We proudly participated as the Platinum Sponsor of the 4th National Seed Congress, hosted by the Zambia Seed Trade Association (ZASTA) in Livingstone under the theme: “Sustainable, Resilient and Viable Seed Industry: Enhancing National Prosperity through Local and Transboundary Trade.”

The two-day congress provided an important platform to discuss the future of Zambia’s seed industry and the role of innovation, collaboration and policy in strengthening agricultural productivity and food security. 

The congress officially opened on Day Two with the Opening Ceremony, where we were honoured to deliver the first sponsor’s remarks through Coilard Hamusimbi, Board Director, representing the Board Chair. In his address, he reaffirmed Seed Co’s commitment to advancing Zambia’s seed industry through continued investment in research and innovation, quality seed production, climate-smart agriculture, and strong public-private partnerships.

He also underscored the importance of protecting farmers from counterfeit seed, improving access to genuine certified seed, and strengthening regional seed trade as key drivers of national prosperity.

Throughout the congress, discussions explored critical issues shaping the future of the seed sector, including biodiversity and trade, legislative and regulatory reforms, seed labelling and certification, innovations in maize and soybean breeding, Zambia’s seed delivery systems, findings from the 2025 Seed Sector Assessment Study, artificial intelligence in seed production, climate-smart agriculture, and strategies to combat counterfeit seed.

Rodrick Hamvumba, Head of Agronomy, spoke on the findings of Zambia’s 2025 Seed Sector Assessment Study, recommendations for strengthening the sector, and the growing challenge of counterfeit seed and its impact on local and regional markets.

Katende Chibwe, Vegetable Commercial Lead, focused on the opportunities and challenges within Zambia’s horticultural and vegetable seed subsector, highlighting pathways for sustainable growth.

On the second day, discussions continued with a focus on scaling innovation through the African Cereal and Legume Breeding Consortium (ACLBC), strengthening private sector participation in profitable seed businesses across Africa, and recognising the important contribution of women in Zambia’s seed industry.

Representing Seed Co, Grace Marie Kalungu, Head of Marketing, joined the panel discussion examining the factors influencing the success of women in the seed business.

As Platinum Sponsor, we are proud to have contributed to meaningful dialogue that supports a stronger, resilient and innovative seed industry. Through continued investment in research, quality seed production and strategic partnerships, We remain committed to empowering farmers and helping build a sustainable agricultural future for Zambia and the region.