AGRICULTURAL NEWS - Researchers believe they uncovered a promising opportunity for reaching smallholder farmers in developing countries with crops that can help them respond to challenges such as climate change and malnutrition with important implications for the way seed sales and distribution are organised in sub-Saharan Africa in particular.
For decades, scientists have developed new crop varieties aimed at responding to the most persistent environmental and nutritional challenges faced by smallholders. But many of these have not made it to the people who need them most – the farmers themselves.
That’s because the method for disseminating new seeds neglects some of the most important outlets used by smallholders, according to research published in the journal Food Security.
That’s because the method for disseminating new seeds neglects some of the most important outlets used by smallholders, according to research published in the journal Food Security.
The paper explains that modern crop seeds are typically sold by a relatively small group of licenced agro-dealers clustered in major towns and cities. The seeds are certified for quality and sold to farmers in sacks.
Informal, off-the-grid markets more accessible
But following what is thought to be the largest study of seed transactions to date, researchers found that the majority of farmers in these countries do not buy seed from these so-called “formal” markets.
Instead, the majority prefer to use local market stalls, independent traders and even “mom-and-pop” stores. These informal markets, while sometimes considered off-the-grid in terms of location, are often much more accessible for many farmers, especially women.
Informal, off-the-grid markets more accessible
But following what is thought to be the largest study of seed transactions to date, researchers found that the majority of farmers in these countries do not buy seed from these so-called “formal” markets.
Instead, the majority prefer to use local market stalls, independent traders and even “mom-and-pop” stores. These informal markets, while sometimes considered off-the-grid in terms of location, are often much more accessible for many farmers, especially women.
Even though they don’t offer certified seeds, many farmers prefer informal markets, partly because they can buy from people they know and purchase in smaller quantities, enabling them to try different varieties at low risk.
