The shortage of certified Irish potato seeds in Rwanda stems from several factors, including limited storage facilities, poor seed quality, and climate change impacts. This has led to reduced yields and incomes for farmers.
The government aims to increase the availability of high-quality, disease-free Irish potato seeds to boost farmers’ incomes and food security. To this end, 11 new Irish potato varieties have been developed, which require seed multipliers to produce certified seeds.
"Irish potatoes are costly, so we need to support youth in addressing the shortage," said Bagabe.
Teddy Mutoni, an inspector at the Rwanda Inspectorate, Competition and Consumer Protection Authority (RICA), highlighted ongoing collaboration with Kilimo Trust Rwanda, a not-for-profit organization promoting agricultural development in East Africa.
Read full story here: https://www.newtimes.co.rw/article/23589/news/agriculture/govt-steps-up-fight-against-certified-seed-shortages