| Sumario: | On November 14, 2023, the Ministry of Agriculture's Department of Crops Development (DCD) convened an Inception Meeting on the Seed Sector Development Strategy (SSDS) at the Gran Melia Hotel in Arusha, Tanzania supported by USAID through the SERA BORA project and CGIAR's Ukama Ustawi initiative. Attended by a diverse array of stakeholders, the meeting aimed to initiate discussions on the SSDS, marking a crucial step towards shaping a comprehensive and impactful strategy for Tanzania's seed sector.
The meeting commenced with Professor David Nyange from the Agricultural Sector Policy and Institutional Reforms Strengthening Tanzania (ASPIRES TZ) welcoming participants and underscoring its significance as a benchmark for initiating the seed policy in Tanzania. Gratitude was extended to the Ministry of Agriculture, USAID, and CGIAR for their invaluable support and contributions. Mr. Samson Poneja, Assistant Director for DCD, emphasized the substantial role of agriculture in Tanzania and outlined challenges, stressing the need for improved seeds and a comprehensive seed strategy.
Dr. Inga Jacobs-Mata from the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) highlighted the Ukama Ustawi initiative's goal to address food and nutrition security risks, emphasizing the collaboration's importance in ensuring the availability, accessibility, and sustainability of quality seeds. Mr. Poneja, in his official opening statement, acknowledged the challenges in the agriculture sector and proposed a seed strategy focusing on availability, accessibility, utilization, and sustainability.
Professor Nyange provided insights into the seed sector's current state, emphasizing the need for strategic planning. He outlined lower crop yields in Tanzania and proposed three key factors for improvement: enhanced genetic potential through improved seeds, soil health management, and improved agronomic practices.
Dr. Idil Ires presented the Ukama Ustawi Initiative, driven by the imperative to address maize cultivation vulnerability to climate change, which is structured into six work packages. The initiative supports over 1000 farmers and 50 agro-businesses with a substantial investment of US$100 million.
A compelling case was made for the development of the Tanzania Seed Sector Development Strategy, aligning with national policies. During group sessions, participants analyzed proposed strategies in thematic areas, including Seed Availability, Accessibility, Adoption, and Utilization. The meeting concluded with expressions of gratitude from a USAID representative and Professor Nyange, marking the official closure of the workshop.
The Inception Meeting served as a collaborative platform, bringing together key stakeholders to lay the groundwork for a strategic and sustainable transformation in Tanzania's seed sector. The shared commitment and insights provided a robust foundation for the ongoing development of the SSDS.
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