Siphakeme .Mnindwa
Sikhulekelani Moyo, [email protected]
THE Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), in partnership with the Seed Services Institute, has procured two seed germination chambers worth US$20 000 to enhance seed testing and quality systems in the country.
Germination chambers are designed for the rapid planting, seeding and growth of plants used in scientific experiments.
Providing the optimum environment for seedling production can decrease germination time, improve uniformity and increase the number of seeds that germinate.
In an interview, on the sidelines of the ongoing meeting to review and update the Seed Certification Regulatory Frameworks in Bulawayo, FAO representative, Mr Zwelo Ndebele, said one of their thrusts is to contribute to the institutional strengthening of Government departments.
“Through our partnership with the Seed Services Institute, which is under the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, we have managed to source two germination chambers, which are valued at about US$20 000,” said Mr Ndebele.
“These assets will enable the Seeds Services Institute to improve on their seed testing capacity. They were using manual and old equipment, which was not very efficient.
“By improving seed certification capacity, it will enable the institute and the Government of Zimbabwe in general to be able to meet the standards when it comes to seed certification to meet both regional and international standards.”
Mr Ndebele said if the process of seed certification is improved, this will ensure that farmers have access to good quality seeds, which will contribute to improved crop production, leading to improved food security in the country.
In a world where climate change is no longer a distant threat but a reality, experts say it is imperative for Zimbabwe to embrace sustainable and innovative practices in its industries and seed production is one of the key sectors that need to be looked into.
Innovative seed production will see farmers defying the climate change odds, and managing to produce food for the nation without being much affected by the fluctuating rain patterns.
Meanwhile, the ministry through the Department of Research and Specialist Services is in the process of reviewing and updating the Seed Certification Regulatory Frameworks in a bid to align it with regional and international standards and seed certification bodies.
This development will enhance the quality of seeds produced in the country at the same time improving food production and food security.
The event, which started Monday in Bulawayo will end on Friday, when the official opening will be held. Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Professor Obert Jiri, is expected to officiate. —@SikhulekelaniM1
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