Strengthening local seed systems

This book presents research results, which were achieved by working in a participatory plant breeding project in Southern Mali coordinated by ICRISAT Mali. The object of the study is the seed and variety management of sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench], the staple crop in the two project regions Dioïla and Mandé. The strengths and weaknesses of the local seed systems are identified and recommendations are given for the development of the seed sector. Agro-ecological changes in recent decades, such as decreased rainfall and alteration of soil fertility, triggered farmers’ demand for new varieties better adapted to new conditions and complementing their existing variety portfolio. The participatory research approach allowed to analyse the actual situation from a farmer’s perspective and to gain insight into local knowledge concerning variety and seed management. The local seed systems proved to be effective, but new approaches for improvement need to be integrated. Cooperation with research institutions and actors of the seed sector should be strengthened. Increased seed diversity must provide farmers with greater flexibility to meet specific requirements.