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Abstract
The timely availability of improved seeds at affordable prices is critical to improving food security, resilience, and livelihoods for smallholder farmers in Liberia. Seed of improved varieties can deliver state-of-the-art technology to farmers including higher yields, disease and pest resistance, climate change adaptation, and improved nutrition. This report summarizes the key findings of the study conducted by The African Seed Access Index (TASAI) to appraise the structure and economic performance of Liberia’s formal seed sector. With a focus on the four grain and legume crops important to national food and nutritional security (rice, maize, groundnut, and cowpea) the report covers 22 key performance indicators divided into five categories: Research and Development, Industry Competitiveness, Seed Policy and Regulations, Institutional Support, and Service to Smallholder Farmers. Liberia’s recent adoption of the Liberia Seed Development Certification Agency (SDCA) Act and the Liberia Seed (Development and Certification) Regulations are a step in the right direction in providing the necessary legislative and regulatory framework to guide the development of the seed sector in the country. However, failure to operationalize the SDCA and its technical committees are hampering the implementation of the seed instruments. A functional regulatory environment will encourage investments in seed production and marketing in Liberia. Although the private sector is becoming more active in the production and distribution of certified seeds, most farmers depend on non-governmental organizations and government seed support programs for their seed. There is an urgent need to develop the market for certified seed by promoting the benefits of using improved seed, strengthening rural agro-dealer networks and agriculture extension services, and facilitating direct linkages between seed producers and farmers. In addition to these highlights, the report discusses many positive developments as well as areas for improvement in Liberia’s formal seed sector.