Posted on April, 24, 2025 at 01:16 am
Small-scale farmers in Rwanda are experiencing increased yields in fruit and vegetable production after using climate-proof seeds, according to the Seed Resilience Project. This initiative, launched in 2023 by the International Seed Federation, Fair Planet, Rwanda's Ministry of Agriculture, and local seed companies, focuses on enhancing access to climate-resilient seeds and improving agricultural productivity.
Data from Fair Planet indicates that tomato production has increased to eight times the national average since farmers began testing these adapted seeds. Michael Keller, secretary general of the International Seed Federation, emphasized the critical role of quality seeds, stating, "Without good quality seeds, you are doomed to fail."
Farmers are also utilizing climate-resilient varieties of cabbages, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and peppers, which are now available in local markets and for export. According to Alon Haberfeld, technology and operations manager at Fair Planet, the initiative aims to select high-performing seeds and refine agronomic practices to improve productivity. "If the seed performs well, eventually other things can do well," Haberfeld noted.
Aphrodis Zirimwabagabo, an agronomist and extension officer with Fair Planet, explained that the project begins with nursery preparation to track germination rates and seedling performance. This data is shared with seed companies to enhance seed quality. Farmers have tested over 60 hybrid varieties, leading to yields up to five times higher than open-pollinated varieties.
Despite these advancements, Keller highlighted challenges such as inconsistent policies and counterfeit seeds. He stressed the importance of locally adapted seeds for yield improvement. The project builds on Fair Planet's earlier work in Ethiopia, where 75,000 farmers increased their yields. In Rwanda, trials in May 2024 showed cabbage yields rising from 1,400kg to 7,000kg per 0.1 hectare, and tomato yields exceeding eight times the national average.
However, the availability of improved seeds is limited, with only 15 integrated seed companies in Africa running proper breeding programs. Keller noted the initiative aims to build partnerships and an enabling environment for seed testing, quality certification, and registering varieties. He also emphasized the need for more investment to support farmers in adopting improved seeds and techniques.
Source: Fresh Plaza