Simon Mbuki - Livelihoods
Northern Region - World Vision Kenya
Cell: 0724986518




From:        "Okidi, Joseph (FAOKE)" <[log in to unmask]>
To:        [log in to unmask]
Date:        07/31/2014 10:46 AM
Subject:        Unsuitable crop parieties being provided to affected population in the form of seed aid in the horn of Africa region
Sent by:        The Community of Practice of Seed Security Assessments for the Horn of Africa <[log in to unmask]>




Dear All,
 
 

A lot of humanitarian and recovery work in food security in the Horn of Africa region involves provision of seed aid with significant direct seed distribution of seed sourced from the formal sector (seed companies). There have been concerns from some of the assisted famers in the recent past that some of the varieties are unsuitable (un-adapted and un-preferred). Many times famer’s seed are considered of poor quality by humanitarian actors, and therefore, the need to provide them with quality seeds of varieties which are improved – high yielding, disease resistant, drought tolerant etc.
 
1.      Do you agree that at times unsuitable varieties are being provided in the form of seed aid?  What is your experience with this? And do you think this can be improved? Yes. Most of the seed companies and research institutions have not been undertaking research across the ASALs regions to determine quality seeds suitable for certain regions. There is need for research institutions undertaking pilot studies on identified seeds for ASALS before promoting it.
 
2.      Do you think seed security of the crisis/disaster affected population is well assessed and analyzed before any intervention – If not how do you want this improved? No. Seed security assessment before the drought (preparedness phase) has not been addressed as one of the key components to facilitate quick recovery after the drought. This is a new concept that requires critical thinking to guide in DRR programming for food security.
 
3.      Are the views of the affected populations normally well taken into consideration when planning seed related interventions by humanitarian actors? No. The affected population normally have opportunities to air their views during project start up workshops. Documents and opinion leaders always gives critical information during project conceptualization stage.
 
Note: This e-discussion will run until 15th of August.
 
Regards,
 
Joseph Okidi
 
Seed System Specialist
FAO REOA
 
 



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