Seeds are one of the most crucial elements in the livelihoods of agricultural communities. Availability of quality seeds for a wide range of varieties and crops is key to enhancing productivity, increasing income and reducing risks from biotic stresses and changing climatic conditions. The benefits for farmers from sowing good quality seeds of adapted varieties are enormous. However, the availability of good quality seeds in adequate quantities at an affordable price and at the required time is a major bottle-neck to agricultural development in most developing countries.

In order to address these issues and respond to the demands for food production, there is a need for strong and viable seed systems. Any such seed system would include germplasm conservation and improvement, production and distribution of quality seeds and the development of local seed industries within a set of policy and regulatory frameworks. A national seed system is  complex  (as shown in the diagram) because it interfaces with scientific, socio-economic,  trade and cultural aspects. In addition, national seed systems often  face major challenges during emergency situations caused by natural or civil disasters.

Our goal is to develop and strengthen those crucial and diverse components of seed systems through policy advice and technical assistance. In collaboration with our partners and stakeholders, we assist  member countries in   

• Development of seed policies and harmonization of seed laws and regulations at sub-regional level
• Capacity and institutional building for production, processing  and marketing of good quality seed, seed quality assurance and development of  variety release systems
• Strengthening seed security, emergency seed relief and rehabilitation of seed systems.