[Rwanda] Association Launched to Boost Seed Quality

The National Seed Association of Rwanda (NSAR) has been launched by the Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources, Geraldine Mukeshimana.

The association brings together seed traders, multipliers, agro dealers and institutions. Its aim is to ensure a reliable and sustained supply of quality seeds to farmers.

Innocent Namuhoranye, the chairman of NSAR says that farmers have been complaining of high prices because seed availability largely depends on importation.

"This has impacted on productivity as we prefer to use our own poor quality seeds. But now that there's an association comprising people from different sectors, we shall put our knowledge together and achieve greater productivity," he said, adding that they want to increase usage of good seed varieties.

Minagri hopes the association will increase production by strengthening partnership with the private sector. Crop productivity is expected to improve in quality and quantity, leading to sustainable national and household food security.

"A successful agricultural industry in any country requires many players - both formal and informal - to work together. We hope this will allow the country to have improved seed security and reduce the drain on government foreign exchange reserves," Minister Mukeshimana said.

The event was also attended by different regional associations and institutes which shared their experiences.

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