gene-pools), and has been subjected to post-Columbian dispersal and recent introduction of improved cultivars. The Hoima district of western Uganda additionally provides an excellent social setting for evaluating consequences of adoption because access to improved varieties has varied across farmer groups in this production region. This study establishes a baseline understanding of the common bean diversity found among household producers in Uganda and compares the crop population structure, diversity and consequences of adoption of household producers with different adoption practices. Molecular diversity analysis, based on 4,955 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers, evaluated a total of 1,156 seed samples that included 196 household samples collected from household producers in the Hoima district, 19 breeder-selected varieties used in participatory breeding activities that had taken place prior to the study in the region, and a global bean germplasm collection. Households that had participated in regional participatory breeding efforts were more likely to adopt new varieties and, consequently, diversify their seed stocks than those that had not participated. Of the three farmer groups that participated in breeding efforts, households from the farmer group with the longest history of bean production were more likely to conserve "Seed Engufu", a local "Calima"-type variety of the Andean bean gene pool, and, at the same time, introduce rare Mesoamerican gene pool varieties into household seed stocks.

Based on a concept for demand-orientation in seed systems, we characterized Nigeria's cassava (Manihot esculenta) seed system from national to local level and farmers' demand in three study sites. Interviews with seed-system actors explained their roles for supply-side functions. Focus group discussions and a survey described multiple aspects of farmers' demand. Our findings show that the national agriculture development program alone did not have the capacity to supply farmers with sufficient seed of desired varieties. Seed exchange between farmers and informal seed sellers contributed to the distribution of seed and new varieties. The presence of seed sellers and farmers' demand for cassava seed varied between the three study sites, farmer types and gender. We conclude that informal seed sellers and village seed entrepreneurs have a potential to respond to farmers' heterogeneous demands. However, without recurrent demand for specialized seed production or continuous support from the formal system, they do not reach underserved markets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionAccess to high-quality seeds remains a key constraint to the intensification of crop production in low-income countries. In this study, we analyzed maize seed production and distribution systems in Benin to identify leverage points for effective seed systems, a prerequisite for improving maize production.MethodsSemi-structured interviews were conducted with 81 seed producers selected in seven municipalities across the three phytogeographical zones of Benin. Key informant interviews were also conducted with ten public and private stakeholders involved in maize seed systems in Benin.Results and discussionFindings showed that the legal and institutional frameworks governing seed systems in Benin were recently reinforced with a national seed policy, the creation and operationalization of the National Committee of Plant Seeds and the existence of regulations and rules on the production, quality control, certification, trade, and packaging of seeds. In addition, enabling conditions to facilitate the involvement of the private sector have been greatly improved with the revision of modalities for obtaining approval for the production and distribution of seeds in Benin. While the seed sector is improving and both public and private stakeholders are involved in maize seed production and distribution, synergies among stakeholders need to be strengthened. Strengthening business and marketing skills of seed producers through training and promoting the comparative advantages of improved seeds in increasing yield and production among maize farmers could be a promising avenue. Connecting seed producers with maize farmers' organizations coupled with ICT-based agro-advisories could boost the development of the maize seed sector, and ultimately the maize value chain.

