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Enhancing Access and Utilization of Quality Seed for improved Food Security in Kenya
Author(s): Ayieko,Miltone;Tschirley,David
Introduction
The overall objective of the study is to enhance seed access and utilization in Kenya. The
specific objectives were thus to: (1) assess the structure of the seed system in Kenya and
estimate the magnitude of the informal seed source; (2) assess the role of the informal seed
systems in improved seed access and utilization and how they can be integrated into the
formal seed programs; and, (3) review the seed industry regulatory and legislative framework
and propose policy options to improve availability, access and utilization of improved seed.
Data for the study is drawn from the Tegemeo Rural household panel data, the stockist
interviews and discussions with key stakeholders.
Findings of the study indicate that the informal seed system is an important source of seed for
farmers. The study identifies some successful approaches to seed access among farmers,
including positive selection, contract farming, community-based and marker-led approaches
to seed access and utilization. The study also analyses the returns to use of improved seed for
a number of crops and its implication on seed use. The seed industry and regulatory
framework is reviewed to examine bottlenecks facing private sector investment in seed
production and distribution. Policies options to establish a seed market with an effective
demand large enough to induce the needed investment and create the competition required to
establish a viable and efficient seed industry are explored.
Language: English
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 Enhancing Access and Utilization of Quality Seed for improved Food Security in Kenya - Pdf
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