Building and running any business is challenging, and some contend that running a seed business is harder than most. First, risks are extremely high, due largely to weather but also to the fact that the product—seed—is a fragile, living entity that continues to deteriorate through processing, storage and transportation activities. Second, financial institutions in all countries, especially in developing countries, are usually reluctant to supply working or investment capital at market rates to seed companies, particularly in the absence of collateral.This means that the founders and owners of these companies often take on major personal financial risks. Finally, the research and development needed to supply good raw materials to seed companies, specifically base genetics, have long been neglected in many African countries. The good news is that some countries are beginning to restock empty pipelines, due largely to the efforts of some extremely talented and dedicated
African scientists and the financial support of a group of enlightened governments and far-sighted donors.
This is just a starting point for seed company managers or farm managers. As with any tool, the skill is in the hands of the builder.
Africa’s smallholder farmers and their families need seed company managers who are good builders.
“Wasting even one cycle with sub-standard, low quality seed is a serious loss for the farmer and her family.”
END OF INTRO.
No comments:
Post a Comment