Implementation of the ‘BOLD’ Project Attracts Stakeholders in the Agriculture Sector.




By Our Correspondent, Arusha

Various development stakeholders in Tanzania’s agriculture sector have expressed satisfaction with the implementation of the Biodiversity for Opportunities, Livelihoods and Development (BOLD) project, which aims to strengthen the seed sector in more than 50 countries worldwide, including Tanzania, through ongoing research initiatives.

Speaking on the sidelines of an ongoing workshop for stakeholders in the plant genetic resources value chain—held at the World Vegetable Center for Eastern and Southern Africa in Arusha—they shared their appreciation for the progress of the project.

Benjamin Kilian, the project coordinator from the Global Crop Diversity Trust (Crop Trust), said the initiative will be transformative for smallholder farmers, as it encompasses seven key objectives designed to generate sustainable results in seed research, as well as boost the production and processing of neglected crops.

He added that during the five-day program, participants will engage in collaborative meetings, policy discussions, and field visits to develop practical joint solutions for resilient and inclusive food systems.

Kilian also commended the World Vegetable Center for bringing together key players in the agriculture sector, noting that the organization has been instrumental in supporting national gene banks around the world, with Tanzania being one of its major partners.

On his part, Dr. Mujuni Sospeter Kabululu, Head of the National Plant Genetic Resources Center at the Tanzania Plant Health and Pesticides Authority (TPHPA), said Tanzania is participating in three out of the project’s seven work packages. These focus on strengthening seed systems and conservation frameworks for four key crops: finger millet, bambara nuts, sweet potatoes, and moringa.

“These crops were selected through a stakeholders’ meeting where we agreed on which types of crops should be prioritized for research and increased utilization,” explained Dr. Kabululu.

Meanwhile, Colleta Ndunguru, Country Director of the World Vegetable Center, stated that the project has created an excellent platform by bringing together more than 40 experts to discuss best practices for preserving plant genetic resources and safeguarding indigenous seeds, while also exchanging knowledge that will help strengthen the global seed sector.

“We have been working closely with our partners—the Tanzania Plant Health and Pesticides Authority (TPHPA), the Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI), and the Tanzania Official Seed Certification Institute (TOSCI)—in sharing knowledge and expertise that will support the production of seeds that are disease-resistant and adaptable to climate change,” Ndunguru said.

Dr. Adolf Saria from TOSCI added that the project will help ensure that previously neglected crops receive the attention they deserve.


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