Our Initiatives
In order to build resilient seed systems that can operate effectively, including under conflictive circumstances, there is a need for a coherent portfolio of (complementary and mutually supportive) seed sector interventions, which could be implemented at national and subregional levels. In order to promote and facilitate such a coherent approach, it has been proposed to establish so-called seed knowledge hubs (which could operate at national or sub-regional, or regional level): a kind of service platform, that is demand-driven and provides intelligence and technical backstopping to farming communities, national and international research programs, development actors, seed companies and policy decision-makers, on resilient seed systems tools, methods, information sources, data management, policy design and compliance with applicable regulations and agreements (The Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, and the Wageningen Centre for Development Innovation. 2021).
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Introduction and review of the Seed Hub concept
Join us for an interactive event that will serve as a dynamic introduction to the Seed Hub for key stakeholders, including government officials, private sector representatives, and civil society leaders, as well as esteemed delegates from the Horn of Africa. The primary objectives of this gathering are to assess the feasibility of establishing such a hub, and if the outcome is favorable, to delineate a trajectory leading to its realization. The proposed location for this engaging endeavor is Juba, with a schedule set for June 2022. The two-day event will feature an insightful field visit, followed by a day of captivating presentations and stimulating discussions.
Following the event, from July 2022 to December 2022, we will undertake the meticulous design of a trajectory that could facilitate the establishment of the Seed Hub. This crucial step will involve thorough planning, analysis, and coordination among all involved parties.
Finally, in February 2023, we will organize the inaugural Seed Hub Exchange Event, which will provide an exceptional platform for sharing experiences, disseminating knowledge, and exchanging seeds. This collaborative occasion will undoubtedly foster mutual learning and growth, while reinforcing the Seed Hub's mission and vision.
Strengthening Community Seed Banks
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Get ready for an exhilarating exchange of experiences featuring the community seed bank 'champions,' where they will reflect on their achievements, challenges, and opportunities. These invaluable discussions will take place in July 2022 and January 2023, fostering collective learning and growth.
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In September 2022, we will carry out a participatory evaluation of the nascent community seed banking activities led by the TMT+ and ICP Horti Seeds teams, in collaboration with the small grantees. This assessment will offer valuable insights and help refine our approach to better serve the communities involved.
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Prepare to witness the cultivation of a new generation of leaders, as we provide training to a select group of professionals (50% women) in the technical, organizational, and policy aspects of community seed banking. These trailblazers will emerge as community seed bank leaders, equipped with comprehensive manuals for facilitators and farmers. The training sessions are slated for October 2022 and April 2023.
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Lastly, between September 2022 and March 2023, we will meticulously draft an institutional framework to bolster community seed banks. This vital foundation will serve as a cornerstone for the ongoing development and success of these essential initiatives.
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Designing a Seed Quality Assurance System
Experience the transformative power of a robust Quality Assurance (QA) system, a critical component in fortifying crop production resilience and bolstering food security. By ensuring seed quality, we can significantly elevate the caliber of seeds traded and exchanged within markets and communities. The WCDI team, with an impressive track record in designing and implementing such systems across Asia and Africa, is poised to offer unparalleled expertise in capacity building and establishment. The three fundamental pillars of seed QA include policy support, field QA, and lab QA (seed testing), all of which are integral to the Seed Certification system, which in turn drives Seed QA in tandem with seed policy and law.
Anticipated Outcomes:
• The formation of a highly skilled team of experts capable of executing QA activities, including field inspections and seed testing. • A versatile team with the capacity to train other partners in seed testing and field inspections, fostering a sustainable approach to knowledge sharing. • The development of a draft seed policy through a participatory process, ensuring diverse perspectives and stakeholder engagement.
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Project Name (to be added)
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