The Agriculture Cabinet Secretary, Mithika Linturi, has emphasized the importance of adopting cutting-edge seed technologies advocated by the African Seed Trade Association (AFSTA) to boost productivity and ensure food security.
According to Mr. Linturi, the Ministry is committed to achieving the government’s Bottom Up Economic Agenda (BETA) objectives, particularly focusing on enhancing food and nutrition security.
He highlighted the benefits of using certified seeds, stating, “We encourage our farmers to plant new, clean, and certified seeds, studies have shown that in cases where certified seeds are adopted and planted, yield increases by one and half times.”
Speaking at the AFSTA annual congress in Mombasa, CS Linturi commended the association’s efforts in promoting harmonized seed regulations across Africa.
He acknowledged measures taken by AFSTA to facilitate safe seed movement and increase seed variety choices for farmers.
Addressing the issue of counterfeit seeds, Mr. Linturi urged farmers to purchase seeds from reputable agro-vet companies to avoid disappointments and boost food security.
He emphasized the importance of stakeholders being well-versed in harmonized seed regulations to facilitate trade within regional blocs.
Mr. Linturi also highlighted the need for climate-resilient farming practices, recommending the use of drought-tolerant crops and the construction of water dams to mitigate the effects of climate change.
Wellington Wasike, Chairman of Seed Co, reiterated the importance of combating fake seed dealers and collaborating with the government to reduce seed costs through fertilizer subsidies.
He emphasized the importance of developing climate-smart seed varieties to adapt to changing weather patterns.
Samuel Chepsiror, Managing Director of Kenya Seed Company, emphasized the significance of addressing challenges in the seed sector and promoting good farming practices in the country.
The next AFSTA congress is scheduled to take place in Kigali, Rwanda, from March 3rd to 6th, 2025.
