SEED SYSTEMS AND FARMER ACCESS TO QUALITY SEEDS IN SOMALIA: A REVIEW OF CURRENT STATUS, CHALLENGES, AND STRATEGIC OPPORTUNITIES

Seed systems play a critical role in ensuring agricultural productivity, food security, and rural livelihoods, especially in fragile states like Somalia. Despite the centrality of agriculture to the Somali economy, the seed sector remains underdeveloped, with limited access to quality seeds for most farmers. This review examines the current status, challenges, and strategic opportunities of seed systems in Somalia using secondary data from published reports, institutional assessments, and international development organizations. The review highlights the dominance of informal seed systems, the lack of a regulatory framework, low availability of certified seeds, and the overdependence on humanitarian seed aid. However, emerging efforts by local seed enterprises, NGOs,and international agencies show promising progress toward building a more resilient and inclusive seed system. Strategic interventions such as strengthening community-based seed systems, developing national seed policies, supporting local seed enterprises, and investing in adaptive research are essential for transforming Somalia’s seed sector. This paper provides evidence-based recommendations for stakeholders to design sustainable seed system models that enhance seed quality, accessibility, and agricultural resilience in Somalia.