Vegetatively propagated crops are particularly prone to disease dissemination through their seed systems. Strict phytosanitary measures are important to limit the impact of diseases as illustrated by the potato seed system in Europe. Cassava brown streak disease (CBSD) is a devastating disease caused by two viral species collectively named cassava brown streak viruses (CBSVs). CBSD can cause substantial root yield losses of up to 100% in the worst affected areas and is easily transmitted through stem cuttings. In Eastern and Central Africa, the epidemiology of CBSVs in the local socio-economical context of production remains poorly known while a better understanding would be an asset to properly manage the disease. This lack of information explains partially the limited efficiency of current regulatory schemes in increasing the availability of quality seed to smallholders and mitigating the spread of pests and diseases. This study surveyed the epidemiology of CBSVs in Uvira territory, Eastern D.R. Congo, and its drivers using a multivariate approach combining farmer's interview, field observation, sampling and molecular detection of CBSVs. Investigation on the epidemiology of CBSD revealed that three clusters in the study area could be identified using five most significant factors: (i) symptoms incidence, (ii) number of whiteflies, (iii) types of foliar symptoms, (iv) cutting's pathways and (v) plant age. Among the three clusters identified, one proved to be potentially interesting for seed multiplication activities since the disease pressure was the lowest. Through risk assessment, we also identified several key socio-economic determinants on disease epidemy: (i) factors related to farmer's knowledge and awareness (knowledge of cassava pests and diseases, knowledge of management practices, support from extension services and management strategies applied), (ii) factors related to the geographical location of farmer's fields (proximity to borders, proximity to town, distance to acquire cuttings), as well as (iii) the pathways used to acquire cuttings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key message: Status of the current outbreak of cassava mosaic disease (CMD) in Southeast Asia was reviewed. Healthy cassava seed production and dissemination systems have been established in Vietnam and Cambodia, along with integrated disease and pest management systems, to combat the outbreak. Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is one of the most important edible crops in tropical and subtropical regions. Recently, invasive insect pests and diseases have resulted in serious losses to cassava in Southeast Asia. In this review we discuss the current outbreak of cassava mosaic disease (CMD) caused by the Sri Lankan cassava mosaic virus (SLCMV) in Southeast Asia, and summarize similarities between SLCMV and other cassava mosaic begomoviruses. A SATREPS (Science and Technology Research Partnership for Sustainable Development) project "Development and dissemination of sustainable production systems based on invasive pest management of cassava in Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand", was launched in 2016, which has been funded by The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and The Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), Japan. The objectives of SATREPS were to establish healthy seed production and dissemination systems for cassava in south Vietnam and Cambodia, and to develop management systems for plant diseases and insect pests of cassava. To achieve these goals, model systems of healthy seed production in Vietnam and Cambodia have been developed incorporating CMD-resistant planting materials through international networks with The International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) and The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quality vegetable seed has the potential to significantly impact nutrition security in sub-Saharan Africa, as the region has the world's lowest per capita production and consumption of vegetables. Moreover, seed companies might have an important role to play, as in Asia, vegetable production and consumption increased rapidly following the expansion of the private seed sector. However, market-driven seed sector development remains contentious, with some celebrating technological advancements and others raising concerns. This paper contributes to seed systems literature by focusing on the role of vegetable crops and diversity within the private sector. It explores the heterogeneous character of the private sector by studying how different business models of leading vegetable seed companies jointly contribute to sector development in sub-Saharan Africa. Eighteen in-depth interviews were conducted with leading vegetable seed companies operating in the region. Qualitative tools were selected to translate individual company data into general findings; while thematic analysis was used to pinpoint a private sector perspective and ideal-type analysis was used to construct business model typologies. The results show that seed companies collectively view seed sector development as a linear trajectory involving public and private investments to enable farmers to adopt increasingly advanced seed types, especially hybrids. In this trajectory, different companies take on different roles based on specialization in seed system functions: variety development, seed production, seed dissemination, and seed use. The coexistence of and collaboration between different (private) actors in the vegetable seed sector contribute to plurality and interaction in line with an integrated approach to seed sector development. However, it is not a static condition as company roles evolve with expanding business models in terms of seed system functions and market segments. A general objective of (national) seed policies is to increase farmers' access and choice in terms of quality seed of improved varieties. Seed sector development interventions can enhance inclusivity by focusing on viable and innovative business models for niche markets in terms of farming systems and crop types. [Display omitted] • Vegetable seed companies foresee a trajectory in which farmers adopt increasingly technologically advanced seed types. • Seed companies play complementary roles in this