Maize farmers in Singida Region have been advised to verify the authenticity of seeds before planting, with agricultural experts stressing that proper seed selection is crucial for reducing production risks and improving yields. The guidance comes as the planting season approaches and farmers prepare to commit significant money, labour and resources to their crops. Bayer East Africa has launched a four-month awareness initiative called "DEKALB Mafanikio Shambani" in collaboration with the Tanzania Official Seed Certification Institute (TOSCI) and other seed industry stakeholders. The campaign is also reaching farmers in the Lake Zone and Morogoro Region.
According to Bayer Life Science Tanzania Sales Supervisor Edilitruda Temba, access to appropriate seed and reliable agricultural information is essential for smallholder farmers whose livelihoods depend on crop performance. A key part of the campaign teaches farmers how to verify seed authenticity using TOSCI electronic verification stickers on seed packages. Farmers can scratch the sticker to reveal a unique code, dial 14852# on their mobile phones and follow instructions to verify the seed before purchase.
Beyond authenticity, the campaign emphasises selecting maize varieties suited to local growing conditions. Bayer covers five DEKALB maize hybrids designed to address different farming needs, including areas with lower rainfall and crop disease challenges. Farmers are encouraged to consider local rainfall patterns, soil conditions and agronomic practices when choosing varieties, as seeds performing well in one location may not deliver similar results elsewhere.
Tanzania's Government targets average maize yields of six tonnes per hectare by 2030 under its Agenda 10/30 roadmap, up from a baseline of 1.75 tonnes per hectare. The campaign also features a consumer promotion offering prizes including sprayers, smartphones, motorbikes and planters for farmers who purchase genuine DEKALB seed and complete verification.