Rural CBO perfects seed production for native vegetables

They identified different varieties that various groups in the area opt for and which would give best results.

He commented their modus operandi, “We identify a problem, then through a participatory approach, we take the farmers through the solution such that they own it,” notes Okong’o.

According to Daniel Karanja, a scientist with CABI, farmers learn to identify certain traits that are required to produce quality seeds for different local vegetables that are popular among rural communities in western Kenya.

Sale of the seeds helps boost Tatro’s incomes.

The seed production initiative is part of a wider programme — supported by The Association of Strengthening Agriculture in East and Central Africa (ASARECA) and CAB International — to help farmers in both Kenya and Tanzania develop seed production enterprises while boosting nutrition in rural communities

The project also aims at learning through different seed production models.

Of interest was the Tanzania model where selected farmers, who have received specific training in seed multiplication, are supplied with foundation seed which they then multiply under the supervision of extension workers.  

Tanzania Official Seed Certification Agency (TOSCA) is responsible for inspecting the fields and the final product.  

Farmers sell the seed produced locally and labelled as “Quality Declared Seed” with simple packaging at a reduced price.