Ethio-Seed: A Hub to Democratize Seed Systems in Ethiopia

As part of the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, a partnership between the Ethiopian Government, CGIAR centers and national and international universities bore fruit, leading to the creation of a digital platform to address the challenges faced by Ethiopia’s seed system. The Ethio-Seed Hub Platform aims to improve the exchange of seed-related information, connecting seed producers with seed consumers in Ethiopia. With timely and accurate data on seed production and demand, the platform provides opportunities for informed decision-making for both private and public stakeholders.

Its implementation is managed by the Alliance of Bioversity and CIAT, with software developed by experts from Addis Ababa University. The system was designed following an extensive seed mapping study conducted by the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), the International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA), Wageningen University and Research (WUR), and the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR). The software was developed using an agile approach, engaging key users from regulatory bodies, seed companies, national and regional research systems, and farmer unions.

The platform provides comprehensive information on each seed variety, including release reasons, nutritional benefits, drought resistance, and suitable agro-ecological zones, empowering farmers to make informed decisions. Users can track seed processing locations and identify available farmland, thus enhancing transparency and accountability in the seed production and distribution process. The platform also features a database that displays seed availability by crop type, variety, class and stage, offering near real-time information on seed status, including producers, importers, processing centers, distribution channels, and responsible parties.

Additionally, it facilitates near real-time seed demand collection for regions, zones and ‘woredas’, allowing for accurate demand aggregation and supply analysis. The platform seamlessly integrates with other systems, such as the Farm Management Information System at EIAR, ensuring smooth interoperability. The rich data captured will support advisory services and leverage AI and data science to predict seed yields and forecast demand by integrating climate and soil data, thereby helping certified seed producers anticipate needs and plan effectively, reducing the risks associated with climate variability and enhancing agro-advisory services.

To learn more: Smarter Fertilizer: AI-Powered Recommendations Boost Wheat Yields in Ethiopia