In Senegal—just like in many countries across Africa—access to high-quality, certified seeds remains a cornerstone of agricultural productivity, climate resilience, and food security.
Through the Vision for Adapted Crops and Soils (VACS) initiative, Seed Systems Group (SSG) is working with national partners to increase awareness and adoption of newly released, improved seed varieties developed by leading agricultural research institutions.
What Is VACS?
VACS is a three-year initiative funded by USAID Feed the Future, focused on promoting the production and adoption of seeds of improved varieties of amaranth, Cowpea, Finger millet, Mung bean, Pearl millet, and Pigeon pea. The project aims to build sustainable regional seed systems that help farmers overcome challenges posed by climate change and evolving markets. Seed Systems Group (SSG) is collaborating with CIMMYT in implementing VACS activities in Senegal, Ghana, and Kenya. In Senegal, the initiative is promoting high-yielding climate resilient Cowpea and Pearl millet varieties.
A Collaborative Approach
A recent workshop held in Senegal brought together VACS grantees and seed sector partners to reflect on the achievements of the 2023–2024 campaign and set strategic goals for 2025. The core implementing partners include:
- ISRA/CNRA – Senegal’s national agricultural research institute, responsible for pre-basic seed production
- Fatou SARR and SEDAB – Local seed companies multiplying certified seed
- RESOPP – A dynamic farmers’ organization coordinating outreach and seed distribution
Key Results from the 2023–2024 Season
- 455 kg of pre-basic millet seed and 75 kg of cowpea seed produced by ISRA, with over 90% germination rates
- Over 20 metric tonnes of certified seed made available to farmers
- 12,000 farmers reached, with 64% being women
- 50 demonstration plots installed, and 180 Village-Based Advisors (VBAs) trained
Looking Ahead to 2025 With Even Enhanced Strategic Goals
For the 2025 agricultural season, the VACS partners have set even more impactful goals:
- 530 kg of pre-basic seed will be produced by ISRA
- Fatou SARR and SEDAB will produce at least 20 tonnes of certified seed
- 35,000 small seed packs will be distributed to farmers by RESOPP between June and July
- A multi-actor monitoring committee will be trained and will meet monthly (July–December) to track progress
- Zoom or in-person meetings will be held monthly to evaluate activities, with progress reports issued after each session
Toward a Sustainable and Inclusive Seed System
The collective energy of these stakeholders is paving the way for a sustainable and inclusive seed system. With shared commitment across the seed value chain—from research to last-mile distribution—Senegal is taking firm steps toward transforming its agricultural systems, ensuring farmers can access high-yielding and climate resilient seeds, and reap the benefits.
