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The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research – Savanna Agricultural Research Institute (CSIR-SARI) has conducted capacity-building sessions in groundnut seed production for 60 women producers, aiming to elevate crop quality standards.
Chosen from two Village Savings and Loans Association (VSLA) groups in the Mion District of the Northern Region, the women underwent training to bolster the supply of superior seeds in the district. This initiative forms part of the Africa Dryland Crops Project facilitated by CIMMYT-International Maize and Wheat Improvement Centre.
Participants were educated on a range of practices, including variety and site selection, best agronomic techniques, seed certification standards, as well as harvesting and drying methods. Additionally, the training encompassed aflatoxin management, seed storage, and marketing strategies.
Mr. Tou Moses Sampanbire, the Agriculture Extension Officer for Mion District, underscored the significant advantages of investing in groundnut production, highlighting its potential as a lucrative revenue stream.
Speaking on behalf of the participants, Mr. Elijah Tanyan, Secretary of the VSLA groups, emphasized the training’s value in enhancing knowledge of groundnut seed production for improved yields. He expressed optimism that the acquired skills would contribute to greater accessibility of high-quality seeds within the district.
The VLSA groups are now poised to utilize their collective savings to procure and distribute foundation seeds to members during the upcoming production season. Additionally, they have been connected with seed companies, potentially serving as out-growers in future collaborations.
