On October 2, producers, women producers, rural community actors, and stakeholders gathered in Kpalimé, Togo, to discuss preserving and sharing local seeds. The event, part of the 2026 Green Action Week, marked the culmination of activities aimed at promoting seed sovereignty in Togo. Organized by the Togolese Consumers Association (ATC) with support from partners, the event focused on the theme "Community of Sharing" and specifically explored "Liberating Land, Restoring Seed Sovereignty in Togo through Sharing."
The initiative seeks to empower communities to preserve their seed resources and reduce dependence on commercial seeds. It emphasizes passing down knowledge between generations, particularly that held by women and experienced producers. Discussions centered on conserving, selecting, and multiplying local seeds. Participants shared experiences and knowledge on traditional practices for conserving and transmitting seeds, as well as ways to increase their availability within communities.
A seed fair accompanied the event, offering a space for exhibiting and exchanging seeds and agricultural products. This allowed producers to share local varieties and showcase expertise in seed conservation. To reach a broader audience, radio broadcasts were produced in partnership with local radios, conveying messages on preserving local seeds, agricultural biodiversity, and food sovereignty.
Agboka Koffi, head of the Health and Environment Commission at ATC, highlighted the growing dependence on hybrid and commercial seeds as a challenge to family farming and preserving local varieties. He urged producers to strengthen practices for conserving and sharing seeds. Koffi emphasized that seed sovereignty is crucial for preserving agricultural biodiversity, food security, and local know-how.
Kumessi Yaovi Evenunye, executive director of the Center for Rural Development Action (CADR), noted that seeds represent not only agricultural inputs but also heritage and expertise. He stressed the importance of sharing seeds, knowledge, and experiences among producers. The event provided a platform for stakeholders to engage with these issues and explore strategies for promoting seed sovereignty in Togo.
The 2026 Green Action Week edition in Togo is led by the ATC with support from partners. Through such initiatives, Togo aims to enhance its agricultural sector's resilience and promote sustainable practices. By focusing on seed sovereignty, the country seeks to empower its rural communities and ensure food security.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment to preserving local seeds and promoting seed sovereignty. Stakeholders recognized the need for continued collaboration and knowledge-sharing to achieve these goals. By working together, Togo's agricultural sector can become more sustainable and resilient.
Key points
- The event aimed to promote seed sovereignty and preserve local seeds in Togo.
- The initiative seeks to empower communities to preserve their seed resources and reduce dependence on commercial seeds.
- The event provided a platform for stakeholders to engage with issues related to seed sovereignty and explore strategies for promoting it in Togo.
