The partners collaborated to examine existing investments, new approaches, and current programs towards increasing the availability of new seed technologies, stimulating market development, enhancing seed availability, and building a framework for a sustainable seed sector in Southern Africa. Originally, the partners intended to limit their engagement to seed companies and the national seed trade associations in Angola, Malawi, Mozambique, South Africa, and Zambia.  By the end of the HED funding period, however, they had successfully extended their collaborative efforts to the other nine member countries of the Southern Africa Development Community.  All 14 SADC countries approved the partnership-designed agreements for the harmonization of bio-safety standards, seed certification standards for 18 seed crops, and regional variety release procedures.  The partners also developed SADC-approved seed certification accreditation manuals, a procedures manual for regional seed variety release, and procedures manuals for seed import and export.  Additionally, they strengthened FANRPAN’s governance systems and formal links with related institutions in the region.  FANRPAN, based out of South Africa, was established in 2001 to promote agricultural policies intended to reduce poverty, increase food security, and engender sustainable agricultural development among SADC countries.

"Breaking Down Barriers To Seed Trade In Southern Africa"