Who Can Share Seeds? The Impact of Climate Change and Counterfeit Seeds on Kenyan Farmers

KIKUYU, Kenya — Hidden among the lush greenery of Kikuyu town in central Kenya lies the National Seed Bank. Established in 1988, this facility is vital for the future of the country's agriculture.

Inside its chilly rooms, over 50,000 seed varieties are carefully stored and cataloged. The seed bank's main purpose is to preserve genetic diversity in crops, which is becoming increasingly important due to the threats posed by climate change. As farmers face unpredictable weather, maintaining a variety of seeds can significantly impact food security.

The Importance of Traditional Seeds

According to Desterio Nyamongo, director of the Genetic Resources Research Institute overseeing the bank, traditional seed varieties often show better resilience in challenging climatic conditions than certain improved or hybrid varieties. Many of the indigenous seeds are naturally more resistant to diseases and pests, which can be crucial for farmers relying on rain-fed agriculture.

Kenya's reliance on rainfall makes it highly vulnerable to climate-related shocks such as drought, and agricultural production contributes significantly to the country's GDP. Yet, a recent report by the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization revealed that over a billion Africans struggle to afford nutritious diets, highlighting a growing food security crisis across the continent.

The Challenge of Counterfeit Seeds

In addition to climate challenges, Kenyan farmers are now dealing with counterfeit seeds that have flooded the market in recent months. Many farmers have reported losses of millions of shillings after using these fake seeds bought from private sellers, leading to low yields and reduced income.

Kenyan officials recognize the critical need for a reliable seed supply. At a recent seed quality conference, agriculture officials acknowledged that Africa has limited capacity for producing high-quality certified seeds, which must meet rigorous quality standards for agricultural success.

Legal Restrictions on Seed Sharing

Compounding the issue is a 2012 law that prohibits seed sharing among farmers. This practice, once common, allowed farmers to save money by exchanging seeds each planting season. The government claims the law protects farmers from uncertified seeds, yet many farmers argue it imposes unnecessary costs.

A group of farmers, including Francis Ngiri, has challenged this law in court, arguing that requiring them to purchase new seeds every season is financially burdensome. Ngiri operates an indigenous seed bank in a semi-arid area and has created a space for local farmers to learn about resilient seed varieties.

Community-Based Solutions

Ngiri's work has demonstrated the potential of indigenous seeds in promoting food security. He teaches farmers to conserve seeds through traditional methods, such as using wood ash to repel pests or storing seeds in earthen pots. This approach promotes sustainability and efficiency, particularly in resource-limited environments.

Alongside Ngiri, farmer Maximilla Onyura advocates for the benefits of indigenous crops as a sustainable food solution. While she isn't directly involved in the legal case, she collaborates with Ngiri through the Seed Savers Network.

Conclusion and Future Perspectives

Authorities at the National Seed Bank occasionally distribute indigenous seeds at no cost, encouraging farmers in marginal areas to adopt varieties that are likely to thrive under local conditions. Nyamongo believes that using traditional seeds can offer better outcomes for many farmers, especially those facing financial constraints from purchasing chemical fertilizers and hybrid seeds.

Nyamongo refrained from commenting on the ongoing court case, but he echoed sentiments shared by activists regarding the suitability of indigenous seeds. They argue that indigenous crops have adapted to their local environments over time, offering resilience against prevailing climatic conditions.

Experts emphasize that governments should invest in community-based seed programs to preserve diverse indigenous varieties, which can better prepare farmers against challenges posed by climate change. This initiative could provide a pathway to enhance food security across Kenya and the broader region, while allowing farmers to reconnect with sustainable practices.

seeds, agriculture, climate, Kenya, resilience