trajectory prioritizing different seed system functions or market segments. • Public and private investments are being made to support seed sector development with private actors focusing on hybrids. • Hybrid transitions in vegetable crops are being witnessed and anticipated by seed companies across sub-Saharan Africa. • Seed sector development interventions can enhance inclusivity by focusing on viable business models for niche markets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vegetatively propagated crops are particularly prone to disease dissemination through their seed systems. Strict phytosanitary measures are important to limit the impact of diseases as illustrated by the potato seed system in Europe. Cassava brown streak disease (CBSD) is a devastating disease caused by two viral species collectively named cassava brown streak viruses (CBSVs). CBSD can cause substantial root yield losses of up to 100% in the worst affected areas and is easily transmitted through stem cuttings. In Eastern and Central Africa, the epidemiology of CBSVs in the local socio-economical context of production remains poorly known while a better understanding would be an asset to properly manage the disease. This lack of information explains partially the limited efficiency of current regulatory schemes in increasing the availability of quality seed to smallholders and mitigating the spread of pests and diseases. This study surveyed the epidemiology of CBSVs in Uvira territory, Eastern D.R. Congo, and its drivers using a multivariate approach combining farmer’s interview, field observation, sampling and molecular detection of CBSVs. Investigation on the epidemiology of CBSD revealed that three clusters in the study area could be identified using five most significant factors: (i) symptoms incidence, (ii) number of whiteflies, (iii) types of foliar symptoms, (iv) cutting’s pathways and (v) plant age. Among the three clusters identified, one proved to be potentially interesting for seed multiplication activities since the disease pressure was the lowest. Through risk assessment, we also identified several key socio-economic determinants on disease epidemy: (i) factors related to farmer’s knowledge and awareness (knowledge of cassava pests and diseases, knowledge of management practices, support from extension services and management strategies applied), (ii) factors related to the geographical location of farmer’s fields (proximity to borders, proximity to town, distance to acquire cuttings), as well as (iii) the pathways used to acquire cuttings.

• Cowpea is a highly valued fruit and leafy vegetable crop contributing to food, nutrition, and health security. • Low cowpea production and productivity in sub-Saharan Africa and globally are due to a lack of improved cultivars with multiple disease, and insect pest resistance and drought tolerant; moreover, there is a lack of seed system research in cowpea. • The extensive phenotypic and genotypic variation found in cowpea genetic resources is useful for the development of cultivars with enhanced grain yield, leafy yield and nutritional values as well as drought tolerant. Despite the contribution of cowpeas to food security and the crop's numerous nutritional and health attributes, consumers in South Africa have labelled cowpeas, among other leguminous crops as a "poor people's food" ; this contributed to the gradual decline in the cultivation and use of the crop. This, in turn, resulted in the observed high reliance on limited number of plant based protein crops and excessive consumption of livestock products. In this paper, three aspects are interrogated, i.e., genetic resource management, production constraints as well as the trade performance and consumption of cowpeas in South Africa. A clear understanding of these aspects renders an informed decision upon which recommendations for the necessary practical interventions that are needed to be put in place to spur the development of target products and cowpea's value chain. The assessment of genetic resource management and seed production constraints of cowpeas was based on a review of relevant literature, while descriptive analysis of secondary data spanning a period of 10 years (2010-2019) obtained from Trade Map and FAOSTAT databases was used to interrogate the trade performance and consumption of cowpeas. Findings reveal that seed production constraints are largely anchored on the limited attention government and policy making institutions have accorded to the seed system of orphaned crops, thereby compromising their potential by failing to supply affordable good quality seeds to smallholder and commercial farmers. However, South Africa has one of the largest and most diverse collections of cowpea germplasm housed at the Agricultural Research Council. With regard to trade performance and consumption, results show that South Africa is a net exporter of cowpeas, with a 10 years' period annual average worth R2.9 million. Given that South Africa does not re-export cowpeas, yet on average 4848 tonnes are produced annually, it is a clear indication that the country produces lightly more than what is consumed domestically – on average 4634 tonnes per annum. Therefore, recommendation is made to bolster cowpea production and productivity through mainstreaming the legume seed system towards boosting local and export markets as well as strongly enhancing local consumption by creating awareness of the nutritional and health benefits of cowpeas. Furthermore, there is a need to increase awareness about the nutritional and health benefits of cowpeas and other leguminous crops, among other socio-economic benefits. This is important in spurring cowpeas consumption domestically, while countering the over reliance on animal products as protein sources and the associated risks such as such as high greenhouse gas emissions and obesity for people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clean seed systems for vegetatively propagated crops can play an important part in improving rural livelihoods but continue to face adoption challenges. Using exploratory case-based methodology, this research explored the adoption of a clean seed system for sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) among farmers in the highlands of Papua New Guinea. The research