Enhancing crop yields through pathogen-free seed generation to empower smallholder farmers in rural Zimbabwe

About the project

UK-registered Partner: Tecrea – Winnie Ntow-Boahene
Africa-registered Partner: Grain Solutions Agro Industries – Titus Mboko

The collaborative project aims to address critical crop losses such as maize, wheat and soya bean farming due to fungal and bacterial infections (e.g. Fusarium spp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa), severely impacting smallholder farmers in rural Zimbabwe.

Tecrea Ltd, partnering with Grain Solutions, proposes a strategy to utilise antimicrobial polymers with nanoparticle-forming technology to eradicate pathogens, preventing infections in seeds of these major crops while adhering to food-grade standards and cost compatibility in rural Africa. Successful implementation is expected to substantially reduce crop losses due to improved seed quality and viability. The ultimate goal is to expand effectiveness through larger-scale feasibility field testing in seed generation applications, making a broader impact on Zimbabwean smallholder farming.

The collaboration seeks to create a sustainable solution to increase crop yields and ensure food security in rural communities. Our proposed strategy is rooted in climate smart agriculture to empower smallholder farmers and increase their resilience.