Uganda govt establishes National Seed Board

Uganda government has set up the National Seed Board in a bid to ensure access to good quality seeds and other propagated plantings for farmers in the country.

The Seeds and Plants Act of 2006 establishes the National Seed Board (NSB) which will advise the minister of agriculture, animal industry and fisheries on the National Seed Policy.

The 12-member NSB is headed by Okaasai Opolot, who is currently the director for crop resources in the ministry of agriculture, animal industry and fisheries. The board will serve for a three-year mandate from 2013 to 2016.

Other board members include Fred Babweteera, Keith Bitamazire, Dr. Francis Byekwaso, Dr. Job Alunga Chemutai, Christopher Gashirabake, and Emmanuel Gareeba Gaso.

Others also include Dr. Imelda Kashaija, Dr. Lastus Serunjogi Katende, Rachel Musoke, Dr. Phinahas Tulamuhabwe and Komayombi Bulegeya.

State minister for Karamoja Affairs Barbara Nekesa said that the board will also advise the minister on the informal seed sector and propagated materials.

The board will also advise the minister on variety introductions, breeders, seed production and maintenance. Also, the board will establish a system of implementing seed policies through technical committees.

The NSB will also support the minister to formulate regulations, review the national seed supply and set standards for controlling the development of seed distinctness, uniformity and stability.

Also, the NSB will advise plant breeding organization on the market and farmers’ requirements.