Tanzania’s Certified Seed Drive Fuels Agricultural Gains and Food Security

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Tanzania is making notable strides toward agricultural self-sufficiency and national food security, marked by a sharp rise in the use of certified improved seeds — from 50,750 tonnes in 2021/22 to 72,031.9 tonnes in 2023/24.

This progress is the result of strategic partnerships among the Tanzania Official Seed Certification Institute (TOSCI), the Ministry of Agriculture, and private sector stakeholders. Their joint efforts have focused on enhancing access to quality seeds, strengthening regulatory oversight, and expanding the reach of certified varieties across the country.

TOSCI Director General Nyasebwa Chimagu told Daily News that the agency has ramped up activities over the past four years to bolster seed sector performance, aiming to improve farm productivity, ensure food stability, and raise farmer incomes. Certified seed production rose from 34,799 tonnes in 2021/22 to 56,114.5 tonnes in 2023/24, now making up 78 per cent of all certified seed in Tanzania.

He credited the expansion to supportive government policies that have attracted both domestic and international investments in seed production. The land designated for seed cultivation has soared from 10,674 hectares in 2014/15 to 99,885 hectares in 2023/24.

Scientific research has played a vital role in this transformation. Through collaboration with seed companies, the Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI) has helped develop high-yield, drought-resistant, and pest-tolerant seed varieties, boosting agricultural resilience. We now offer farmers improved seed varieties that align with modern farming needs, Chimagu noted.

TOSCI has also enhanced its seed testing and certification protocols to ensure only high-quality seeds reach farmers. The number of officially registered seed varieties grew from 431 in 2015/16 to 604 by 2019/20 — a testament to ongoing innovation and stronger regulatory systems.

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Internationally, TOSCI’s recognition is growing. The institute, based in Morogoro, is accredited by the International Seed Testing Association (ISTA) and participates in the OECD Seed Certification Schemes. This global endorsement enables Tanzanian-certified seeds to be exported and recognised abroad. Tanzania is securing its food systems while also positioning itself to supply agricultural markets beyond its borders.