feed the future mozambique improved seeds for better
TRANSCRIPT
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31 January 2019 Revised
Prepared By: International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) MOZAMBIQUE www.iita.org
This report is made possible by the support from the Feed the Future, the US Government Global Hunger and Food Security Initiative through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The contents are the responsibility of IITA and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government.
Feed the Future Mozambique Improved Seeds for Better Agriculture (SEMEAR) Agreement No: AID-BFS-IO-17-00005 FY2019 4th Year of Project Implementation 1st Quarter Report: October 2018 - December 2018
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1st Quarter Report for FY19: October 2018 – December 2018
i. Project information
Project Duration: 5 years Starting Date: October 2015
Life of project funding: Total project budget: US$13 M
Geographic Focus: Nampula province (Angoche, Malema, Meconta, Monapo, Ribaué, Rapale,
Murrupula, and Mogovolas districts), Zambézia province (Gurué, Alto Molocué and Mocuba
districts), Manica province (Barué, Macate, Manica, and Sussundenga districts) and Tete province
(Angónia, Tsangano, and Macanga districts).
Project Objectives:
1. Increase the production and supply of breeder, pre-basic, basic, and certified seeds of common
bean, cowpea, groundnut, pigeon pea, sesame, and soybean in the major FtF ZOI and strengthen
the national seed systems
2. Scale-up and enhance the adoption of improved varieties and best management practices in the
FtF ZOI using participatory approaches
3. Enhance national policy dialogue on seed and fertilizer supply
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Contents i. Project information ........................................................................................................................... 2
Contents ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 3
iv. Contributors and Acknowledgements .................................................................................................. 5
v. Executive Summary .............................................................................................................................. 6
1. Project Background ........................................................................................................................... 7
2. Project Performance during the first quarter (October–December 2018) ......................................... 8
2.1.1 Progress on breeders/pre-basic and basic seed production ................................................................................ 8
2.1.2. Progress on certified seed production ................................................................................................................... 11
2.1.3. Seed Distribution and Sales ..................................................................................................................................... 14
2.1.4. Seed Enterprise Development ................................................................................................................................. 15
2.2.1. On-farm demonstrations ............................................................................................................................................ 16
2.2.2. Training and scaling up adoption ........................................................................................................................... 18
2.2.3. Field days, exchange visits, and meetings ........................................................................................................... 19
2.2.4. Gender Issues in SEMEAR Implementation .................................................................................................... 21
2.2.5. Environmental Monitoring and Mitigation Plan (EMMP) Compliance .................................................... 22
3. Communications and farmers’ outreach ............................................................................................. 23
2. Project Performance Indicators ....................................................................................................... 23
5. Major Implementation Issues .............................................................................................................. 26
6. Collaboration with other donor projects ............................................................................................. 27
7. Key Activities Planned for Next Quarter ............................................................................................ 28
8. Evaluation / Assessment Update ......................................................................................................... 28
9. Administrative Update ........................................................................................................................ 28
10. Financial Information ........................................................................................................................ 29
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iii. Acronyms and Abbreviations
APROSE Associação pra a Promoção do Sector de Sementes
CBSG Community-Based Seed Grower
CGIAR Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research
COPAZA Cooperativa de Produtores da Alta-Zambézia
CIAT Centro Internacional de Agricultura Tropical
CBO Community-based Organization
CZNdt Centro Zonal Nordeste
CZNrt Centro Zonal Noroeste
CZC Centro Zonal Centro
DINAS Direcção Nacional de Agricultura e Siviculta
DPA Direcção Provincial de Agricultura e Segurança Alimentar
FAs Farmers’ Associations
FAO Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
FtF ZOI Feed-the-Future Zone of Influence
FtF – InovA Feed the Future Innovations for Agriculture Activity
FtF STP Feed the Future Seed Trade project
ICRISAT International Centre for Research in the Semi-Arid Tropics
IIAM Instituto de Investigação Agrária de Moçambique
IITA International Institute of Tropical Agriculture
InovAgro Innovation in Agribusiness (Swiss-funded project)
OYE Opportunities for Young Entrepreneurs
PAN Posto Agronómico de Nampula
SBS Sociedade de Beneficiamento de Sementes
QDS Quality Declared Seeds
SDAE Serviço Distrital de Actividades Económicas
SNV Dutch Development Organization
RAMA – BC Resilient Agriculture and Marketing Activity – Beira Corridor
RAMA – NC Resilient Agriculture and Marketing Activity – Nacala Corridor
TNS TechnoServe Inc.
USAID United States Agency for International Development
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iv. Contributors and Acknowledgements
Contributors
Malita CJ, Boahen SK, Wiredu AN, Savala CEN, Couvinhas AF, Belarmino D, Gaudêncio S,
Maereka E, Chantiro S, and Madzonga O, on behalf of project implementing partners.
Acknowledgements
Continued commitment and hard work require acknowledgement: we are very grateful to all the
technical staff of implementing partners, our Activity Manager, Paula Pimentel, other donor-
funded projects collaborating with SEMEAR, and our farmers who are the direct beneficiaries of
the project and provide testimonies of the impacts on their lives.
We will continue pursuing these activities with the belief that they will lead to significant
changes in the agricultural sector in Mozambique.
Thank you very much!
Carlos Malita
Nampula, January 2019
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v. Executive Summary
The main activities conducted during the First Quarter of FY19 were seed distribution to
partners, land preparation for early generation seed production, identification of farmers and
farmers’ associations to host demonstration plots, training of farmers and awareness creation
activities. By the end of the first quarter, SEMEAR consortium partners planted 6.2 ha
breeder/pre-basic and 83.8 ha basic seed fields across four of the crops being promoted: common
bean, groundnut, pigeon pea and soybean. Planting of cowpea and sesame will begin in the
second quarter around mid-January 2019. SEMEAR supported partners to produce certified seed
by supplying seeds and providing technical advice. During period under review, 27 t of basic
seed was sold to seed companies, agro-dealers, farmers associations and community-based seed
producers to produce certified seed. This quantity of seed is expected to plant 690 ha. In
collaboration with partners, the project established 311 variety and input demonstration plots
across the FtF ZOI by the end of the first quarter as part of awareness creation activities. The
demonstration plots are used to train farmers, for field days and also to showcase the potential of
the technologies. Soybean is the first crop to be planted among the crop SEMEAR is promoting;
hence an estimated 635 ha certified seed area was planted by partners during the first quarter.
