The Strengthening Emergency Preparedness and Response to Food Crisis (SEPAREF) project, implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) with funding from the African Development Bank (AfDB), has successfully strengthened seed systems and crisis preparedness in Burundi, Comoros, Somalia, and South Sudan. 

The project was designed as a strategic response to the global supply chain disruptions caused by the Russia–Ukraine War, focusing on local production as a shield against global shocks.

The project’s achievements were validated during a regional workshop held from 4 to 6 March 2026 in Nairobi, Kenya. 

Key results include the production of over 956 tonnes of Early Generation Seed (EGS), valued at USD 1.7 million, which provided farmers with much-needed climate- and drought-tolerant crop varieties. 

Furthermore, the initiative rehabilitated critical irrigation and storage facilities and supported over 250 local seed out-growers. 

In collaboration with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), the project also improved the capacity of national research institutions to maintain high standards for seed technology.

Beyond physical inputs, SEPAREF made significant institutional strides by establishing national seed councils and digital early warning platforms. 

These digital tools have already registered more than 160,000 farmers, providing them with real-time agricultural advisory services. 

Despite these gains, AfDB Regional Manager Pascal Sanginga warned that limited government budgets and donor dependency remain risks. 

Consequently, stakeholders have committed to a second phase of investment to transform these achievements into permanent national infrastructure and scale seed security efforts across the region.

Source: Access Agric