Combining hands-on support for local seed companies with policy advocacy - The case of A3 Seed in South Sudan

Just before heading to the weekend, I had an interesting conversation with Mrs. Robinah Duku, Policy Officer for Food and Nutrition Security (FNS) at the Netherlands Embassy in Juba, South Sudan. Mrs. Duku manages a broad portfolio of food and nutrition security projects including the A3 Seed project.

How has the Embassy’s food and nutrition security portfolio been developed?

We encourage synergies and collaboration as much as possible between projects. We also work in specific geographic areas that are relatively stable.

For example, the A3 Seed project is following a more private sector-led approach with several companies implementing activities. Most of the time, FNS initiatives are initiated from a public perspective with a focus on resilient seed systems. As such, we also fund an FAO project that focuses on enhancing seed security.  

The A3 Seed and the FAO program complement each other. A learning agenda has been developed to combine the different approaches, development of policies and other interventions. We also organize monitoring visits in which all partners from the projects join and we encourage learning from each other. We also encourage exchanges with non-Dutch projects (e.g. projects funded by the World Bank and the EU).

Can you tell me more about the A3 Seed project?

The A3 Seed project is implemented by IFDC and KIT. It is a five year project, which started in 2021 and will be running until 2025. The project focuses on developing the seed sector of South Sudan and follows a private sector-led approach. This means that it includes support for seed companies. Through the project, seed companies receive training. The project also involves the central and local government, especially the Ministries of Agriculture at national and local level. The seed sector in South Sudan is still under development and the project supports the government in the development of seed policies, which is very relevant for a sustainable sector.

The project also contributes better seed quality in South Sudan. At the moment, most seeds are still imported from neighbouring countries and the Netherlands. We want to somehow reduce the import of seeds and increase local production and distribution. In terms of climate resilience, it is also important to have more locally produced seeds that are available and can cope with the climatic conditions of South Sudan.

A3 Seeds also looks at advocacy related humanitarian aid. Through the humanitarian channel many seeds are imported from elsewhere. Advocacy is put in place to convince agencies like FAO to increase local procurement of seeds. Local production should be at least 50% of all seeds accessed by farmers. We know that the humanitarian seed channel is not sustainable, but it can be a start for farmers to  get used to good quality seed

What is the specific role and added value of Dutch partners in your project?

For the past decade, the Netherlands has been a crucial supporter of the seed sector in South Sudan. Key to our progress is the role played by the Royal Tropical Institute (KIT) in conducting cutting-edge research and enhancing seed system resilience across diverse agronomic zones. KIT has a very hands-on practical approach and has been successful in implementations in seven distinct agro-ecological zones. Overall, the partnership with the Netherlands and the contributions of KIT have been pivotal in transforming the seed sector and ensuring sustainable agricultural development.

What has been your biggest success so far?

We see that the project already has an influence on the policy environment. The discussions about seed provision have become more profound and humanitarian partners have become aware about their role. We are also pleased to see an increase in the amount of seeds sold, with seed production doubling over the past three years. This accomplishment highlights the project's effectiveness and potential for further growth.

 As we continue to progress, we anticipate even greater achievements. To give a concrete example: during one of our learning events, we organize a fair and one local seed producer was able to sell over 50 tons of seeds within less than half a day. We are proud to observe that farmers are more interested to buy quality seed. If this dynamic continues, there is a big chance that farmers buy seeds and not just depend on seed aid.

How does the project contribute to SDG 5: gender equality?

Inclusion and gender equality are complex objectives. It is promising to see that the outgrower schemes managed to have involved 40-45% women. And the fact that we now have two seed companies that are run by women is a positive step forward. Though there is still a gap in leadership positions of most seed companies.

What would you have done differently in retrospect if you could start all over again?

Moving forward, one crucial area of focus for seed companies should be diversifying the types of seeds they produce. Currently, the emphasis is mostly on cereals like maize and sorghum. However, there is also potential in vegetable seed production. Investing in vegetable seed production broadens the crop portfolio of companies catering to different market demands and consumer preferences. This further contributes to food and nutrition security in the country. Venturing into vegetable seed production requires more resources, including expertise, infrastructure, and financing. As such, stakeholders should actively support and invest in this initiative to ensure its success.

What advice would you give to other seed sector project implementers?

In the seed sector, considering the entire crop value chain is crucial for sustainable and effective development. Focusing solely on seed production without taking into account the market chain can lead to inefficiencies and missed opportunities.

Regarding policy advocacy activities, it's essential to adapt strategies to the specific context of each region. In contexts where the policy environment is weak, collaboration with agencies like the UN and governmental entities, presents an opportunity to influence policy. Engaging with these stakeholders can lead to a more coherent policy framework. Working independently, in isolation or ‘in a silo’ may limit the impact and effectiveness of the initiatives. Instead, embracing a collaborative and inclusive approach can bring together diverse perspectives, expertise, and resources, leading to more robust and transformative outcomes.

For you personally, what are some of the reasons that you enjoy working in the seed sector?

I have a background in a farming family with a substantial farm. Seeds are the fundamental building blocks of agriculture, and their role in ensuring food production cannot be overstated. My experience and connection to the agricultural sector provide insights and passion for the work that I do. By combining my passion with skills and knowledge, I can contribute in shaping the future of agriculture, making a positive impact on both local communities and the broader agricultural landscape.