Tanzania: Tosci develops standards for tree seeds

THE Tanzania Official Seed Certification Institute (TOSCI) has developed a Draft Seed Certification Standards for different tree crops in a move aimed to improve performance of the agriculture sector in the country. The tree crops involve are avocado, coffee, tea, cashew, oil palm, grapes, orange, mangoes, pawpaw, apple and banana. Speaking during an interview with the Daily News, TOSCI Director General (DG), Patrick Ngwediagi said the developed Draft Seed Certification Standards will first be discussed by the seed stakeholders. "In mid this month, key stakeholders in the county's seed industry are expecting to convene to, among other things, discuss the developed tree crops seed/seedlings certification standards draft," he unveiled. He added that after being confirmed by the stakeholders and agro experts, the standards will be submitted to the Ministry of Agriculture for final blessings and approval. "This will ensure farmers engaging in the cultivation of tree crops in various ...