THE Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) network has pledged to work closely with the government and private stakeholders to promote the use of improved, climate-resilient seeds and modern farming methods.

Ipyana Mwakasaka, a representative of AGRA’s resident director, said at the national seed stakeholders’ meeting here yesterday that this engagement is part of efforts to revolutionise Tanzania’s agricultural landscape and increase food production.

The alliance has identified seed systems as a key area for investment in order to drive agricultural transformation—an effort that will support farmers in transitioning from traditional to modern and more productive farming practices, he said.

It chiefly seeks to support efforts to improve access to quality seeds, strengthen the capacity of agricultural experts, promote research and empower smallholder farmers, he said.

AGRA seeks to enhance the production of seeds for various crops, expanding research on early-maturing and climate-resilient seeds, while seeking to improve the distribution systems for high-quality seeds.

It similarly works to raise awareness among farmers on the correct use of improved seeds, supporting seed quality control and promoting the adoption of best agricultural practices, he explained.

He expressed AGRA’s firm commitment to supporting the government’s 10/30 Agenda, in particular over youth participation in agriculture via the presidential initiative for ‘Building a Better Tomorrow: Youth Initiative for Agribusiness (BBT-YIA).

The flagship initiative is meant to empower youth by providing access to resources, knowledge and entrepreneurial opportunities in agriculture, he said, noting that AGRA’s support will complement this effort by ensuring young farmers have access to quality seeds and the technical know-how to improve productivity.

Hussein Bashe, the minister, as well as members of the Industry, Trade, Agriculture and Livestock standing committee of the National Assembly was at the meeting, airing the need for intense participation by seed stakeholders from the private sector and development organisations.

Agricultural sector growth is driven by increased public investment and policy reforms aimed at enhancing the sector, he said, testifying to significant transformation in agriculture.

“The investments we are making today will yield positive outcomes, even if we are not there to witness them ourselves. What matters most is that we lay a strong foundation for national food security,” he declared.

Agriculture is a promising economic frontier for the youth and the government is committed to removing barriers that hinder their participation, he said at the event which underpinned major priorities for agro-sector policy.

Increasing availability of improved seeds, strengthening seed quality control systems, greater farmer awareness about proper seed use were cited, while stakeholders examined the role of innovation and public-private partnerships in scaling up seed production, the minister added.