Governing Seeds in East Africa in the Face of Climate Change: Assessing Political and Social Outcomes

This article aims to assess political and social outcomes of the formalisation and commercialisation of the seed sector, by comparing maize seed system development in Ethiopia, Malawi and Tanzania, combining policy analysis with quantitative analysis of farmers’ seed use. One of the most effective ways to adapt to climate change on farm is to switch crop varieties. This technological change depends on policies and institutions involved in governing the seed systems on which farmers rely for access to suitable seeds. Whilst the need for seed systems to adapt and become more resilient is indisputable, the question of how this is best achieved is debated. The article shows that while development policies promoted by international donors have similar objectives in the three countries, national policies and the seed systems farmers use differ substantially.