About 80% of the soybean demonstration plots were established during the first quarter but
majority of the demo plots for the other crops will be established in the second quarter. For the
soybean demonstration plots already established, 31% of the host farmers are females but we
expect female participation to be higher for the food legumes like common bean and cowpea.
SEMEAR made concerted efforts to increase female participation in project activities through
targeted training, demonstration and contribution of limited quantities of improved seeds and
other inputs to female hosted demonstration plots. Several training sessions were conducted on
all aspects of crop production and seed business including variety selection, crop management,
disease and pest control, storage and marketing. During the first quarter, 246 stakeholders (45%
females) attended the training. FY19 first quarter M&E data were collected from partners and
beneficiaries to assess project performance and impacts.
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1. Project Background
Major factors including lack of access to good quality seeds of improved and high-yielding
varieties, low inputs use, poor crop management practices and climate change are the key
constraints to productivity of smallholder farmers in Mozambique. Most often some of the inputs
may be available in the cities but not easy to find in the farming communities. Many farmers cannot
afford when available, and for some inputs prices may be too high that the yield advantage for using the
input usually may not make economic sense. SEMEAR is one of the many interventions of USAID Feed
the Future Initiative that is addressing some of the challenges of smallholder farmers by providing
increased access to seeds of high-yielding varieties, inputs, and other improved production technologies.
The approach is through partnerships to accelerate adoption in the FtF ZOI in Manica, Nampula, Tete,
and Zambézia provinces. SEMEAR contributes to USAID Mozambique Country Development
Cooperation Strategy (CDCS) goal of leveraging emerging opportunities to achieve inclusive socio-
economic development. This goal feeds into the global FtF goal: “Sustainably reduce global hunger,
malnutrition and poverty”. SEMEAR contributes directly to the CDCS Intermediate Results under
“Increased agricultural sector growth and food security in focus provinces with emphasis on women”.
SEMEAR activities focus on three main objectives: 1) increase the production and supply of breeder, pre-
basic, basic, and certified seeds of common bean, cowpea, groundnut, pigeon pea, sesame, and soybean in
the major FtF ZOI and strengthen the national seed systems; 2) scale-up and enhance the adoption of
improved varieties and best management practices in the FtF ZOI using participatory approaches; and 3)
enhance national policy dialogue on seeds and fertilizer supply.
SEMEAR is implemented by four consortium partners: IITA, Instituto de Investigação Agrária de
Moçambique (IIAM), The International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT), and The
International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT). The project focuses
on the six crops that are important for the livelihoods of smallholder farmers in terms of food security and
income generation. IITA leads the consortium and each partner focuses on crops in which it has
experience and a comparative advantage. IITA handles cowpea, sesame, and soybean; CIAT focuses on
common bean; ICRISAT works on groundnut and pigeon pea; and IIAM works on all six crops in
specific agro-ecologies with high production potential. SEMEAR aims to increase accessibility for
improved seeds from a business perspective, create awareness of and promote improved varieties,
strengthen the capacity of farmers and stakeholders in improved crop production practices and seed
business management, and provide policy advocacy to enable the seed and input sectors to grow.
Partnership is key to achieving the project objectives; hence SEMEAR has established strong partnerships
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with relevant organizations including private sector seed and input companies and other for-profit
companies, public institutions such as the Extension Services and National Directorates of the Ministry
of Agriculture and Food Security, technology transfer centers and higher educational institutions, non-
governmental organizations (NGOs), farmers’ associations, community-based organizations, and other
donor-funded projects to effectively reach more beneficiary households. The consortium partners are
responsible for the production and supply of adequate quantities of breeder, pre-basic, and basic seeds to
facilitate the production of certified or QDS by seed companies, community-based seed producers, and
other seed growers. SEMEAR places emphasis on motivating and encouraging both male and female
farmers to buy certified seeds and inputs, identifying and training farmers who have the necessary
resources and skills to engage in profitable seed production enterprises, facilitating seed field inspection
and certification and linking seed producers to seed buyers, among many others. SEMEAR is in the
fourth year of implementation and this report provides progress on project activities during the first
quarter of FY2019 from October to December 2018.
2. Project Performance during the first quarter (October–December 2018)
The first quarter activities focused on land preparation for planting, selection and training of farmers to
host demonstration plots and participate in certified seed production, and basic seed distribution.
Other activities include field visits, participating in agricultural fairs, setting up common bean
demonstration plots with partners and supporting partners producing certified common bean seed under
irrigation. Typically, priority is given to early planted crops like soybean and groundnut during
the first quarter of the project year. Cowpea and sesame are late planted crops, so planting will begin
during the second quarter. The initial rainfall at the beginning of the planting season was generally good
across project locations in terms of timing and frequency. The details of activities implemented during the
first quarter of FY19 are outlined by objective in the sections below.
Objective 1: Increase the production and supply of breeder, pre-basic, basic, and
certified seeds in the major FtF ZOI and strengthen the national seed systems
2.1.1 Progress on breeders/pre-basic and basic seed production
Land preparation for early generation seed (EGS) production for all six crops began in October 2018 and
planting of soybean which the first to be planted began in the first week of December 2018 at the onset of
the rains. The rainfall so far has been generally good across the project locations
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Common bean
Forty-two hectares of land was ploughed and harrowed for breeders’, pre-basic and basic seed production
in Angónia district, Tete province during the first quarter of FY19. The bean growing season starts earlier
in Tete than the other provinces, therefore, land preparations in the other provinces will begin in second
quarter. Meanwhile, out of the 42 ha prepared in Tete province, 13 ha have been planted for basic seed
production (Table 1). Two varieties: NUA 45 (9 ha) and CAL 143 (4 ha) have been planted at Madeia
village. More breeders’, pre-basic and basic seed will be planted in the second quarter in Manica, Tete
and Zambezia provinces.
