General

General

Breeding for Africa; joint development of new vegetable varieties

We are convinced that market-oriented breeding will highly contribute to farmer productivity and rural economy in Africa.

Quality seed of adequate plant varieties is the basis of the food industry.
Costs of production of seeds are low in relation to the value of the end product.
However, plant breeding is a long term effort that requires commitment and expertise.

In the Tanzanian Vegetable Seeds Program (TVSP), Rijk Zwaan and East West have shown small scale seed activities in Tanzania for several years.
Based on this experience and promising results, Rijk Zwaan and East West now extend their commitment to the agricultural development of Africa.

In 2007 Rijk Zwaan AfriSem ltd. was established. In this company, we aim to jointly develop new vegetable varieties with high quality standards for the African farmers and consumers.
Where appropriate, this will be strongly supported by technology, facilities and know-how of Rijk Zwaan, East West and research partners.