Research and Seed Policies Impacting Bean, Maize, and Cassava Seed Systems in Uganda.

Agriculture is the predominant industry in Uganda with 66% of the working population deriving livelihood directly from agricultural production.  Agriculture in Uganda is predominantly crop based with common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), maize (Zea mays L.), and cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz), as the major staple crops. These crops provide for daily food requirements, are sources of income for small-holder farmers, and support agro-processing industries.  This study evaluated the current seed industry research and seed policies and their effect on the evolution of bean, cassava and maize seed systems in Uganda.  It further examined current capacities in crop improvement, seed production, and marketing by the private sector, public certification, and quality assurance systems. Currently, there is a high level of engagement by both public and private sectors to generate improved crop varieties as well as provide improved germplasm to increase crop yields.  The level of integration into the existing seed systems, however, is dominated by informal systems of production and delivery.  This presents a major a challenge preventing smallholder farmers from accessing the improved germplasm. Transitioning from informal to more formal seed systems for these crops would entail increased public-private partnerships in research participation through financing of research activities as well as improved policy frameworks, especially those affecting small-holder producers. Formalizing the seed industry is challenged by inadequate supplies of breeders and foundation seed, limited seed conditioning capacity, limited seed business skills, and unethical practices have also affected seed industry growth. Overcoming these constraints requires macro-economic interventions such as greater investment in training and research, improved infrastructure, better mechanisms for policy implementation, formalized seed markets, and intensified extension services.  Together these interventions would enable both dynamism in the private sector and increased adoption of improved germplasm at all levels of bean, maize, and cassava production.