Table 1: SEMEAR FY19 early generation seed targets and area planted by end of the first
quarter (Oct-December 2018)
Crop Breeder/pre-basic (ha) Basic (ha)
Target Planted Target Planted
Soybean 0.60 3 17.5 36
Common bean 13.5 TBP 85.0 13
Groundnut 5.10 3 46.3 27
Pigeon pea 0.05 0.2 4.3 7.5
Cowpea 0.30 TBP 10.0 TBP
Sesame 0.012 TBP 2.0 TBP
Total 19.56 6.2 165.1 83.8
*TBP = To be planted between Mid-January and February
Cowpea and Sesame
The main activities for cowpea and sesame during the first quarter focused on selection and training of
farmers to host demonstration plots and participate in certified seed multiplication. The optimum planting
period for cowpea and sesame is from mid-January to late February. Thus, cowpea and sesame will be
planted in the second quarter, though about 15 ha of land have been prepared. The cowpea varieties being
promoted are IT-16, IT-18, IT-390-2, IT-1069, and IT-1263. Sesame varieties to be planted on the other
hand are Linde and Rama in Nampula province; and Linde and Nicaragua in Manica province. Similar to
previous seasons, activities on these two crops will be concentrated in Manica and Nampula provinces
with limited activities in Zambezia province.
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Groundnut and pigeon pea
Land preparation was done during the first quarter of FY19 at various IIAM Research Stations for
planting groundnut and pigeon pea. In December 2018, 3 ha and 27.0 ha of groundnut breeder and basic
seed, respectively were planted across target research stations and surrounding areas (Table 1).
Furthermore, 0.2 ha and 7.5 ha of pigeon pea breeder and basic seed, respectively were planted. The
groundnut breeder seed planted consists of two varieties (Mamane, 2 ha and Nametil, 1.0 ha) while
variety CG7 was planted for basic seed. The pigeon pea breeder seed consists of 0.2 ha ICEAP 00557
while the 3.0 ha pigeon pea basic seed includes 2 ha ICEAP 00557 and 1 ha ICEAP 00554.
Soybean
The major soybean seed production activities such as land preparation and input distribution for the
2018/2019 growing season started in October 2018 in anticipation of early rainfall. Planting in Tete and
Zambezia provinces started during first week of December 2018. In Manica and Nampula provinces,
planting commenced in the last week of December 2018, because rainfall lags behind the two major
soybean production regions of Tete and Zambezia. Early, medium and late maturing soybean seed
multiplication fields have been established. In total, of 3 ha and 36 ha for pre-basic and basic soybean
seeds, respectively have been established (Table 1). Soybean planted for basic seed production include
5.5 ha of Wamini and 8 ha of 10E (early maturing); 4.5 ha of Sana (medium maturing); 9.5 ha of
Zamboane and 4.5 ha of Wima (late maturing).
Overall, planting began during the first quarter for four crops with soybean being the first to be planted.
Planting of cowpea and sesame will begin in the second quarter around mid-January. Currently, 6.2 ha of
breeder/pre-basic seeds fields have been established against a target of 19.6 ha, whereas a total of 83.8 ha
of basic seed fields have been planted against a target of 165.1 ha (Table 1). Compared to the same period
last season, activities started slowly or delayed this season because 21 and 149 ha of pre-basic and basic
seed fields, respectively have been established around the same time last year. Perhaps delays in land
acquisition and organizing field activities among the consortium partners resulted in smaller area planted
by the end of the first quarter. More early generation seed fields will be established during the second
quarter particularly for common bean, cowpea, groundnut and sesame.
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2.1.2. Progress on certified seed production
The project provided technical support to partners to produce certified seed and quality declared seed
(QDS) during the first quarter. Seed production by project partners are progressing well; however,
activities on soybean are well ahead of all the other crops. So far 17.8 tons of soybean basic seed has been
supplied to partners to plant for certified seed during the current season (Table 4). It is expected that a few
soybean basic seed orders especially for the early maturing varieties would be received until the end of
January. In addition to the distribution of basic seed for certified seed multiplication, some of the
soybean basic seed was used to establish demonstration plots. About 600 kg soybean basic seeds have
been used for demonstration plots on 11.2 ha. Currently, the project is supporting about 57 individual
soybean community-based seed producers in Zambézia, Tete and Nampula provinces; and more than 12
farmers’ associations (Table 2) are receiving support on soybean seed production from SEMEAR. Some
of the seed companies and agro-dealers supported by SEMEAR on soybean seed production are also
listed in Table 3. The project estimates that at least 635 ha of soybean seed multiplication fields have been
established by project partners by the end of the first quarter which is quite similar to the 684 ha planted
around the same time last season. Based on the information collected so far 40% (257.8 ha) of the
soybean area planted belongs to individual farmers, 16 % (100.5 ha) planted by associations and 44%
(278 ha) planted by seed companies and agro-dealers (Table 3). Twelve of the 57 individual farmers are
females and have a total area of 48.2 ha (19%). The project will work with the Seed Inspection Unit to
inspect these fields during the second quarter to assure quality.
