National Dialogue on Seed Biodiversity, Food Security and Plant Breeders Rights Bill

Poverty Reduction (CSPR), in collaboration with CUTS International Lusaka, Hivos, and Kasisi Agricultural Training Centre, convened a two-day National Dialogue on Seed Biodiversity, food Security and Plant Breeders Right Bill from June 12^th to 13^th 2025 under the theme “Towards an Inclusive and Innovative Seed System for Zambia.” The dialogue focused on seed biodiversity, food security, and the proposed Plant Breeders’ Rights Bill.

Officiating the event on behalf of the Ministry of Agriculture, Dr. Nathan Phiri reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering innovation in agriculture while protecting farmers’ rights. He explained that the Bill aims to:

      Safeguard farmers’ rights to save, use, exchange, and sell seeds;

      Promote fair benefit-sharing where indigenous seed varieties are used;

      Support biodiversity conservation; and

      Strengthen informal seed systems, which are vital to rural livelihoods.

Dr. Phiri acknowledged that the Bill is still in its early stages and promised that a national consultation roadmap will be developed and shared with stakeholders.

CSPR Executive Director Ms. Isabel Mukelabai, in her opening remarks, emphasized the need for a seed system that reflects the realities of both scientific research and traditional farming. “We must build consensus and deepen our understanding to ensure our seed systems work for everyone from researchers in laboratories to farmers planting maize or millet amid climate change,” she stated.

The event attracted a diverse group of participants, including FIAN Zambia, Members of Parliament, civil society organizations, development partners, media, Urban Futures youth from Chongwe, and farmers’ groups. Together, they explored ways to strengthen seed policies that uphold farmers’ rights, promote ecological sustainability, and enhance food sovereignty.

The dialogue served as a vital platform for advancing seed sovereignty, food security, and sustainable agricultural practices in Zambia. Stakeholders reaffirmed their shared goal of creating a resilient and equitable seed system rooted in the rights and knowledge of farmers while embracing innovation and biodiversity.