further explored the outcomes driven by adoption and how system design influences adoption and outcomes. Data were collected through a baseline survey (n = 73) in 2017, and an end-line survey (n = 94) in 2020, with observation and field notes used to validate and verify survey results. Results provide insight into how a pragmatic approach to design, led by local extension staff, can provide a contextually relevant system that inspired widespread adoption. Adoption of clean seed has created a new market for vines, connected commercial farmers and commercial feedlots to improved agricultural inputs while increasing the interest of farmers in investing in complementary technologies to get the most from clean seed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is a vital crop in Rwanda where it ranks as the third most consumed staple. However, cassava productivity remains below its yield potential due to several constraints, including important viral diseases, such as cassava brown streak disease (CBSD). Because various factors can be addressed to mitigate the impact of viral diseases, it is essential to identify routes of virus contamination in the cassava agrosystems from the seed system to farmer's practices and knowledge. The present study aimed at (1) assessing the current cassava seed system and farmers' practices and their knowledge of the biotic constraints to cassava production, (2) determining the status of CBSD as well as critical factors associated with its spread through the seed system channels, and (3) determining factors that influence cassava productivity in Rwanda. A cross-sectional study was carried out from May to September 2019 in 13 districts of Rwanda. A total of 130 farmers and cassava fields were visited, and the incidence and severity of CBSD were evaluated. CBSD was detected in all cassava-producing districts. The highest field incidence of CBSD was recorded in the Nyanza district (62%; 95% CI = 56–67%) followed by the Bugesera district (60%; 95% CI = 54–65%), which recorded the highest severity score of 3.0 ± 0.6. RT-PCR revealed the presence of CBSD at the rate of 35.3%. Ugandan cassava brown streak virus was predominant (21.5%) although cassava brown streak virus was 4% and mixed infection was 10%. An informal cassava seed system was dominant among individual farmers, whereas most cooperatives used quality seeds. Cassava production was found to be significantly influenced by the use of fertilizer, size of the land, farming system, cassava viral disease, and type of cassava varieties grown (p < 0.001). Disease management measures were practiced by a half of participants only. Factors found to be significantly associated with CBSD infection (p < 0.05) were the source of cuttings, proximity to borders, age of cassava, and knowledge of CBSD transmission and management.

Formal seed enterprises in Ethiopia focus mainly on maize and bread wheat crops but ignored chick pea and malt barley so that community based seed production scheme is currently underway in Ethiopia including in the study areas. Therefore, this study was carried out to examine the profitability of malt barley and chick pea community based seed production scheme at six woredas in Ethiopia. Crop yield, price and cost was collected using data recording sheets while quantitative data was collected by survey and personal observation using checklists. Descriptive statistics and gross margin analysis method was used to determine the profitability of the community seed production. The results of the profit indicators of the study showed that community based chick pea and malt barley seed production was profitable business enterprise. Chick pea community based seed production enterprises was likely to be more sensitive to yield reduction than to price fluctuations or reductions while that of malt barley responds the same for both price and yield. The gross margin analysis depicted that, community based seed production participant farmers obtained a gross margin of 36,591.25 ETB/ha and 45,004.70 ETB/ha from chick pea and malt barley crops respectively. Moreover, a high benefit-cost ratio value of 4.21 and 3.71 was obtained for chick pea and malt barley respectively. Therefore, chick pea and malt barley community based seed production scheme should be promoted to a wider scale to reach more farmers and unaddressed similar areas by office of agriculture in collaboration with farmers' cooperative unions, seed enterprises and/or universities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional African Vegetables (TAV) play an important role in the livelihoods, food and nutritional security of local populations. Access to high-quality seeds of improved varieties is a foundation for increasing crop productivity. TAV seed systems have received little attention. We systematically reviewed the literature to assess the sustainability (seed quality, availability, accessibility, affordability, and profitability of seed businesses) of TAV seed systems in Eastern Africa. The review revealed that the private sector mediated seed system (i.e., formal) offered higher potential for seed quality, and profitability for seed growers. The community-based seed system showed higher potential in ensuring a better access to seeds. The quality of TAV seeds was partially addressed in the studies with a focus on germination percentage and purity, which varied across systems, crops, and geography. While there was a trend of poorer seed quality in the informal system, seed quality in the formal and community-based systems was not necessarily better. The affordability of seed from the various systems (private sector mediated, community based and informal) needs further investigation. Because TAV seed systems are localized and differ significantly among and within countries, tailored interventions are required when promoting a given TAV seed system. We identified inter-regional gaps in TAV seed systems studies, with all the studies concentrated in Eastern Africa, mainly in Tanzania and Kenya. Filling these gaps will require more investment in other regions in sub-Saharan Africa to document existing initiatives or initiate interventions seeking to promote access to high-quality TAV seeds. This review sheds light on existing gaps in research on TAV seed systems to guide future interventions.