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Table 2 Information on area of soybean certified seed planted by Farmers’ Associations
partnering with SEMEAR during the First Quarter of FY19
District Name of Association Gender Variety Area
(ha)
Gurué Associação de Namurrequele Female Wamini 17
Gurué Associação de Namarripe Female Wima 5
Angónia Castro dos Santos Male Wamini 3
Angónia Centro De Formacao de
Satemua Male Wima 3
Gurué Associação de Murrimo Male Wima 10
Gurué Associação de Muhissa Male and Female TGx 1835-10E 15
Gurué Associacao Nerere None Male and Female Sana 1
Mocuba Associsacao mao viva de
Lissava Male and Female Wamini 1
Mocuba Associacao Ana-Gulumanha Male and Female Wamini 0.5
Angónia Solidaridad Male and Female Zamboane 30
Angónia SDAE Tsangano Male and Female Wima 8
Angónia IDE Mocambique Male and Female Wima 7
Total 100.5
Table 3 Information on area of soybean certified seed planted by some seed companies
partnering with SEMEAR during the First Quarter of FY19
Name of Company Variety Area (ha)
Companhia de Zembe Sana and Wamini 80
Solidaridad 10E 40
SBS/COPAZA 10E 80
IMAPEG 10E 4
DREAMERS 10E 5
CEPDZ Wamini 17
Sementes Nzara Yapera Wamini 12
Polo Angónia (CTT) Wamini 20
Agro Sikadzakokha Zamboane 20
Matuel Comercial Wamini 1
Total 279
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Three common bean certified producers in Tete province produced 5.4 tons of certified seed under
irrigation during the first quarter which will be sold to farmers wishing to produce grain. Seed distribution
for beans is still on-going but so far 7.5 t of basic seeds have been sold to partners. Information on
certified seed multiplication fields established will be available in the second quarter since more of the
planting is done in February.
For groundnut, the project is supporting 8 associations of community seed producer to produce quality
declared seed in various communities in Angónia district (Zidana, Ndudndu, Chiphole and Chiritse) and
Macanga district (Katete, Chiolagaga, Kafuwa, Chincuumba and Kachere). The technical support
provided to these partners include demonstrating good cultural practices such as optimum plant
population through the use of double row planting for those planting on ridges. Data on total membership
of these associations and quantity of seed used for planting is being compiled and will be presented in the
next report. The project has used 100 kg of CG7, and 60 kg each of Nametil, JL 24, and Chitala for
demonstration plots. Little information is available on pigeon pea seed multiplication by partners at this
time. Phoenix Seeds purchased 240 kg of pigeon pea variety ICEAP 0557. This seed quantity would plant
24 ha for certified seed. For pigeon pea, we have used 30 kg of ICEAP 00557 and 30 kg of ICEAP 00554
to establish on-farm demonstration plots. It is disappointing that we still have lots of pigeon pea and
groundnut basic seeds yet to be sold.
Planting of cowpea and sesame fields will begin in the second quarter since the optimum
planting window is after mid-January. Four farmers’ associations have already prepared about 10
ha of land to produce cowpea seeds and six farmers’ associations are planning to establish a total
of 15 ha of sesame certified or QDS. More information on cowpea and sesame will be available
by the end of the second quarter when fields of the crops are established. Basic seed requests
have not been received yet except for Agri-Resources in Nampula that already collected 12 kg of
three sesame varieties. In general, exact amount of basic seed distributed to partners would be
documented in the next quarter report.
Information on seed production fields is being compiled to work with the Seed Inspection Unit to
facilitate the planning and inspection of SEMEAR seed production fields and those of our partners
including community-based seed growers, farmers’ organizations and selected individual farmers within
the communities. In addition, the project is providing technical advice to partners and capacity
development through trainings to support the production of certified seed and QDS.
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2.1.3. Seed Distribution and Sales
During the first quarter of FY19, SEMEAR supplied nearly 27 t of early generation seeds to partners for
planting during the 2018/2019 growing season (Table 4). These quantities of seed can cover 690 ha.
Soybean constitutes 66% of the seeds supplied so far and this explains the demand trend for crops
considered as cash crop in this case soybean and food security crop like cowpea. The demand pattern for
FY19 is similar to that for the last season. The major concern is that the demand for the basic seeds are
not strong as originally thought since most of the seed are still in storage. However, we will know the
quantities that will remain by the end of the second quarter. The seeds were sold to seed companies,
community-based seed growers and other seed producers (Table 4). The revenues from seed sales will be
reported in the next report when all payments and accounts are reconciled. Some quantities of seeds were
used for the establishment of demonstration plots and other awareness creation activities, contribution to
district and provincial government programs, as well as contribution to partnerships activities.
Table 4: Basic seed supplied to partners for certified seed production during the 2018/2019
growing season.
Crop Quantity
(tons)
Expected
coverage (ha)
Partner
Soybean 17.94 411 Solidaridad, Phoenix Seeds, Companhia do Zembe,
Sementes Nzara Yapera, Matuel Comercial, DPASA
Nampula, SBS/COPAZA, Agri-Resources
Multiconsultant Lda
Common bean 7.02 141 Matuel Comercial, Sementes Nzara Yapera, Investrago,
iDe Moçambique, DPASA Sofala, SNV Lichinga
Groundnut 0.90 15 INVXT, DPASA Nampula
Pigeon pea 0.38 34 Phoenix Seeds, DPASA Sofala
Cowpea 1.25 49.4 DPSA Sofala, DPASA Nampula
Sesame 0.11 44.6 SNV Lichinga, Matuel Comercial, Agri-source, DPASA
Nampula
Total 27.60 695.5
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2.1.4. Seed Enterprise Development
SEMEAR’s goal is aligned with the Government’s Poverty Reduction goals which include the
improvements in the national seed systems. Small seed multiplication initiatives are implemented in the
communities within the FtF ZOI and being scaled up to provincial and national levels. SEMEAR seed
multiplication activities are implemented as an inclusive seed business model that comprises of: (i) direct
engagement/partnership with community-based stakeholders (associations and individual farmers) and
private seed companies that receive basic seeds of improved varieties, and marketing them through a
network of agro-dealers and retailers in the communities. The participation of community-based
(stakeholders) farmers in certified seed multiplication is also expected to open a new income opportunity
through participation in high-value (seed) production, which guarantees them premium prices and market
opportunities; (ii) capacity building and on-going extension support for seed producers to elevate
farmers’ technical, managerial and organizational competencies in various aspects of production and
marketing as well as enabling them to self-finance future farming operations. SEMEAR seed
multiplication activities are implemented under the auspices of the “market systems development
approach” that looks at constraints and opportunities at the core market system; within the regulatory
environment as well as within the supporting functions of the seed system in the FtF ZOI and the nation
at large.
