The G7 and OECD have launched a joint initiative to strengthen seed certification in Africa. This will help improve seed quality, increase farmer incomes, and enhance agricultural productivity across the continent.
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| The G7 and OECD have launched a new initiative to improve seed certification in Africa, aiming to boost agricultural productivity, increase yields, and enhance food security. Symbolic image |
Paris, France - October 1, 2024:
A new initiative has been launched by the Group of Seven (G7) nations in collaboration with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) to enhance Africa's participation in the OECD seed certification scheme. This move aims to strengthen agricultural activities and contribute to economic development across the continent.
The G7-OECD Joint Initiative, announced during a meeting of G7 agriculture ministers in Syracuse on September 26-27, seeks to improve seed quality, increase yields, boost farmer incomes, and strengthen agricultural productivity in Africa. The OECD Seed Schemes provide an international framework for certifying agricultural seeds, ensuring their quality and facilitating trade across borders.
The initiative aims to expand the uptake of the seed certification scheme to up to 14 African countries over the next five years. Capacity-building activities will be implemented to help these countries meet global standards, facilitate access to quality seeds for farmers, improve livelihoods, and promote trade.
By strengthening seed certification, the initiative hopes to reduce fraud, enhance crop yields, and boost the growth potential of the agricultural sector in Africa. Better seeds can help farmers adapt to climate change, increase their incomes, and contribute to food security.
OECD Secretary-General Mathias Cormann emphasized the importance of quality seeds in building better food systems. He stated that the initiative holds the promise of making a substantial impact on African agriculture by providing farmers with affordable and accessible seeds that can withstand climate change, boost yields, and enhance food security.