Vines are the major source of planting material in sweetpotato. Extended dry spells hinder conservation of vines and in turn affect the availability of planting material at the onset of rains in southern Africa. In some cases, improved sweetpotato germplasm has been lost by smallholder farmers in Mozambique due to prolonged dry spells. Small to medium roots provide an opportunity to conserve germplasm and get planting material at the beginning of the rainy season. The objectives of the study were to (i) measure sprouting ability of diverse germplasm of sweetpotato - farmer varieties, improved clones and released varieties and (ii) estimate their ability to provide planting material for the next crop in southern Mozambique. Trials with 29 genotypes were established in a randomized complete block design with two replications at Umbeluzi Research Station and Nwalate Farm in 2015, 2016 and 2017. At harvest, 14 small to medium roots were selected and stored in small plastic dishes filled with dry sand at Nwalate Farm. After four months in storage, 10 similar roots were taken and planted in 1 m row plots arranged in a randomized complete block design with two replications. The trials were irrigated to initiate sprouting and support plant growth during the first four weeks. Data collected were analysed using SAS 1996. All the tested genotypes sprouted after sowing. The number of sprouts per root were significantly affected by the genotype, location and genotype x location x year interactions. Caelan had the most sprouts per root. Sprout length measured at six weeks after sprouting was also significantly affected by genotype, location, year and genotype x location x year interactions. Caelan had vines each long enough to provide 10 cuttings of 10 cm length for rapid multiplication. The number of cuttings depended on the growth habit of the variety. Irene, a popular variety in Mozambique, is erect and bushy and could only provide four cuttings over the same period. Growth habit especially under a changing climate should be considered in breeding programs as an option of facilitating a sustainable and easy seed system.

Market-orientation is widely used to predict the interaction of smallholder farmers with both input and output markets. Commonly used in the market participation discourse, it is fast becoming a key milestone towards smallholder commercialisation. This study introduced it into the disaster, resilience, seed systems, food security and livelihood context. Using a mixed-methods approach, 120 smallholder farmers in a drought-affected district of South Africa were sampled, and information collected for analysis. The result showed that most of the farmers relied on purchased seeds and fertilisers for crop production, and on average sold 62% of their farm produce. It was estimated that the market orientation index (MOI) was 55%, showing that the farmers were market-oriented. The farm size (0.004), quantities of seeds (0.007) and fertiliser (0.024) purchased, the value of crops produced (0.043), the amount received from crop sales (0.001), distance to markets (0.048) and access to credit (0.034) were found to be significant in determining their market orientation. Policy recommendations were made to improve access to seeds and credit for farmers in the area while assisting with increasing farmland size. The findings have implications for development efforts aimed at rebuilding after natural disasters, as well as sourcing food aid from local smallholder farmers by humanitarian actors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adoption of improved seed and other planting material in developing countries shows mixed results despite their potential to increase agricultural productivity. To arrive at a better understanding of the observed adoption rates, a lot of research is focused on finding the cultivars and variety traits that are attractive to farmers. Given smallholder farmers' seed sourcing practices are often influenced by social ties and cultural norms, it is also relevant to understand where and why farmers seek to acquire planting material. In this study, means-end chain analysis was applied to understand farmers' perceptions of formal and informal sources of banana planting material. Means-end chain analysis allows respondents to select and verbalize their own constructs to evaluate a product or service. These personally relevant constructs are subsequently linked to their personal goals via laddering interviews. We interviewed 31 Ugandan banana farmers from Western and Central region. Farmers associated formal sources mainly with improved cultivars, tissue culture plantlets and low levels of diversity. Informal