During the first quarter (October-December 2018), the project trained identified individual farmers and
farmers’ associations in the farming communities in seed production, marketing and awareness creation
activities such as demonstration plots establishment and seed multiplication. During this period,
SEMEAR sold basic seeds at subsidized prices to seed producers including seed companies, farmers’
associations, individual community seed growers, and agro-dealers to support certified seed production.
The project has compiled the list of community seed production partners to facilitate field inspection by
the Seed Inspection Unit during the second and third quarters.
Besides direct partnership with seed producers, the project is also developing partnership with
SUSTENTA to leverage on the support by SUSTENTA to Emerging Commercial Farmers “PACE”
(Produtor Agrícola Comercial Emergente). This model of partnership also involves SDAE whose role
will be marketing the initiatives by promoting the seed multipliers in the district. In FY19 the initiative
will involve up to 8 farmers working on approximately 8ha for a pilot, to multiply common bean, cowpea,
pigeon pea and sesame. Farmers will be supplied with basic seeds and trained on seed multiplication and
marketing, inspection and certification services will also be facilitated. This new approach of partnership
is expected to reach a total of 18 seed multipliers being one per district. Nevertheless, there are already
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existing seed multipliers who has the capacity to multiply and market certified seeds in the communities
including, Américo Sisseque and Mussa Ali in Nampula, Emilia Savaio and Farnela in Chimoio, Agro
Sikhadzakhoka, Palusso and Emilia in Tete; and many others who have been engaged since the start of
the project.
2.2. Component 2: Promote and scale-up the adoption of best crop management
practices in the FtF ZOI using participatory approaches
2.2.1. On-farm demonstrations
SEMEAR in partnerships with farmers associations, seed companies, agro-dealers, the Technology
Transfer Centers and the Extension Service (SDAE) and other donor-funded programs across the FtF ZOI
identified male and female farmers to host demonstration plots during the 2018/2019 growing season.
Working with stakeholders on establishing demonstration plots are practical ways for awareness creation
and promotion of the technologies through “learning by doing”. The technologies being promoted include
improved varieties of all six crops and improved crop management practices in the context of the
dominant cropping systems in the various locations. The technologies consist of better agronomy such as
best planting time, row spacing, planting density, use of Bradyrhizobium inoculant and P fertilization,
weed control, and pest and disease control. Therefore, the demonstration plots are set-up to have both
suitable variety selection message as well as the most appropriate technologies for legume seed
production at the’ disposal of farmers. For instance, some demonstration plots have been established
including a plot of maize at a spot previously planted to legume (soybean or cowpea). Maize is an
important integral component of the household diets in combination with legumes. The maize is included
in the demonstration plot to signify the importance of maize in crop rotation within the seed production
systems among smallholder farmers. A total of 160 soybean demonstration plots were established in
Nampula (22), Tete (53) and Zambezia (85) (Table 5) using about 600 kg of seeds. Forty-nine demo plots
representing 31% are managed by female farmers. More soybean demo plots will be established during
the second quarter.
Demonstration plot on cowpea and sesame will be established during the second quarter; hence the
activity will start around mid-January 2019 and continue until end of February 2019. Therefore, the exact
number for the total demonstration plots established for the 2018/2019 growing season will be
documented in the next quarter report.
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Information generated from the demonstration plots will be analyzed and lessons shared among farmers
and other stakeholders during field days and training sessions. SEMEAR demonstration plots are no-
longer just considered as a tool for ‘seeing is believing’ but also generate useful information for
modifying future farming trends related to legume seed production. As such, the size of the demonstration
plots vary with land availability where the 10 m by 10 m plot is the minimum parcel size and go as large
as 0.25 ha where land and other resources are not limiting.
To showcase improved varieties and best management practices for common bean, 60 demonstration
plots were established in partnership with seven farmers’ associations and one NGO, iDE Mozambique in
Tete province. In Gurué district, 10 demonstration plots were established with CLUSA and 11 with
individual smallholder farmers. A typical demonstration kit for each site included 1 kg of seed of each of
the four improved bean varieties and 1 kg of basal fertilizer (23% N, 21% P2O5, 0% K + 4% S). The pack
was sufficient to cover a plot 10 m x 10m for each variety. At each site the four improved bean varieties
promoted were one sugar type (Sugar 131), two red-mottled (CAL 143 and NUA 45) and one black type
(A222). About 324 kg of seeds were used for the demos. The recommended spacing is 50 cm between
rows and 10 cm between plants within the rows. For comparison, the host farmers planted a variety from
their own source using improved management practices. It is expected that farmers within the
associations and those passing by will be able to see and learn about increased productivity from these
demonstration sites since these demonstration plots were established at strategic locations with easy
access. However, data on how many males and how many females are hosting the demos will be collected
from partners and reported.
For groundnut, the project supported iDE Mozambique with 180 kg of CG7 variety for demonstrations. It
is estimated that the seed would be enough to cover 70 demos. A full account of the demos and
beneficiaries will be reported in the next quarter report. No pigeon pea demonstration was establishment
by the end of the first quarter, but demos will be established in the second quarter.
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Table 5 Demonstration plots established in the FtF ZOI during the First Quarter of FY18
Crop* Male Demos Females Demos Total No. Total Area (ha)
Soybean 111 49 160 11.2
Common bean NA NA 81 3.24
Groundnut NA NA 70 0.7
Pigeon pea NA NA NA NA
Cowpea - - - -
Sesame - - - -
Total 111 49 311 15.14
*Cowpea and sesame are late planted crops; hence their demonstration plots have not been planted by the
end of the first quarter.
NA – Not available at this time but will provide in the next quarter report
2.2.2. Training and scaling up adoption
Seed production training sessions were conducted for farmers, technicians, seed companies and research
partners. All the six crops were covered under several topics that included agronomic practices for seed
production, calculation of production cost, good legume management practices in the field, inoculant
application, variety selection, input use and various themes on establishing demonstration plots. The
training was conducted in several districts within the FTF ZOI. A total of 246 individuals (153 males and
111 females) were trained within the past quarter (Table 6). Since the main crop of concern during the
quarter was soybean, most of the trainings were conducted in soybean producing areas. However, more
stakeholders in other districts within the FTF ZOI will be trained in the next quarter in line with planting
the other crops plus management of soybean in the field.
