The Second BENEFIT ISSD-Ethiopia seed alert highlights the effect of COVID-19 mobility restrictions on the Ethiopian seed sector

The second BENEFIT ISSD-Ethiopia COVID-19 seed alert that was published this week highlighted issues related to release and registration of new varieties, timely supply of early generation seed (EGS),  quality assurance in EGS production, reduced availability of varieties in high demand and challenges related to producers access to agro-inputs, labor and finance.

The 2^nd seed alert (#02 June 2020 seed alert) outlines COVID-19 related major challenges and urgent actions needed in the Ethiopian seed sector, based on virtual surveys and focus group discussions with various stakeholders. It outlines the major alerts, their impacts, actions required, stakeholders involved, and a responsible body to take the initiatives. The effort is designed and initiated by Wageningen Centre for Development Innovation (WCDI) and ISSD Ethiopia Program to raise awareness on the situation and its impact of COVID on the seed sector.

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• Introductory Brief (a quick scan to better understand how COVID-19 affect the seed sector)
• # 01 May 2020 Seed Alert
• # 02 June 2020 Seed Alert
• Q & A on BENEFIT ISSD-Ethiopia first seed alert briefing in relation to COVID-19, May 2020