seed sources were mostly associated with traditional cultivars, suckers and high levels of diversity. The goals farmers pursued while acquiring planting material, such as financial gains, food security, and to sustain and develop the household, were fairly similar among different groups of farmers. The means through which farmers aimed and preferred to pursue these goals differed and could be related to aspects such as gender, production scale and production goals. These differences among farmers preferences for particular sources indicate that not only cultivar traits should be tailored to farmers' preferences and needs, but also the characteristics of the sources from which farmers access planting material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is one of the major oilseed legumes contributing to food security in Benin. Unfortunately, several constraints hamper its production leading to a low yield. A good knowledge of on-farm management of peanut diversity and uses that allow its maintenance in traditional Beninese agriculture are prerequisites to establish an efficient breeding programme. Therefore, this study aims to document peanut varietal diversity, folk nomenclature, seed system, storage constraints, pest management practices, varietal preference criteria, cultural taboos and uses in southern and central Benin. Two hundred and sixteen farmers were surveyed through 32 villages in southern and central Benin using rural appraisal tools. Fifty-four peanut local varieties grouped into eight morphotypes based on the seed characteristics were registered. The number of local varieties maintained per village ranged from 1 to 11 and varied between 1 and 4 per household. The drop in yield was the main reason of peanut varietal abandonment. Rodent attacks were the most important constraints of peanut production. Varietal preference criteria varied from ethnic groups with seed size and many pod/seeds per plant as the main preferred traits. Peanut seed system was mainly informal. To alleviate pest problems in stored peanut, producers used biocidal plants and synthetic chemicals. Some cultural taboos and various uses of peanuts have been recorded. Our results suggest that for boosting peanut production in central and southern Benin, breeders must create high-yielding peanut varieties. However, it is important to take into account the preference varietal criteria of each ethnic group for their adoption. For a good estimation of peanut diversity in the study area, morphological and molecular characterizations were recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is a root crop grown in tropical and subtropical regions. Cassava production faces an increasing number of new diseases and arthropod pests, especially in Southeast Asia, where its area and trade have expanded. An efficient plant-multiplication system is required to provide disease-free plants to farmers to sustain production. Cassava is generally propagated vegetatively by planting properly lignified stem cuttings in soil. Vegetative multiplication is a simple approach and has the advantage of producing vigorous plants. The generation of new plants from seed, however, is not a common practice. Notably, properly lignified stems, rather than young and non-lignified stems, are required for successful vegetative propagation. On average, it takes approximately 8–12 months to produce lignified stems of sufficient size to establish an efficient and cost-effective propagation system. In the present study, an aeroponic culture system for producing cassava was developed, which is simple, low-cost, and enables the use of young stems (4–6 weeks old) for propagation. Additionally, we have demonstrated that the survival ratio and plant growth are improved in comparison with general propagation in soil. We propose that aeroponic culture can serve as an efficient method for producing disease-free cassava planting material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed is life and can be a source of empowerment and disempowerment for women and men farmers. In this study, to close the gender gaps in seed, the Community Enterprises Development Organization, the Alliance of Bioversity and CIAT and the National Agricultural Research Organization developed a seed credit model available to men and women belonging to farmer groups. A mixed method was used to collect information from two districts in central Uganda on how the seed credit model reconstructed access, use, control and resulting benefits. Results showed that the provision of the seed credit model was considered a blessing even though it had many nuances. As a result of the seed credit model, we