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Table 6. Training sessions conducted during the First Quarter of FY19
District Location Male Female Total Date Topic
Gurué Magige 65 26 91 30-Nov-18
Crop management practices
including inoculant, fertilizer
and chemical application and
production cost calculation
Mocuba Lissava 5 13 0 07-Dec-18 Crop management and Seeds
multiplication cost Mocuba Selemane 6 9 15 07-Dec-18
Mocuba Namuthu 10 1 11 08-Dec-18 Introduction of soybean and
production systems
Malema Muhissa 17 6 23 19-Dec-18 Seed production, cost of
production calculation
Angónia Vila
Ulongué 2 9 11 26-Dec-18
Variety selection, Crop
management, importance of
Inoculant use
Angónia Kanhanja 8 2 10 27-Dec-18
Angónia Domue 2 15 17 27-Dec-18
Angónia Calomue 12 4 16 28-Dec-18
Macanga Gandali 10 2 12 02-Jan-19
Tsangano Kaudza 12 10 22 03-Jan-19
Angónia Hamba 3 7 10 03-Jan-19
Angónia Ntengo
Umodzi 1 7 8 03-Jan-19
Total 153 111 246
2.2.3. Field days, exchange visits, and meetings
The project continues to improve its visibility and impacts through contribution to improve seed systems
in locations where SEMEAR operates. SEMEAR participates in several stakeholders’ seed and fertilizer
meetings at district, province and national levels through presentation to share results and impacts or
outcomes of project activities. For example, experiences from SEMEAR were presented at Soya Value
Chain discussion organized by Technoserve on whether the small commercial farmer model has
succeeded in spurring rural development for small scale farmers. Also a presentation on “the interactive
effects of phosphorus and inoculant on nitrogen fixation and yield of soybean” was given by a member of
the SEMEAR team, Carlos Pedro during a seminar on the dissemination of research results organized by
IIAM in Cuamba. No field day was organized during the first quarter since there were no crops in the
field.
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Participation in Exhibition and meeting with
Dreamers Group: During the first quarter, the project
implementing teams participated in two exhibitions in
Domué, Angónia in district and Maconje in Tsangano
district (Fig 1) which were organized to create
awareness about improved varieties for the 2018/19
growing season and to link farmers to the local seed
and input supply networks. SEMEAR also had
meetings with the youth group, Dreamers. The group
plans to establish six hectares of common bean
certified seed using the variety A222.
2018/19 Agriculture Season Opening Ceremony: In October 2018, the project participated in the
2018/19 Agriculture Season Opening Ceremony in Monapo district in Nampula province and in many
other locations. The Nampula event was participated by members of the Central Government (Minister of
Education & Human Development of Mozambique – Mrs. Conceita Sortane represented the President of
Mozambique), Nampula Provincial Governor, Director of Agriculture & Food Security and other
distinguished people. As in the last season, SEMEAR supplied basic seed: 400 kg of groundnuts and
cowpea to the Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Food Security. The basic seed supplied will be
distributed to selected farmers who have been engaged for certified seed multiplication in Nampula
province. The active participation of SEMEAR comes in response to the Provincial Government’s call for
increased seed production and use in Nampula. In December 2018 a follow up meeting was organized by
the Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Food Security in Nampula. The meeting was convened to
discuss the current agriculture season, activities of the agricultural season and future perspectives.
Visit by USAID staff: Ken Hasson of USAID Maputo visited SEMEAR and other USAID-funded
projects in early December 2018 for monitoring and learning and strengthen collaboration among USAID
funded initiatives in Nampula and Zambezia provinces. The visit was jointly organized by SEMEAR,
RAMA-NC and other stakeholders. The visit started with in a meeting at IITA offices in Nampula to
discuss progress of implementation, and a visit to the seed storage (Fig. 2; Left) and Aflatoxin Lab
supported by USAID. Field trip to project sites in Nampula and Zambézia (Fig 2; Right) was undertaken
to discuss and learn about the effectiveness of SEMEAR’s partnerships with stakeholders for scaling up
improved technologies. Ken provided feedback on his visits.
Fig 1. Input Exhibition at Maconje, Tsangano.
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Fig 2. Ken being briefed in SEMEAR seed storage facility at IITA, Nampula (left); and visit to SEMEAR
partner, SBS/COPAZA at their seed processing plant at Magige, Gurué district (Right).
2.2.4. Gender Issues in SEMEAR Implementation
The project continues to make concerted efforts to increase female participation in project activities by
targeting women to host demo plots, for seed multiplication and for specific training sessions. During the
first quarter, SEMEAR provided seeds and inputs to women farmers to encourage them to host
demonstration plots. The project organized women targeted soybean training for Associação Mão Viva de
Lissava in Mocuba (Fig 3) focusing on crop management, seed production cost and record keeping. The
project provided them with 50 kg of basic seed for certified seed multiplication. SEMEAR also supported
two other women associations, Associacao de mulheres de Namirequele and Associação de mulheres de
Namarripe in Murrimo, Gurué district. The two associations produce soybean certified seeds with support
from SEMEAR team providing technical assistance on varieties, general agronomy, inoculant application
procedures prior to planting and provided them with peat-based inoculants for their fields. During the first
quarter, the project supported a women group called NOSARA based in Ruace who are well established
in soybean production and processing. The group produces soybean and processes into different soy-
based food products such as soybean flour, bread, cakes, biscuits, soymilk etc. that are sold locally and
across the province especially during trade fairs. We trained them on soybean production practices, cost
of production, profit margin and how to maximize returns on their investment.
