Quality seeds are among the key elements in intensifying agricultural production. Unfortunately, in Burundi, according to the latest estimates from the agricultural survey, less than 10% of farmers use improved seeds. 90% still use either all-purpose crops or previous harvests. How can the seed production system work properly? Analysis.

Let's start with an example to start with: a hectare of maize sown with “any kind” seeds produces barely 700 kg, that sown with improved seeds an average of 3 to 4 tons/ha and that of hybrids an average of 7 tons/ha. According to a study, seed quality contributes up to 40% to increased yields. From this point of view, it is necessary that special attention be paid to them.

However, in Burundi, the situation is dramatic. Improved seeds are very weak. The numbers bear witness to this. They represent between 5 and 10% of all seeds used in the country. As a result, from potatoes to maize to rice, beans, sweet potatoes, wheat and others, good quality seeds are becoming more and more inaccessible. This, unfortunately, weighs not only on farmers, but also on the country's economy in general.