In a move to combat the proliferation of counterfeit seeds in Ethiopia, regional regulatory authorities in Amhara, Oromia, and central Ethiopia have embarked on a pilot project to implement barcode technology for seed certification. The initiative comes as a response to the growing concern over the spread of non-genuine seeds, particularly in the case of hybrid maize and vegetable seeds.
A barcode is a machine-readable optical label that contains information about the item to which it is attached. The use of barcodes is expected to be particularly beneficial in addressing the challenges associated with counterfeit seed distribution, with a specific focus on maize, which has been significantly impacted by this issue. By incorporating the barcode method into the seed certification process, regulatory bodies aim to ensure that only genuine seeds reach farmers, thereby safeguarding their economic interests and enhancing agricultural productivity.
Counterfeit seed practices have been identified as a significant threat to the integrity of the seed sector, prompting collaborative efforts between regulatory bodies, seed companies, and farmers to address this pressing concern.
In February 2023, the Ethiopian -Netherlands Seed Partnership (ENSP) collaborated with regulatory authorities from Oromia, Amhara, and other regions to conduct consultative workshops addressing the issue of counterfeit seed. The primary objective of these workshops was to comprehensively assess the extent of the problem, its underlying causes, and potential remedies. Participants identified several forms of counterfeit seed, including the replication of tags, the use of forged chemicals, adulteration, and re-bagging. In response to these findings, the imperative for technological intervention was underscored during the workshops. This emphasis was further reinforced at the 2023 National Seed Quality Control platform in Hawasa, where counterfeit seed was recognized as a significant challenge prevailing across the regions. Consequently, ENSP took proactive measures to support initiatives aimed at combatting seed counterfeiting in Ethiopia. As a result, ENSP directed its efforts towards addressing counterfeit seed by procuring barcode technology and providing training to seed regulatory authorities in Amhara, Oromia, and Central Ethiopia. A three-day practical training session held from December 11–13, 2023, provided an opportunity for 12 seed inspectors and IT experts to gain the basic skills of operating the barcode printer, implementing sequential numbering, and effectively coding procedures.
The tag that is printed with the barcode will contain a specific lot number comprising a combination of letters and numbers, which is assigned by the regulatory bodies for the purpose of tracking. This equipment will assist the regional regulatory authorities in generating labels with barcodes and distributing them to seed companies in a timely manner. Consequently, the regulatory bodies will have the capability to trace the origin of the seeds when any issues are reported to them. Furthermore, this process will mitigate challenges related to the timing of tag affixing for both the regulatory body and seed producer companies, ensuring simplicity and compliance with regulations.
The introduction of barcodes in seed certification is anticipated to significantly mitigate the expansion of counterfeit seeds and enhance the ability of regulatory authorities to trace and address any issues that may arise. Moreover, the awareness and vigilance of seed users are pivotal in thwarting illegal seed trade, as the illicit behaviour within the seed market poses a significant threat to the trust and reliance of farmers on certified seeds. Therefore, the efficacy of employing barcodes for seed certification is evident and indispensable for maintaining the integrity of the seed industry.
As we look ahead, it is evident that the adoption of barcode technology for seed certification marks a significant step towards ensuring the integrity of the seed supply chain in Ethiopia. By leveraging technological interventions and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, Ethiopia’s seed sector is poised to effectively combat the menace of counterfeit seeds and uphold the interests of farmers and agricultural productivity.
