Building Burundi’s capacity for hybrid maize seed production
Access to quality seed is one of the most important foundations of a productive maize sector.
- Seed Systems
- Agricultural Innovation
Access to quality seed is one of the most important foundations of a productive maize sector. In Burundi, maize is a priority value chain under the Burundi Rwanda Integrated Development Programme (BRIDEP), which aims to strengthen agricultural production, cross-border trade, and regional integration. Through its Maize Improvement Program, IITA–CGIAR is supporting Burundi in building the technical capacity needed to produce and certify hybrid maize seed locally.
Improving access to high-quality seed remains a major challenge for maize production in Burundi. Demand for certified hybrid seed has risen sharply in recent years, with pre-orders frequently exceeding available supply. In some cases, demand has increased from hundreds of kilograms to several tons, highlighting the need for stronger local seed production systems capable of maintaining genetic purity, managing seed multiplication, and ensuring timely distribution to farmers.