22
In Angónia, SEMEAR is supporting a group of women to
collectively procure inputs. A group of 10 women from
Angónia district collectively acquired 10 kg of cowpea
variety IT 1263 from SEMEAR and distributed among
themselves. The women will produce the cowpea variety
on their fields on trial basis since the crop is not
commonly grown in Angónia. The women selected the
variety from demonstration plots last season because it is
a dual-purpose cowpea variety that can be consumed as a
leafy vegetable and/or grain. Another group of 25
females from Kaudza Tsangano came together under the
guidance of SEMEAR to discuss the possibility of
purchasing fertilizer in bulk and later repackaging into 10
or 25 kg to facilitate affordability among women farmers.
In our efforts to place gender as an important component of SEMEAR implementation, the project
completed gender based survey data collection during the first quarter for gender analysis. The study will
identify, understand and explain the gaps between male and female beneficiaries in the households and
within project communities. It will examine the differences between male and female beneficiaries in
terms of their roles, decision-making and access to resources, inputs, opportunities and service delivery as
well as constraints with particular relevance to project implementation. The report will be ready by end of
March and will be submitted with the second quarter report.
2.2.5. Environmental Monitoring and Mitigation Plan (EMMP) Compliance
The project is committed to compliance with the environmental monitoring and mitigation plan and
therefore handled soil and plant related activities in accordance with recommendations to avoid pollution,
wastage and harm to staff, partners and other living organisms. For instance, land preparation and
planting were done along the contour to control erosion; hence minimize sediment movement downhill to
water bodies. Where necessary, ridges were constructed to reduce the speed of surface water movement
and to ensure enhanced infiltration. In instances where chemicals were used in controlling leaf beetles,
caterpillars and other insect pests in the fields, care was exercised in the handling as well as disposal of
wastes. Staff and partners were trained on chemical identification and proper application procedures that
prevent contamination of the environment or poisoning of humans and animals. When using any
chemicals, protective gear such as gumboots, overalls, masks, gloves and helmets were mandatory and
Fig 3. An IITA technician (Carlos Pedro)
training members of Associsacao Mao
Viva de Lissava in Mocuba on seed
production costs and record keeping
23
using the right concentration and limited frequency of pesticide use. Only staff and farmers trained in safe
use and handling of pesticides were recommended to conduct spraying activities. The project emphasized
IPM including the use of rotation and intercropping systems to reduce weeds and pest infestations. All
pesticide products procured are registered and approved by USEPA as detailed in the 2017 USAID
Mozambique PERSUAP. The pesticides procured for use are also approved by the Mozambican
authorities. The insecticides used during the first quarter of FY19 include Cypermethrin and Imidacloprid
to control aphids, thrips, pod borers, army worms, and other insects in the off-season seed multiplication
fields. The project used Primophos-methyl for seed treatment in storage to prevent weevil attack
especially in cowpea.
3. Communications and farmers’ outreach
During the reporting period, SEMEAR finalized promotional videos in both English and Portuguese. The
videos have been uploaded on the project website. The project developed two technical manuals - one for
seed production and another for pigeon pea production directed to extension agents. Two radio programs
on common bean production practices were broadcasted in Gurue and one radio program on common
bean and soybean was aired in Angonia during the first quarter of FY19. Other communication and
promotional materials such as long sleeve blue-shirts would be ready for distribution during SEMEAR
stakeholders meeting in the FY19.
SEMEAR made a presentation during the IITA Partnership for Development (P4D) Science week at IITA
Headquarters, Ibadan, Nigeria on 25th November 2018. The presentation was made by SEMEAR Project
Manager, Carlos Malita and the title was “Building life impacts through partnerships”. SEMEAR was
awarded the first place in a poster presentation contest under P4D. This is a remarkable achievement that
shows impacts the project is making through partnership with stakeholders (seed multipliers – private
companies, farmers associations and individual farmers). SEMEAR is on track to making a difference in
increasing access and use of good quality seeds of improved varieties and enhancing adoption of
improved technology.
2. Project Performance Indicators
As with previous seasons, partnerships have been essential in the delivery of the results of the project.
The season started with 20 partnerships (Table 7) with farmer organizations, seed producers and other
non-governmental organizations. Such partnerships provide the means for attaining the targeted volume
of seed production.
24
In addition to partnerships, capacities of some of the organizations and farmers were built to improve
their operations and knowledge in the application of the promoted technologies. During the first quarter,
the capacities of nine producers and 160 farmers were built (Table 7). It is expected that the knowledge
gained will improve access to improved seeds and complementary technologies. This will eventually lead
to high yields and increased incomes.
Table 7: Capacity development in the First Quarter of FY2019
Indicator Disaggregation Target Results Annual Target
Partnerships (N) Production 22 20 25
Beneficiary organizations
(N)
Type
For-profit 1 0 17
Producer 9 9 80
Total 10 9 97
Individuals trained (N)
Farmers 140 160 3,395
Extension 30 0 105
Total 170 160 3,500
Individual beneficiaries (N)
Total 30,000 34,208 75,000
Type of individual
Farmers 29,910 34,105 73,750
People in government 90 103 2,250
Age
15-29 9,900 11,289 24,750
30+ 20,100 22,919 50,250
During the quarter under review, 34,208 individuals benefited from the project mostly through seed
distribution, demonstrations and training. About 33% of these beneficiaries were aged between 15 and 29
years. This provides an indication of the extent to which the project reaches younger farmers. The
distribution by gender shows that more female farmers benefit from the capacity building activities and
seed and apply them (Fig 4). However, during the first quarter, the female farmers did not use the same
25
proportion of land. This may be due to the fact that cowpea which is mostly cultivated by females is
planted late. The result is therefore expected to improve in the second quarter when all fields are planted.
Figure 4: Distribution of beneficiaries by gender
As shown in Table 8, more than 41,000 farmers applied improved technologies including good quality
seeds and various cultural practices. The farmers who applied quality seeds also applied recommended
cultural practices. Younger farmers featured prominently in the application of technologies constituting
more than 30% of the total applicants. In total, 60,056 hectares were put under improved technologies
during the quarter. Due to the potential of the technologies, these fields are expected to produce more than
those without technologies. This will ensure the availability of adequate food for the beneficiary
households and incomes for those who are able to sell.
