Farmers urged to avoid uncertified seeds amid climate change concerns
Seed Co supplies maize, legume, and vegetable seeds, aiming to boost household yields and profitability for farmers using their products.
MZIMBA, Malawi — Agricultural authorities in Mzimba are warning farmers against purchasing uncertified seeds from untrustworthy traders, emphasizing the importance of maximizing crop production in the face of climate change, writes James Nyirenda.
Chancy Mithi, Champhira Extension Planning Area Officer, spoke Thursday at the opening of a Seed Co shop in Jenda trading centre.
"This shop has opened at the right time as farmers prepare for this year's growing season," Mithi said.
"It will reduce the risk farmers were taking by buying uncertified seeds from vendors."
Mithi advised farmers to prepare for the growing season by purchasing certified seeds from recognized companies like Seed Co and applying manure to their land.
Adrian Mtambo, Seed Co's Northern region sales manager, expressed satisfaction with farmers' responses to the company's seeds.
He said the new shop in Jenda, adding to locations in Mzuzu and Karonga, aims to improve accessibility for farmers.
"Farming is an investment. If a farmer buys fake seeds, all their intentions will not be met," Mtambo said.
He added that Seed Co offers various seed types suited for different climates to combat climate change.
Trywell Phiri, a farmer from Zambia residing near Jenda, welcomed the shop's opening.
"My fellow farmers, let's avoid buying uncertified seeds from vendors," Phiri said, recounting his own experience with duplicated seeds that impacted his production.
Seed Co supplies maize, legume, and vegetable seeds, aiming to boost household yields and profitability for farmers using their products.