SeedCo unveils Climate-Smart varieties

 


SeedCo unveils Climate-Smart varieties to bolster National Food Security

By Allan Mbotshwa

​Rattray Arnold Research Station, 11 March 2026 – Seedco Zimbabwe has officially launched two groundbreaking seed varieties—SC449 maize and SC W9104 wheat—marking a significant leap forward in the nation’s drive toward climate resilience and food self-sufficiency.

​The launch, held during the National Field Day, was officiated by the Permanent Secretary for Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development, Dr. Obert Jiri.

In his keynote address, Dr. Jiri commended SeedCo’s innovation, noting that these varieties are "durable in the face of climate-induced weather patterns" and will play a pivotal role in securing the country's food resources.

​The new varieties specifically address the growing threat of rust diseases, which have increasingly hampered crop yields across Zimbabwe.

SC449 Maize: An early-maturing hybrid designed for high yields and robust resistance to foliar diseases.

Its short growth cycle allows farmers to harvest before the peak of mid-season dry spells.

SC W9104 Wheat: A "blockbuster" variety bred to mitigate the impact of stripe (yellow) rust.
Notably, this variety produces a pure white flour, a significant upgrade from the off-white flour previously common in the market, meeting the high standards of the milling and baking industries.

​Seed Co’s impact extends far beyond Zimbabwe’s borders. Currently operating in Mozambique, Malawi, and Zambia, the company has established a presence in 21 other countries, cementing its status as a leader in African agricultural research.

​Group Agronomist Wendy Madzura highlighted that these seeds are expected to be available in retail stores later this year.

To increase accessibility, SeedCo has also integrated online shopping platforms, allowing farmers to procure certified seeds with ease.

​The launch comes at a critical time as the government and private sector collaborate to reach a winter wheat target of 662,500 metric tonnes.

With preparations at an advanced stage, these new genetics are set to be a cornerstone of this season’s success, ensuring that Zimbabwe remains on a sustainable path to prosperity.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

GBAZ National Showcase & Sale 2025 - All you need to know

Image
  GBAZ National Showcase & Sale 2025 - All you need to know By Allan Mbotshwa  ​The Goat Breeders Association of Zimbabwe (GBAZ) is set to host a premier livestock event, the National Goat Showcase & Sale 2025, at the Grand Palm Lodge in Bulawayo on October 24, 2025. Originally planned as an auction, the event has been converted to a dynamic Showcase & Sale, offering an unparalleled platform for the nation's goat industry. The focus is squarely on “Preserving our Indigenous Goats—Understanding the Matebele & Mashona Breed Standards.” ​The day is packed with value, starting with a Keynote Address (9 AM-5 PM session) from Mr. Kenneth Chitando, the Managing Director of AFC Commercial Bank.  His expertise in project finance, marketing, and enterprise development is crucial for breeders looking to scale their operations and elevate the goat industry to a serious commercial venture.  The guest of honour for the event will be His Worship, the Mayor of Bulawa...
Read more

The Phone Guru of Harare

Image
  The Phone Guru of Harare: New Century Technology Are you tired of overpriced, low-quality cellphones? Look no further!New Century Technology, the renowned tech expert, is here to revolutionize your mobile experience. With years of experience and a passion for innovation, New Century  Technology has become the go-to destination for quality cellphones in Harare. At New Century, you'll find an impressive range of top-brand devices, from the latest iPhones to Samsung flagships and budget-friendly options. But what sets New Century Technology apart is the personalized service – each customer gets a tailored recommendation to find their perfect phone match. Get in touch: - 📞 0771162364 / 0712467477 - 📍 HYPER CITY MALL STALL 22, Corner CAMEROON St And R. MUGABE, Harare CBD - Use the first entrance next to Jet, look straight ahead, and you'll see the NEW CENTURY TECH banner - Don't forget to double-check that receipt says New Century Tech before you purchase anything!
Read more

Independent Women for Economic Development drives grassroots empowerment agenda

Image
  Independent Women for Economic Development drives grassroots empowerment agenda By Brenda Mazhambe and Anyway Mukumanhenga The affiliate, Independent Women for Economic Development (IW4ED), is emerging as a pivotal force in advancing women’s participation in Zimbabwe’s economic transformation, with a strong alignment to national development priorities and grassroots mobilisation, led by Vimbainashe Chikwature. The affiliate was formed on the 25th of November 2025, it has 16 000 members from the day of formation to date across all 10 provinces. Guided by a clear mandate, IW4ED is working to support and operationalise the national vision as espoused by the Second Republic under the leadership of His Excellency President Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa. Central to its mission is the attainment of Vision 2030, which seeks to transform Zimbabwe into an upper middle-income economy through inclusive growth and broad-based empowerment. The organisation places women at the centre of ...
Read more