saw increased productivity in women's fields, increased income and decision making over income incurred from the sale of their crops. Their social status has been enhanced, and they now occupy a place of respect in their communities and households, where they can make decisions and get assets like houses and land. While it increased productivity, income and enhanced food and nutrition security needs of the family, it also changed power dynamics within the household as women become more empowered. To maintain power relations, men limited women's access to fertile land and family labor, which defined the quantity of seed gotten from the seed credit model. Women's participation and involvement in the seed credit model decreased over time as they were expected to pay their spouses' seed loans. Men's participation decreased because they were no longer entrusted with seed loans as their payment rate was very low. As we reap positive benefits, we have to ensure we don't 'do harm' when empowering our beneficiaries. • Women and men's participation in the seed credit model decreased over time. • Women were able to increase productivity, income and assets from the SCM. • Gender based violence became prominent with changing power relations, as women got more empowered. • Men were no longer entrusted with seed loans due to the low rate of repayment compared to women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The success of crop varieties introduction is tightly linked to the uses, biophysical conditions, the cropping systems in which the crop is integrated and farmers’ and consumers’ preferences. In Benin, however, pigeonpea production systems including the cropping systems, marketing, utilizations and preferences have received little attention. This study aimed at analyzing farmers’ practices and constraints related to pigeonpea production as well as identifying farmers’ preferred traits in pigeonpea. Methods The study was conducted in three pigeonpea-growing agroecological zones in Benin. Participatory rural appraisal tools including individual interview (n = 302) and group discussion were used to collect information on production system, constraints and preferred traits. Fisher’s exact test was used to assess the relationship between crop associated with pigeonpea and the growing areas. Based on preferred traits, villages were clustered using UPGMA. Results Pigeonpea is predominantly grown by men. Approximately 98% of the pigeonpea growers associated pigeonpea with other crops, while 2% of them grew the crop in pure stand. Pigeonpea grown in association with maize (48.7%) was the most encountered cropping system. The type of crops associated with pigeonpea depended on the growing area (P

Rice is a major source of carbohydrates worldwide. As the global population increases, its annual consumption also increases. Using the high-quality seeds, rice productivity can be enhanced. However, increasing seed access and availability is a major concern. This study aimed to map rice seed production and distribution in Indonesia and determine the challenges. It was carried out in 10 provinces in Indonesia from May to December 2022. These provinces are the centers of rice production in Indonesia. Primary (survey, focus group discussion, and key informant interviews) and secondary data collection methods were used. Results showed that producer capacity and production are closely related to institutional type, where legal institutions are more powerful in terms of knowledge, competency, and market. Almost all seed producers produced the extension seed class. The specific locations, agroecology, and rice consumer preferences affected the variety produced. Seeds were produced with good management, as shown by the adequacy of information types and sources. Furthermore, a free market is a sustainable strategy for selling seeds. The main challenges for seed rice production and distribution in Indonesia include encouraging appropriate resource management and planning (human, infrastructure, and financial) in the seed sector and increasing the linkage of seed stakeholders, such as research institutions, seed certification agencies, producers, and the government. A rapid and appropriate response to these challenges can increase seed availability for producers., Competing Interests: The authors declare the following financial interests/personal relationships which may be considered as potential competing interests:Abdul Qadir reports financial support was provided by The 10.13039/501100014538Indonesia Endowment Funds for Education (LPDP). If there are other authors, they declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2024 The Authors.)

