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Mid-term performance evaluation of the scaling seeds and technologies partnership in Africa

2017EnglishEvaluated project title: Scaling seeds and technologies partnership (SSTP) | Task order title: Feed the future program evaluation for effectiveness and learning (PEEL) Agricultural technologyAfrica South Of Sahara Tanzania East

Metadata

Authors
Longley, Catherine | Kamiri, Lewis | Remington, Thomas
Contract/Code
AID-OAA-TO-16-00008 | AID-OAA-I-15-00024 | AID-OAA-A-13-00040
Institution
8414 - Mendez England and Associates 42111 USAID. Bur. for Resilience Food Security (RFS)
Keywords
Agricultural technology | Seeds | Partnerships | Crop protection | Farmers | Seed production | Commercialization | Quality control | Agricultural production AN00 Plant breeding, seeds and physiology (1840.0) | Food crops (1558.5) | Small scale enterprises (428.0)
ID
PA00N5FH
File size
1920 KB
Source
Open PDF

Abstract

The Scaling Seeds and Technologies Partnership (SSTP) is a five-year, $46.8 million grants-based program implemented by the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa in Ethiopia, Ghana, Malawi, Mozambique, Senegal, and Tanzania (2013?2018).  The evaluation of SSTP addressed overall performance of the Program and questions about: (1) management/administration; (2) engagement of the private sector; (3) the scaling and adoption of technologies; and the (4) enabling environment.  Evaluation methods included: (1) review of data and documentation; (2) farmer and online surveys; (3) key informant interviews; and (4) focus group discussions.  The evaluation concluded that SSTP has made good progress, with the main focus on improved varieties rather than complementary technologies.  Partnerships, coordination, and communication have been very successful, and additional microfinance partners should be encouraged.  Effective data management systems are in place and can be improved by greater attention to learning.  Private sector engagement led to increased production of quality seed for the four focal crops in all six countries, though capacity constraints for seed production remain a major challenge.  SSTP has been effective in increasing the use of improved varieties by both direct beneficiaries and indirect beneficiaries.  Formal seed distribution strategies can be enhanced through improved marketing strategies and strengthened relationships between seed companies and agro-dealers.  Linkages with output markets have been shown to create demand for seed of improved varieties.  Demand can also be increased by improving the effectiveness of demonstration plots and by engaging multiple stakeholders, particularly specialized communication and promotion organizations who use an integrated range of communication channels.  Promotional methods that incorporate farmer-to-farmer learning will have considerably greater impact.  SSTP has had positive impacts on country-level policies and regulatory frameworks by working through national seed traders' associations to put existing seed laws into practice.  (Author abstract)