Experts advise Tanzania to increase investment in quality seed production, agricultural research to achieve higher productivity 

MOROGORO: TANZANIA must increase investment in quality seed production, agricultural research, and innovation if it is to achieve higher farm productivity, strengthen food security, and build a more resilient agricultural sector, experts have said.

The call emerged during a high-level dialogue on investment in seed development projects and agricultural technology innovation organized by Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA), bringing together researchers, financial institutions, seed producers, and regulators to chart a path toward a more productive agricultural future.

Speaking on behalf of the SUA Vice Chancellor, the university’s Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Research and Consultancy, Prof Maulid Mwatawala said sustainable agricultural growth depends heavily on investment in practical technologies, scientific research, and innovations that address challenges facing farmers.

He noted that improved seed varieties and modern farming technologies have the potential to significantly increase crop yields, lower production costs, and help farmers adapt to the growing impacts of climate change.

According to Prof Mwatawala, strengthening collaboration among research institutions, government agencies, development partners, and private sector investors is essential for accelerating agricultural transformation and ensuring that innovations reach farmers across the country.

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“Agriculture remains the backbone of Tanzania’s economy. Continued investment in research and innovation will not only improve productivity but also create opportunities for farmers to participate more competitively in local and international markets,” he said.

He added that SUA will continue playing a central role in generating knowledge, developing technologies, and training skilled professionals capable of driving growth across the agricultural value chain.

The university is also committed to ensuring that research findings are translated into practical solutions that can benefit farmers on the ground.

The discussion highlighted the critical role of quality seeds in increasing agricultural output at a time when Tanzania is seeking to modernize its farming sector and strengthen food systems.

Director General of the Tanzania Official Seed Certification Institute (TOSCI), Nyasebwa Chimagu, said the institute is intensifying inspections and oversight of seed production and distribution systems to protect farmers from counterfeit and substandard seeds.

He warned that fake seeds continue to pose a serious threat to agricultural productivity and can lead to significant losses for farmers, ultimately affecting national food security goals.

“Farmers deserve access to certified seeds that meet required standards. We will continue to enforce regulations and take action against anyone involved in the production or sale of fake seeds,” Chimagu said.

He noted that strengthening quality assurance systems remains essential in building confidence among farmers and investors while supporting the growth of Tanzania’s seed industry.

The importance of improving access to agricultural financing also featured prominently during the discussions.

Participants agreed that quality seeds, modern technologies, research-driven innovation, and accessible financing form the foundation of a productive and competitive agricultural sector.

They observed that as Tanzania seeks to increase agricultural output and create more value within the sector, sustained investment in these areas will be crucial in unlocking growth, improving livelihoods, and ensuring long-term food security.

The stakeholders further stressed that stronger partnerships between universities, financial institutions, regulators, and private sector actors will be necessary to translate research and innovation into tangible benefits for farmers and the wider economy.

With agriculture employing the majority of Tanzanians and contributing significantly to the country’s economic development, participants said investing in quality seeds and agricultural innovation is no longer an option but a necessity for achieving sustainable growth and prosperity.