CIMMYT’s Role in Africa’s Seed Revolution: Highlights from AFSTA Congress 2026

23 April 2026, Africa: Africa’s agricultural future hinges on a simple but powerful input: seed.  As climate pressures intensify and global food demand rises, resilient seed systems are becoming the cornerstone of sustainable growth. 

 At the 26th Annual Congress of the African Seed Trade Association (AFSTA), stakeholders from across the globe gathered to explore how Africa’s seed sector can meet this challenge and how partnerships are driving transformation across the continent. 

 The Congress held at the Century City Conference Centre in Cape Town from March 23–25, 2026,  brought together over 500 participants under the theme: “Empowering Africa’s Future, One Seed at a Time.” 

 Meeting the growing demand for food 

 By 2050, the global population is projected to reach 9.2 billion, requiring food production to rise by as much as 70%. For Africa, this means scaling up staple crops like maize, wheat, sorghum, and millet through improved seed technologies. 

At the heart of this transformation lies access to quality, climate-resilient seed. Yet, a major gap remains. According to Yacouba Diallo (AFSTA president), only about 30% of farmers in Africa currently have access to improved seeds—underscoring both the challenge and the opportunity ahead. 

 Key questions continue to shape the sector: 

• Which crop varieties perform consistently across diverse environments?  
• How can demand for improved seeds be strengthened?  
• How can seed systems become more inclusive and efficient? 

 Partnerships driving progress 

From left to right, CIMMYT scientists Dr. Harish Gandhi (second) and Dr. Walter Chivasa (sixth) receive a certificate of appreciation in recognition of CIMMYT’s contributions to session presentations and panel discussions at the congress (photo:CIMMYT). 

AFSTA plays a central role in advancing Africa’s seed systems by supporting private seed companies and creating an enabling environment for trade, innovation, and growth. 

 Working alongside AFSTA, CIMMYT is accelerating agricultural transformation by linking cutting-edge research with private sector innovation. Its focus on maize, wheat, and dryland crops ensures that farmers have access to climate-resilient varieties that meet both local and global demand.”  Stronger, more specific description of CIMMYT’s role. 

 As demand for these crops rises due to population growth, urbanization, and shifting diets, collaboration between research institutions and the private sector is becoming increasingly important. 

 For further reading, see CIMMYT’s feature article in African Seed Magazine – African Seed Trade Association (AFSTA), Issue 12 (March 2026): 

“Get the Seed Right, and the Market Will Follow,” published by the African Seed Trade Association. 

Innovation on display 

 The congress made clear that Africa’s seed revolution will depend on stronger collaboration, bold innovation, and knowledge sharing. CIMMYT’s contributions at AFSTA 2026 highlight how research-driven partnerships can unlock resilient seed systems—ensuring that Africa’s farmers are equipped to feed a growing world. 

These innovations demonstrated how integrated approaches—combining advanced breeding, rigorous testing, and effective seed delivery systems—can support seed companies in developing and scaling competitive products. 

High-level delegates, including John Steenhuisen, visited the booth to engage with CIMMYT scientists and explore the latest advancements. 

During the official opening, the Minister underscored the importance of seeds in transforming agriculture: 

Several participants expressed strong interest in CIMMYT’s technologies and products. Among them was Gjizelle Nel of AGT Foods Africa, who highlighted her company’s ongoing collaboration with CIMMYT. 

 The congress emphasized that stronger collaboration, innovation, and knowledge sharing will be essential to overcoming these barriers. 

“We are currently working with CIMMYT products, particularly maize, and we are eager to continue expanding this relationship.” Nel stated. “We look forward to exploring sorghum, millet, and other emerging innovations. Visiting the booth was a great opportunity to see these advancements firsthand and engage with such knowledgeable scientists. CIMMYT’s work is making a significant difference in Africa, particularly as we strive to ensure access to nutritious food.”

Challenges and the Road Ahead 

Despite progress, challenges such as fragmented seed markets and regulatory barriers continue to limit investment and slow the adoption of improved seeds. Addressing these constraints will be critical to unlocking the full potential of Africa’s seed sector. 

Also Read: Escorts Kubota Limited Launches Three New Tractor Models Under Digitrac Series in India

Global Agriculture is an independent international media platform covering agri-business, policy, technology, and sustainability. For editorial collaborations, thought leadership, and strategic communications, write to pr@global-agriculture.com