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By Clarisse Niwemugeni
The spotlight is shining on Rwanda as the host of the 2025 African Seed Trade Association (AFSTA) Congress, a gathering that marks a pivotal moment for the seed sector in Africa. With over 300 delegates from 48 countries, the congress, which kicked off on March 3, 2025, at the Serena Hotel in Kigali, brings together policymakers, seed traders, and industry leaders to explore the future of seed production and trade across the continent.
This year’s theme, “25 years strong: Innovating Quality Seed for Africa’s Sustainable Agriculture,” underscores the need for transformation in the seed sector, not only to tackle the challenges posed by climate change and population growth but also to boost food security and economic resilience. Rwanda, as the host of this important event, is positioned at the forefront of the conversation on agricultural innovation, thanks to its commitment to building a vibrant and competitive seed sector.
Rwanda’s Commitment to Seed Sector Development
Rwanda’s agriculture is the backbone of its economy, contributing significantly to employment and GDP. Recognizing the vital role seeds play in driving agricultural productivity, Rwanda has implemented various policies and regulatory reforms aimed at improving seed quality, accessibility, and sustainability. These reforms, which align with international standards, aim to position Rwanda as a leader in seed production and trade.
In his opening speech, Eric Rwigamba, Rwanda’s Minister of State for Agriculture and Animal Resources, emphasized the importance of seeds as a foundation for agricultural growth and climate resilience. He highlighted Rwanda’s dedication to modernizing its seed sector, with a focus on both local and regional markets. By aligning its regulatory systems with international standards, such as the International Seed Testing Association (ISTA) accreditation for its National Seed Testing Laboratory, Rwanda is creating an environment conducive to the growth of a robust seed industry.
Public-Private Partnerships Driving Seed Industry Growth
A key component of Rwanda’s success in seed sector development is its emphasis on public-private partnerships (PPPs). These collaborations have allowed Rwanda to integrate innovations and technical expertise from various stakeholders, both local and international. The National Seed Association of Rwanda (NSAR), a crucial partner in this development, has worked alongside the government, private companies, and international organizations to improve seed quality and availability.
Innocent Namuhoranye, Chairperson of NSAR, stressed that Rwanda’s approach to seed sector development is shifting from being a mere market actor to a market enabler. Through PPPs, Rwanda is not only enhancing seed production but also improving the regulatory environment to ensure that high-quality seeds are accessible to farmers across the region.
Namuhoranye pointed out that while some seeds are still imported due to the diverse climates and soil conditions across African countries, Rwanda has made significant strides in developing locally adapted seed varieties, particularly in maize, and is focusing efforts on finding solutions to climate change-related challenges in potato seed production.
Innovations in Seed Technology and Research
One of the key areas of focus for Rwanda’s seed sector is innovation in seed technology. Rwanda has become one of leaders in corn seed production, and it is now turning its attention to addressing challenges in potato seed development. A major project, in collaboration with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Africa Agricultural Technology Foundation, and Rwanda Agriculture Board (RAB), is dedicated to finding potato seed varieties that can thrive under changing climate conditions. This initiative reflects Rwanda’s proactive approach to addressing food security in the face of climate change and its determination to be a hub for agricultural research and innovation.
Regional and International Cooperation
Rwanda’s commitment to seed sector development goes beyond its borders. As a member of the East African Community (EAC), COMESA, and the African Union, Rwanda plays a crucial role in promoting intra-African seed trade and harmonizing seed regulations. The country is actively working on creating a seamless regulatory framework that will facilitate the movement of high-quality seeds across Africa, enhancing food security and agricultural productivity continent-wide.
The congress in Kigali is not just a celebration of Rwanda’s progress but also a forum for collaboration and knowledge-sharing. It is an opportunity for industry players from across Africa and beyond to exchange ideas, form partnerships, and explore new technologies that can drive the seed sector forward.
The Path Forward: Scaling Up Innovation and Investments
As Rwanda celebrates AFSTA’s 25th anniversary, the country stands as a model for how concerted efforts, innovation, and strong partnerships can transform the agricultural sector. The government’s vision aligns with Rwanda’s broader national development goals, such as the National Agricultural Policy and Vision 2050, which emphasize agricultural transformation, food security, and climate resilience.
Looking ahead, Rwanda’s continued focus on research and development, investment in new seed technologies, and regulatory reforms will be crucial in shaping the future of the seed industry. By fostering collaboration between governments, private sector players, farmers, and researchers, Rwanda is paving the way for a more resilient, sustainable, and food-secure Africa.
As the congress unfolds, it will undoubtedly lead to meaningful discussions and actionable solutions that will not only benefit Rwanda but also have a lasting impact on the entire African continent’s agricultural sector. Through innovation, collaboration, and shared commitment, the seed industry in Africa can become a key driver of sustainable development and economic growth, ensuring a brighter future for all.
