AFSTA, ISTA forge partnership to enhance seed quality in Africa
The MoU outlines key areas of collaboration, including promoting seed trade, adopting standardized seed analysis methodologies, and establishing a framework for future joint initiatives
RWANDA – The African Seed Trade Association (AFSTA) and the International Seed Testing Association (ISTA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing seed research, training, and testing across the continent.
The agreement was formalized during the AFSTA Congress 2025, held from March 3 to 5 in Kigali, Rwanda.
The MoU outlines key areas of collaboration, including promoting seed trade, adopting standardized seed analysis methodologies, and establishing a framework for future joint initiatives.
Notably, the agreement does not entail any financial commitments; funding for specific projects will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
The AFSTA Congress 2025, marking the association’s 25th anniversary, convened over 300 delegates from 48 countries under the theme “25 Years Strong: Innovating Quality Seed for Africa’s Sustainable Agriculture.”
The event attracted seed professionals, plant breeders, researchers, policymakers, government officials, and students, all converging to discuss advancements and challenges in the seed sector.
AFSTA, established in 2000, is a not-for-profit membership association dedicated to advocating for the interests of private seed companies and advancing the seed industry in Africa.
Registered in Kenya as an international organization, AFSTA comprises approximately 120 members, including 118 seed companies, 27 African national seed trade associations, and over 44 associate members worldwide.
ISTA, founded in 1924, develops standard seed testing methods and facilitates the trade of quality seeds globally. Its membership includes laboratories, sampling entities, personal members, and associate members from 83 countries.
ISTA produces internationally agreed-upon rules for seed sampling and testing, accredits laboratories, promotes research, provides international seed analysis certificates and training, and disseminates knowledge in seed science and technology.
The collaboration between AFSTA and ISTA is expected to address critical challenges in Africa’s seed sector, such as the need for quality assurance, capacity building, and harmonization of testing procedures.
By aligning their efforts, both organizations aim to enhance the availability of high-quality seeds, thereby contributing to sustainable agricultural practices and food security across the continent.
As the agreement takes effect, stakeholders anticipate the rollout of joint programs focused on training, research, and the implementation of standardized testing methodologies. These initiatives are expected to empower local seed companies, enhance regulatory frameworks, and ultimately benefit farmers by providing access to superior seed varieties.
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