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COMESA has launched the Seed Information System (COMSIS) and operationalised the Seed Labelling and Certification System aimed at strengthening agricultural development and improving access to quality seed for farmers.
Dr. John Mukuka, the Acting Director of the COMESA Industry and Agriculture Department said harmonized policies alone were not enough to unlock the potential of regional seed trade, emphasizing that modern systems were needed to support transparency, efficiency and informed decision-making across member states.
Mukuka said this during the launch of the system and operationalisation of the Seed Labelling and Certification System in Lusaka organised by COMESA agency, the Alliance for Commodity Trade in Eastern and Southern Africa (ACTSA).
“COMSIS is more than a digital platform. It is a regional public good that will enable Member States to share reliable seed information, improve regulatory coordination, provide greater visibility of registered seed varieties, strengthen seed certification processes, and support evidence-based policy decisions,” Mukuka said.
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Ministry of Agriculture Permanent Secretary for Technical Services John Mulongoti noted that many farmers in the region still struggled to access certified and high-quality seed due to fragmented markets, conflicting national seed regulations, and limited access to reliable information.
“As member states, we believe that these efforts are critical in steering us towards the common goals of accessible quality seed to our farmers, improved agricultural productivity, and food security in all member countries of COMESA,” he said.
He added that the launch of COMSIS was more than the unveiling of a digital platform but a practical step towards creating a more integrated, transparent and efficient regional seed sector that will support governments, businesses and farmers.
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