This article highlights 12 years (2007–2019) of research, achievements, lessons learned, challenges and gaps in discovery‐to‐delivery research in legumes emanating from three projects, collectively called Tropical Legumes (TL) with a total investment of about US$ 67 million funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. These projects were implemented by three CGIAR centres (ICRISAT, CIAT and IITA) together with 15 national agricultural research system partners in sub‐Saharan Africa and South Asia. The TL projects together with some of their precursors and complementary projects from other agencies, facilitated the development of 266 improved legume varieties and the production of about 497,901 tons of certified seeds of the target legume crops in the focus countries. The certified seeds have been planted on about 5.0 million ha by more than 25 million smallholder farmers in the 15 countries and beyond, producing about 6.1 million tons of grain worth US$ 3.2 billion. Furthermore, the projects also trained 52 next generation scientists that included 10 women, by supporting 34 Masters degrees and 18 PhD degrees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is an important food and cash crop globally. The eastern region of Ethiopia is known for its groundnut production despite the low productivity attributable to diverse biotic and abiotic stresses and socioeconomic constraints. The objective of this study was to assess farmers' perceived production constraints, variety choice, and preferred traits of groundnut in eastern Ethiopia to guide future groundnut variety development and release. Participatory rural appraisal studies were conducted in two major groundnut-producing districts (Babile and Fedis) in eastern Ethiopia. Data were collected through a semi-structured questionnaire, transect walks, and focus group discussions. All respondent farmers widely cultivated local or obsolete, introduced varieties because of a lack of seed of modern groundnut cultivars. Ninety percent of respondents reported drought stress, mainly occurring during the flowering stage, as the leading constraint to groundnut production. Other groundnut production constraints included poor soil fertility (reported by 88% of respondents), lack of access to improved seed (67%), pre-harvest diseases (59.5%), use of low yielding varieties (52.5%), inadequate access to extension services (41.5%), limited access to credit (21.5%), and limited availability of improved varieties (18.5). Farmer-preferred traits included high shelled yield (reported by 27.67% of respondents), early maturity (16.84%), tolerance to drought stress (13.67%), market value (11.17%), good seed quality (10%), adaptability to local growing conditions (5.8%), and resistance to diseases (5.17%). Therefore, the aforementioned production constraints and farmer-preferred traits are key drivers that need to be integrated into groundnut breeding and variety release programs in eastern Ethiopia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Common bean research program of Ethiopia aimed at development of demanded variety for enhanced adoption, improve food and nutrition security as well as to boost income of smallholder farmers thereby enhancing foreign earnings of the country. To achieve these aim, the breeding program use different strategies. These incudes, importing demanded variety and fast-track testing release, introducing bean germplasm and release stable variety and participatory variety selection for incorporating growers traits on variety selection. Accordingly, bean improvement program selected six major bean products that includes, small/large white beans, speckled bean, small/large reds and mottled beans. During variety selection stakeholders’ choice and trait of preference has been incorporated during interactive consultative forums of the value chain actor at bean innovation multi-stakeholder platform. Apart from bean variety development, integrated crop management technologies has been developed to implement good agricultural practice. To facilitate common variety adoption, bean seed system have been enhanced through integration of early generation seed production with formal and informal seed production of public and private seed producers. These efforts has enhanced transformed productivity from 0.7 to 1.5 t/ha and area expanded from 150,000 ha to 520,121 ha and total production up to 568,243 t. Due to this fact bean export has been increased up to 100–150 million USD per annum. Generally, the demand led breeding and value chain approach, synergetic and innovative technology generation and promotion has transformed bean productivity, area produced and market; consecutively livelihood of growers and income of the country has been enhanced.

Widespread adoption of new varieties can be valuable, especially where improved agricultural production technologies are hard to access. However, as farmers adopt new varieties, in situ population structure and genetic diversity of their seed holdings can change drastically. Consequences of adoption are still poorly understood due to a lack of crop genetic diversity assessments and detailed surveys of farmers' seed management practices. Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) is an excellent model for these types of studies, as it has a long history of cultivation among smallholder farmers, exhibits eco-geographic patterns of diversity (e.g., Andean vs. Mesoamerican gene-pools), and has been subjected to post-Columbian dispersal and recent introduction of improved cultivars. The Hoima district of western Uganda additionally provides an excellent social setting for evaluating consequences of adoption because access to improved varieties has varied across farmer groups in this production region. This study establishes a baseline understanding of the common bean diversity found among household producers in Uganda and compares the crop population structure, diversity and consequences of adoption of household producers with different adoption practices. Molecular diversity analysis, based on 4,955 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers, evaluated a total of 1,156 seed samples that included 196 household samples collected from household producers in the Hoima district, 19 breeder-selected varieties used in participatory breeding activities that had taken place prior to the study in the region, and a global bean germplasm collection. Households that had participated in regional participatory breeding efforts were more likely to adopt new varieties and, consequently, diversify their seed stocks than those that had not participated. Of the three farmer groups that participated in breeding efforts, households from the farmer group with the longest history of bean production were more likely to conserve “Seed Engufu”, a local “Calima”-type variety of the Andean bean gene pool, and, at the same time, introduce rare Mesoamerican gene pool varieties into household seed stocks.