By Rawlings Kofi | Agribusiness Media
Rattray Arnold Research Station, Zimbabwe – 6 March 2025 – Seed Co, one of Africa’s leading seed companies, marked its 85th anniversary with a grand Field Day event at the Rattray Arnold Research Station (RARS) on 6 March 2025. The event, attended by government officials, farmers, and industry stakeholders, showcased the company’s latest innovations in seed technology and celebrated its enduring contribution to agricultural development in Zimbabwe and across the African continent.
The Field Day was graced by the Honourable Minister of Agriculture, Dr. A.J. Masuka, whose speech was delivered by Group Captain Taveshure, Chief Director in the Minister’s Office. In his address, the Minister highlighted the critical role of Seed Co in advancing Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector, particularly in the context of climate change and the government’s Agriculture, Food Systems and Rural Transformation Strategy (AFSRTS).
Government’s Vision for Agricultural Transformation
The Minister emphasized the importance of climate-proofing agriculture and building resilient communities, as outlined in the AFSRTS launched by President E.D. Mnangagwa in August 2020. The strategy aims to ensure food security, nutrition security, improved livelihoods, and economic development, while also contributing to peace and stability through the affirmation of boundaries.
“Climate change is real,” the Minister stated, commending Seed Co for its focus on climate-smart genetics. He urged the company to continue developing high-yielding, short-season varieties that are adapted to the increasingly erratic weather patterns experienced in recent years. The Minister also called for the development of crops with better water and nutrient use efficiency, as well as improved attributes for traditional grains, such as bird tolerance and processing qualities.
The Minister also addressed the threat of Fall Armyworm, announcing that the government, in consultation with stakeholders, would introduce a seed dressing chemical for all maize and sorghum seeds starting in the 2025/2026 season. He thanked seed companies for their cooperation in implementing measures to protect crops from this devastating pest.
Seed Co’s Legacy of Innovation
In his keynote address, Seed Co Group CEO Mr. Morgan Nzwere reflected on the company’s 85-year journey, tracing its origins back to the Rhodesia Seed Maize Association (RSMA) in 1940. Over the decades, Seed Co has evolved into a regional powerhouse, operating in 23 African countries and contributing significantly to the continent’s agricultural productivity.
Mr Nzwere highlighted the company’s pioneering achievements in seed breeding, including the development of the first single-cross hybrid maize, SR52, in 1952. This breakthrough set the stage for Seed Co’s ongoing commitment to breeding high-quality, resilient seed varieties tailored to the needs of both smallholder and large-scale farmers.
To date, Seed Co has released 226 varieties across multiple crops, including maize, soybeans, wheat, sorghum, and sunflower. The company’s maize breeding program, in particular, has achieved several milestones, including the development of ultra-early maturity hybrids and varieties with durable resistance to diseases such as maize streak virus (MSV) and grey leaf spot (GLS).
Climate-Smart Agriculture and Future Commitments
In response to the growing challenges posed by climate change, Seed Co has diversified its product portfolio to include more resilient crops such as sorghum, sunflower, millets, and legumes. The company has also developed a range of maize varieties with different maturity groups to cater to varying planting dates and season lengths.
Mr Nzwere emphasized Seed Co’s commitment to innovation, food security, and sustainable agricultural practices. “We renew our promise to farmers, to Africa, and to our partners and employees,” he said. “We will never stop innovating so that farmers can grow more and earn more. We remain committed to Africa’s food security and prosperity, and we will continue to build an institution that inspires future generations.”
A Collaborative Future
The Field Day also served as a platform for fostering collaboration between Seed Co, government agencies, and farmers. The company’s partnership with Limagrain, one of the world’s largest seed companies, was highlighted as a key factor in accelerating the development and release of new seed varieties. This collaboration has enabled Seed Co to access cutting-edge technologies and breeding platforms, further enhancing its ability to meet the evolving needs of farmers.
Attendees were invited to explore the latest innovations on display and engage with Seed Co’s experts. The company’s 85th anniversary was celebrated as a testament to its enduring legacy and its unwavering commitment to agricultural excellence.
Seed Co’s 85th anniversary Field Day at the Rattray Arnold Research Station was a celebration of innovation, resilience, and collaboration. As the company looks to the future, its focus on climate-smart agriculture, sustainable practices, and farmer empowerment will continue to drive agricultural transformation in Zimbabwe and across Africa. With the support of the government and its partners, Seed Co is poised to play a pivotal role in achieving Vision 2030 and ensuring food security for generations to come.
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