26
Table 8: Technology application in FY18
Indicator Disaggregation Target Results Annual Target
Farmers who
apply
technologies
(N)
Age
15-29 9,900 13,653 24,750
30+ 20,100 27,717 50,250
Technology
Crop genetics 9,000 20,684 22,500
Cultural practices 21,000 20,684 52,500
Total 30,000 41,369 75,000
Area under
improved
technologies
(ha)
Age
15-29 19,800 19,819 34,650
30+ 40,200 40,238 70,350
Technology
Crop genetics 28,571 30,028 50,000
Cultural practices 31,475 30,028 55,000
Total 60,000 60,056 105,000
5. Major Implementation Issues
Legumes are open pollinated crops which can easily be recycled for more than one
season with little loss of vigour if the crop is managed well; hence some seed
producers don’t regularly invest in basic seed since the last season’s crop could be
used to produce other seed categories such as C2 and C3. Thus, some of the basic seed
produced by SEMEAR are not sold.
Some partners that are supported with basic seeds on loan at subsidized prices and are
supposed to pay back after selling their certified seed. However, they fail to make
payment. This fact has created “bad debtor” situation for the project and that prevents
them from returning to the project with basic orders.
27
The unanticipated delay in fund transfer from USAID affected some of the consortium
partners which resulted in slow start of activities in the first quarter.
6. Collaboration with other donor projects
During the reporting period, SEMEAR collaborated with USAID and other donor-funded interventions.
Among the USAID projects, SEMEAR is actively participating in regular monthly coordination meetings.
These meetings are hosted in rotating manner by the projects. SEMEAR has capitalized on these
coordination meetings and developed synergetic relationships with USAID interventions with the
objectives listed below:
i) With FtF Inova: SEMEAR participated in the development of the ToRs that will support
APROSE operationalize a Seed Quality Award System in the FtF ZOI and in the country.
The seed award is expected to trigger significant changes in the perceptions of quality that
will in turn increase demand and use of improved seeds by farmers;
ii) With RAMA Nacala Corridor (RAMA-NC): SEMEAR is working towards the development of
seed businesses combined with provision of mechanization services in Gurué, directly with
Dreamers Group which is a partner of both projects.
iii) With RAMA Beira Corridor (RAMA–BC), SEMEAR is providing inputs (seed) and capacity
development to farmers that are engaged by RAMA-BC in the implementation of
Conservation Agriculture (CA) demonstration plots and hosting field days to show-case the
benefits of using improved technologies in the context of CA
iv) With SPEED+: SEMEAR is actively working on the Task Force that is developing the ToRs for
consultancy aimed in restructuring of USEBA to be a more effective entity that produces and
distributes basic seeds on a sustainable manner;
Other collaborations are with: (i) InovAgro/Swiss Funded – in support of APROSE, DNSA and other
seed businesses in the Northern part of Mozambique with information and technologies; (ii)
TechnoServe/Dutch Agriculture Program – SEMEAR supplies basic seeds and business services
development to SBS/COPAZA farmers to multiply certified seeds in Zambézia and Manica provinces;
(iii) Solidaridad/Dutch – supply of basic seeds and business services development to seed producers
engaged by Solidaridad in Zambézia and Tete provinces; (iv) iDE Mozambique – in the development of
seed business enterprises in the plateau of Tete (Angónia and Tsangano); (v) FAO – in the dissemination
of improved technologies through establishment of demonstration plots and organize joint field days.
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7. Key Activities Planned for Next Quarter
Establish more demonstration plots
Continue planting early generations seeds especially the late planted crops
Continue seed sales
Support certified seed producers
Conduct day-today maintenance of seed fields and demonstrations plots
Link seed producers to the Seed Inspection Units for inspection and certification of seeds
Conduct stakeholder training sessions
Organize and conduct field days
Organize joint field visits with USAID monitoring Team
Monitoring and backstopping seeds producers
Create awareness on importance of using improved seeds and good agronomic practices
Collect data from partners and project beneficiaries
Continue preparing reports on mid-term adoption studies and gender analysis
8. Evaluation / Assessment Update
Evaluations, Assessments, Studies and Audits
Include any and all types of evaluations, financial or programmatic, internal or external.
Completed: List evaluations,
assessments, studies and/or audits held
last year
Major Findings/Recommendations
All studies are on-going
Planned: List evaluations, assessments, studies, and/or audits planned for next two quarters.
1. Preparation of study report on mid-term adoption to assess the uptake of improved varieties, improved seeds, and other
complementary technologies.
2. Preparation of study report on gender analysis as part of monitoring, evaluation, and learning process.
9. Administrative Update
Unfortunately, the SEMEAR project Communication Officer resigned from her position to travel outside
the country on long-term mission. Therefore, the position was advertised, and six people were
interviewed. The selected candidate will be notified next week. We hope to have a replacement by end of
February. In addition, the contract of the Agribusiness Officer ended in November 2018, but it was not
29
renewed. We don’t intend to fill the position. The program manager will support in the fulfilment of
agribusiness related activities.
10. Financial Information
During the first quarter of FY19, SEMEAR spent an estimated US$739,701 on cost items indicated in
Table 9. The information provided below comes from records of local expenditures in Nampula. The
official financial report will be submitted by IITA Headquarters. Cost share contribution is not applicable
to SEMEAR.
Table 9 – Estimated SEMEAR expenditures from 1 October 2018 to 31 December 2018.
Order Cost Item Description US$
1 Office cost, supplies Include: security, rents, suppliers (electricity,
water) stationary, and others
5,467
2 Field activities
and suppliers
Include: land preparations, chemicals, materials,
field day supplies, etc.)
42,765
3 Travels Include: allowances (Per diem and
accommodation) and tickets
43,087
4 Training and
workshops
Include: farmer training, field days, project
planning and review meetings, etc.
32,845
5 Personnel Staff salaries, casual staff wages, taxes, and
allowances
180,112
6 Consultancy
Services
Include: hiring of enumerators and other
consultants
256,909
7 Other direct costs Including communications and minor purchases 62,456
Sub-Total 623,641
Overhead (18.61%) 116,060
Grand Total 739,701