The Sasakawa Africa Association (SAA) participated in the 26th African Seed Trade Association (AFSTA) Congress, held from 23–25 March 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa, under the theme: “Empowering Africa’s Future, One Seed at a Time.”

The congress brought together over 500 delegates from more than 40 countries, including seed companies, policymakers, researchers, and development partners, highlighting the growing importance of a coordinated seed sector across Africa. Discussions emphasized the critical role of quality seed systems in driving agricultural transformation, improving food security, and enhancing livelihoods—priorities that closely align with SAA’s mission.

SAA was represented by Ande Okiror, Market-Oriented Agriculture Coordinator, and Ethiopia Tadesse, Head of Communications and Advocacy, who engaged with key stakeholders across the seed value chain.

SAA also hosted a vibrant exhibition booth, showcasing its work in strengthening inclusive and resilient agricultural systems through improved seed and technology access, capacity building, and market-oriented, nutrition-sensitive agriculture. The SAA team held meaningful engagements with partners, exploring collaboration opportunities to enhance the availability and adoption of quality seeds across Africa.

SAA team engaging partners and visitors at the SAA exhibition booth during AFSTA Congress 2026.

During these engagements, SAA emphasized the importance of strengthening last-mile delivery systems to ensure improved seeds effectively reach smallholder farmers. The team also highlighted the need for a food systems approach, linking seed access with productivity, nutrition, and market outcomes to achieve sustainable impact.

Key discussions at the congress focused on seed policy harmonization, innovation in plant breeding, adoption of climate-resilient varieties, and strengthening seed certification systems. Participants noted that while regional harmonization frameworks have made progress, inconsistent national implementation continues to delay seed movement and limit farmers’ access to improved varieties, underscoring the need for coordinated advocacy. These discussions echoed broader calls across the congress for stronger alignment between policy, innovation, and farmer-level impact.

Following the congress, on 26 March 2026, the SAA team participated in a Forage Day event hosted by DLF  South Africa. The visit provided insights into the role of improved forage and integrated approaches in enhancing farming systems. In particular, the team explored Push–Pull technology and innovations in fodder, which contribute to more resilient crop–livestock systems.

SAA’s participation in AFSTA 2026 reinforced its commitment to strengthening seed systems and ensuring that innovations translate into tangible benefits for smallholder farmers. As emphasized throughout the congress, empowering Africa’s future starts with ensuring farmers have access to quality seeds and innovations that reach them effectively.

SAA exhibition booth at AFSTA Congress 2026 in Cape Town.