Organization and constraints of improved seeds marketing of millet and cowpea in western Niger

Abstract

In Niger, the supply of declared quality seed remains a major challenge for farmers who mostly use traditional varieties despite their purity problem. Recently, there has been a mobilization of actors around the improved seeds sector. This paper analyzes the organization and constraints of marketing certified improved seeds of millet and cowpea. The data was collected among 57 seed producers, 2 farmers' organizations, 4 sales’ point/input shops and a seed company. These actors were sampled systematically, data were collected through a questionnaire survey and the analysis was undertaken by using sector approache. The results show that the seeds producers, their organization, the seed company, the collectors/distributors, the retail outlets/shops, the state/ partners and the user producers are the direct actors in the marketing circuit of improved seeds. The characteristics of the demand for these strategic inputs are difficult to establish in this area. However, most of producers’ seeds is purchased by the seed companies and the State and its partners. There is no proper coordination in the formation of seeds prices. But, it is strongly influenced by a production contract that links the private to producer’s seeds. The marketing meets many technical constraints of production and constraints of markets/financial. To ensure the sustainability of the certified improved seeds sector and its contribution to food security and poverty reduction, actions are needed in the characterization of demand, pricing and appropriate marketing strategies. Thus, estimating demand and setting sales prices before the start of the agricultural season allows for market-oriented seed production. Information and small-volume sales in villages can help market seeds.

Keywords: Marketing, Market Economy, Niger, Sector, Improved seed