Across the COMESA region, only 1 in 5 small-scale farmers currently has access to quality, improved seed. The result? Lower agricultural productivity constrained regional trade, and millions of people continuing to face food insecurity.
ACTESA, under COMESA, is taking a transformative step forward with the unveiling of the COMESA Seed Information System (COMSIS) and the operationalization of the COMESA Seed Labelling and Certification System. These regional initiatives will:
✅ Improve farmers' access to certified, high-quality seed.
✅️Digitize and strengthen seed information management across Member States.
✅ Facilitate harmonization of seed certification and labelling to facilitate seamless regional trade.
✅Increase transparency, traceability, and trust throughout the seed value chain.
✅Attract greater private-sector investment while strengthening food systems and regional resilience.
All this was reviewed at the regional meeting held in Lusaka, Zambia on 5th and 6th August 2026, aimed at presenting COMISIS and building consensus with the seed industry and stakeholders in the 21 COMESA Member States.
By connecting Member States through a shared digital platform and harmonized standards, COMESA is laying the foundation for a more integrated, competitive, and food-secure region where quality seed reaches farmers faster and agricultural markets thrive. Special appreciate to our all-weather partner ATTF for its support.
