National Seed Policy of the Gambia (2018-2028).

This Policy outlines the goals, strategies, and actions for developing an effective and sustainable seed sector in The Gambia, and thus defines roles and responsibilities of various institutions and governmental agencies, and of the private sector. The Policy recognises that quality seed of improved and adapted varieties is essential for enhancing crop production, food security, rural income and environmental protection. The Policy focuses on the following matters: seed production system; variety registration and seed classes; seed quality control and certification standards; seed pricing, extension and promotion; seed marketing and distribution, through import and export measures; research and development of new varieties and crops suitable for different agro-ecological zones and resilient to climate change impacts; participation and empowerment of youth and women in the seed sector; recognition and protection of farmers’ rights; incentives and support for the private sector and the informal sector to engage in seed production and marketing; strengthening regional and international cooperation and capacity building in the seed sector.
The Policy provides a classification of crops by their economic importance and potential impact on food and nutrition security, including: rice, groundnut, millet, maize, fruits and horticultural crops; it recognises how advantageous the application of biotechnology in the seed industry may be, as an important tool in the struggle to reduce poverty, improve food security, reduce malnutrition, and improve the livelihoods of the rural and urban population, and thus provides for measures and incentives to improve the scientific capabilities of local private biotechnology enterprises. Concerning plant protection measures, this Policy focuses on: strengthening plant quarantine regulations; the enhancement of phytosanitary aspect, seed storage techniques and pesticide supply; the assessment and quantification of crop losses; monitoring pests and disease and development of pest control practices.