Dar es Salaam. The Agricultural Seed Agency (ASA) has called on farmers to adopt certified, climate-resilient seeds, saying the move is essential to increasing agricultural productivity, minimising crop losses and strengthening Tanzania's food security as climate change continues to disrupt farming.
Speaking at the ongoing Nanenane Agricultural Exhibition at the Dr John Malecela Grounds in Dodoma, ASA chief executive officer, Mr Innocent Masaka, said the agency has stepped up the production and distribution of improved seed varieties developed to withstand changing climatic conditions across different parts of the country. He said the improved seeds, particularly for maize and other staple crops, have been developed through research to help farmers maintain production despite erratic rainfall and prolonged dry spells.
"We continue to encourage farmers to use certified, climate-resilient seeds because they are the foundation of higher productivity, improved incomes and national food security," said Engineer Masaka.
He cautioned that although access to quality seeds has improved, some farmers continue to buy uncertified products, exposing themselves to poor harvests and avoidable financial losses.
Mr Masaka urged farmers to ensure that every seed package they purchase bears the seal of the Tanzania Official Seed Certification Institute (TOSCI), which confirms that the seeds have been inspected and meet national quality standards.
"The TOSCI certification mark assures farmers that the seeds have been tested and approved. Buying certified seed is an investment that protects farmers from unnecessary losses while delivering better returns," he said.
He said ASA is using this year's Nanenane exhibition to showcase improved seed varieties while educating farmers on modern farming technologies and good agricultural practices that can enhance productivity.
According to him, the agency is participating in all nine Nanenane exhibition zones, including the national exhibition in Dodoma and zonal events in Arusha, Tabora, Simiyu, Mwanza, Kagera, Mbeya, Morogoro and Lindi.
He said the nationwide participation reflects ASA's commitment to ensuring farmers across the country have access to high-quality certified seeds that improve crop yields, strengthen resilience to climate change and support sustainable agricultural development.
