I’ve witnessed firsthand the significant role Iowa State University’s Global Seed Programs play in shaping seed systems around the world. Over the years, we’ve taken bold strides in international engagement so that our global footprint now extends to over 80 countries, primarily in the developing regions of Asia and Africa, where the need for sustainable seed solutions is paramount.
Our work is driven by the pressing needs of diverse countries. We receive requests from the highlands of Uzbekistan, where an experiment station seeks to improve seed storage longevity, to Gambia, where quality control officials strive to establish seed laboratories for underserved regions. These requests fuel our mission: to help nations develop robust seed systems that ensure quality seeds in the hands of smallholder farmers. We build alliances with governments, NGOs, seed trade associations, and research and development organizations to facilitate access to vital resources and expertise.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is convening stakeholders in dialogues, such as the recent seminar-workshop in Ethiopia for East and West African seed authorities. We helped participants outline concrete steps to advance their national seed investment plans. It’s remarkable to see how we can nudge these initiatives forward and provide the necessary incentives for proper action.
Success stories showcase the transformative impact of our efforts. In northern Ghana, we collaborated on a USAID-assisted project to build three seed laboratories that brought seed testing to socio-economically depressed areas. This effort has made seed quality testing more accessible to farmers. The Seed Enterprise Management Institute we established in Nairobi has become a hub for seed education in East Africa, equipping individuals with the skills and knowledge to thrive.
Yet the challenges remain formidable. Access to quality seeds for small-scale farmers is still a significant hurdle. Any combination of factors may collude to deny farmers the benefit of good seeds and improved genetics.
At its core, our global initiatives are grounded in the belief that achieving seed security in the world requires a focus on building capacity and empowering local seed systems. The importance of Iowa State’s global programs lies not just in helping to advance seed science, but in our commitment to fostering partnerships that improve livelihoods and food security. We’re holding the line on this commitment because investing in global seed systems also yields local dividends.
