Staff Reporter
Africa’s leading seed producer, Seed Co, celebrated its 85th anniversary in Harare, reaffirming its commitment to agricultural innovation, food security, and economic growth.
Speaking at the event yesterday, Seed Co Group CEO Morgan Nzwere highlighted the company’s role in transforming African agriculture.
"Tonight, we celebrate 85 years of growth, innovation, and impact. But let me ask you this: What does it mean to grow? For a farmer, growth is more than just planting a seed. It’s preparing the soil, adapting to the seasons, and nurturing every stage until harvest. For Seed Co, growth is not just about expanding beyond borders, it is about innovating beyond expectations, ensuring that we provide food security to nations while nourishing generations."
He emphasised Seed Co’s impact beyond just seed production.
"We are not just a company that sells seeds. We are a movement that feeds nations, transforms economies, and empowers generations."
Founded in 1940 in Zimbabwe, Seed Co has expanded operations to over 20 countries, developing high-yield, climate-smart seed varieties to support farmers across the continent.
"Africa’s biggest challenge is unpredictable weather. Farmers face droughts, floods, and shifting seasons that threaten food security. Seed Co has developed drought tolerant maize, wheat, and soybean varieties, increasing yields by up to 30% in dry conditions," Nzwere said.
He acknowledged the presence of Seed Co’s technical partners, including Regis Fournier, Head of the Field Seeds Organisation.
"Our global research partnerships ensure we stay ahead in developing climate-smart, pest-resistant, and high-yield seeds," he added.
Nzwere also spoke on the company’s efforts in empowering smallholder farmers.
"Over five million farmers have benefited from our Small-Scale Farmer Training And Input Support Program, equipping them with knowledge and resources to increase productivity. Our Women in Agriculture Initiative in Zimbabwe and Mozambique has empowered 50,000 female farmers, helping them become agricultural entrepreneurs. In Ghana, Tanzania, and Malawi, our contract farming programs have created stable incomes for thousands of rural farmers."
On regional food security, Nzwere cited Seed Co’s role in the SADC Seed Harmonisation Initiative and highlighted key achievements.
"In 2023, we facilitated the export of 600 metric tons of hybrid maize seed from Zambia to the DRC, helping reduce food shortages while boosting farmer incomes," he said.
Through partnerships with AGRA (Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa) in Nigeria and Ghana, Seed Co has also strengthened local seed production, reducing reliance on imports.
Seed Co Board Chairperson Pearson Gowero reaffirmed the company’s commitment to agricultural development.
"As we celebrate this historic milestone, we also set our sights on the future. We will continue expanding our reach, ensuring every farmer, big or small, has access to the best seeds," Gowero said.
He emphasised Seed Co’s dedication to innovation and collaboration.
"We will lead the way in developing smarter, more resilient seed varieties for future generations. And we will remain a trusted partner to farmers, governments, and communities, working together to create a food-secure Africa," he added.
The company continues to expand its presence across Africa, ensuring that farmers have the best resources to increase productivity and drive economic growth.
