Mbeya farmers improve yields through better seeds

This has also increased their incomes, through selling sunflower, thanks to a capacity building and modern seeds distribution programme jointly implemented by Agricultural Markets Development Trust (AMDT) and Highland Seeds Growers LTD.

Highlands Seeds Growers Limited acting production manager, Elizabeth Mallya said the programme is also implemented by Ilonga Agriculture Research Institute based in Morogoro, which is involved with research and production of basic seeds.

"Due to this partnership, we started producing sunflower seeds and giving instructions to farmers," she explained. 

She noted that, through the partnership, a total of 21 tons of seeds have been produced through the AMDT project by engaging three farmers , of which they sell it the center of Agriculture Seed Agency (ASA).

Mallya explained that during this year, they signed a contract to produce 100 tons of sunflower seeds, of which 50 tons will be managed through AMDT project.

"We have entered into an agreement with three farmers; one in Mbarali and two in Songwe who are now on harvesting stages. They have cultivated 140 acres and expect to get 50 tons or more," she explained.

In addition, she 200 farmers learned the best sunflower cultivation and the best agricultural principles.

"We will use leaflets, calendars, advertisements in the media to reach farmers," she said

She said that the response of the farmers is good and most are interested on contract farming, because they are assured of markets.

She explained that the biggest challenge for farmers is low quality seeds.

The company’s seed production manager Iddi Omari said sunflower seed production has been improved.

He advised farmers to use the best seeds from a research institutes that meet international standards.

AMDT has invested more than 4bn/ to facilitate projects to develop the sunflower and others crops.