USAID Commits USD $9.95 Million to Strengthen African Seed Systems through CESSA

USAID has announced a contribution of USD $9.95 million to support the Centre of Excellence for Seed Systems in Africa (CESSA), a key initiative aimed at strengthening seed systems across the continent. The funding aligns with the African Union’s (AU) Seed Sector Action Plan (2020–2030) and the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP), reaffirmed during the recent AU Extraordinary Summit in Kampala, Uganda.

CESSA, which serves as a central hub for accelerating functional seed systems, will use the funding to address weaknesses in seed production, commercialization, and quality assurance, with a focus on food security in drought-prone regions. This initiative will also raise farmer awareness and enhance sector coordination to ensure the delivery of improved seed varieties across Africa.

Dr. Agnes Kalibata, President of AGRA, highlighted the critical importance of resilient seed systems for food security and economic growth, stating, “Strengthening Africa’s seed systems is a priority for resilience and inclusive growth. AGRA is committed to working with USAID and partners through CESSA to support this continental agenda.”

Initial Investments

As part of the funding, AGRA announced a three-year investment of USD $3 million in Seeds2B Africa, a social enterprise based in Kenya. The initiative will focus on improving smallholder farmers’ access to stress-tolerant and nutrient-dense seeds in Kenya, Malawi, and Tanzania. Seeds2B Africa aims to commercialize market-preferred seed varieties, expand access, and build the capacity of local seed companies.

“This initiative will enhance resilience, boost productivity, and improve livelihoods by equipping farmers with high-quality seeds and innovative tools,” said Tony Gathungu, CEO of Seeds2B Africa.

Progress and Future Plans

Since its founding in 2006, AGRA has supported the development of 659 improved seed varieties and collaborated with 119 seed companies in 18 African countries, benefiting over 25.1 million farmers. With CESSA’s formation two years ago, efforts have intensified to build ecosystems that accelerate farmers’ access to improved seeds.

Over the past year, AGRA conducted seed system assessments in 11 African countries using its Seed System Assessment Tool (SeedSAT). These assessments have informed the development of National Seed Investment Plans, providing governments with actionable strategies to enhance their seed sectors.

The funding announcement underscores the AU Summit’s broader commitment to catalyzing agricultural transformation and positioning Africa as a global leader in food security.