STAPLEFORD, ZIMBABWE – With the 2025-2026 farming season underway, a powerful coalition of agricultural leaders and law enforcement has declared a full-scale operation against the surge of counterfeit seeds threatening the nation’s food security. At a critical press conference held on November 24, 2025, at Seed Co Limited’s headquarters, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), the Zimbabwe Seed Association (ZSA), and Seed Co jointly announced a nationwide crackdown on unscrupulous traders selling fake maize seed to unsuspecting farmers.
The event highlighted a unified front against a problem that officials say not only causes devastating financial losses for farmers but also jeopardizes the entire agricultural sector. Ministry of Agriculture representative Mr. Edmore Mtetwa was also present, signaling the government's commitment to eradicating the illicit trade.
A Unified Crackdown on a Malicious Practice
In a strongly worded press statement, the ZRP confirmed that a joint operation with Seed Co is in "full swing" to target the production and distribution of fake seed. The police will enforce the provisions of the Seed Act (Chapter 19:13) to ensure that individuals selling counterfeit maize seed are arrested and brought to justice.
"It has come to our attention that some unscrupulous informal traders and hardware stores are selling counterfeit seeds branded with reputable companies' logos at lower prices compared to original certified seed from authorised dealers," the ZRP statement reads. "This malicious practice not only causes financial losses to farmers but also jeopardizes food security and the agricultural sector in the country."
Seed Co, a major target of these syndicates, has been significantly affected by counterfeiters using packaging and logos that closely resemble the company's authentic branding to deceive customers.
The High Cost of Fake Seed
Dr. John Makoni, Chairman of the Zimbabwe Seed Association, delivered a stark warning to farmers about the true cost of cheap, counterfeit seeds. He emphasized that while the initial purchase may seem like a bargain, the consequences are severe and long-lasting.
"Farmers watch out for fake seed, usually purchased cheaply from unreliable sources," Dr. Makoni stated. "Though cheap, the cost of fake seed lasts a whole season. Fake seed would lead to loss of yield potential and markets, thus reducing income and threatening the viability of the farming business. It threatens national food and nutrition security, livelihoods, as well as retards agricultural transformation."
He explained that genuine seed from ZSA members is produced according to strict government regulations, ensuring it is clean, will germinate properly, and is free from pests and diseases. This quality control is absent in the illicit market.
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How to Identify and Avoid Fake Seed |
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Source |
DO NOT buy seed from the roadside or unverified sellers. Purchase ONLY from reputable, registered agro-dealers and authorized distributors. |
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Packaging |
Look for suspicious packaging, spelling errors on the package or label, and errors on the seed company logo. |
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Seed Appearance |
Be wary of the color shade of the dye on the seed, which can be inconsistent in fake products. |
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Reporting |
If you detect suspicious seed, report it immediately to the authorities. |
Public Urged to Report Suspects
The ZRP has urged the public to be vigilant and report any individuals or businesses suspected of packaging and selling counterfeit maize seed. The following contact numbers have been provided for reporting:
- Police General Headquarters National Complaints Desk: (0242) 703631
- Harare Operations: (0242) 748836
- Bulawayo Operations: (0292) 885479
- WhatsApp: 0712 800 197
Looking Ahead: Innovation and Farmer Engagement
In a related development showcasing its commitment to agricultural excellence, Seed Co Vegetables is hosting he Annual Horticulture Field Day. The event, scheduled for Friday, December 5, 2025, at the Seed Co Vegetables Trials Station in Stapleford, will provide farmers and media with firsthand insights into the company's latest innovations and cutting-edge vegetable seed varieties. This serves as a reminder of the importance of continuous research and development in ensuring farmers have access to high-performing, genuine seeds.
The message from all stakeholders was unanimous and clear: the fight against fake seed is a collective responsibility, and the only way to guarantee a successful harvest is to start with the right, certified seed.
