Robust seed systems, emerging technologies, and hybrid crops for Africa

• Hybrid crops are underutilized in sub-Saharan Africa.
• Formal seed systems will improve farmer access to improved hybrid seed.
• Market access will increase prosperity for subsistence farmers.
• Engagement is needed from governments and private industry within Africa.
• Technological advancements will enable more efficient production of quality hybrids.

Hybrid crops are underutilized in many developing countries. Subsistence farmers in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) rely predominantly on outdated hybrids and open-pollinated varieties, which has limited the region's ability to achieve food security and agricultural sustainability goals. Key challenges in SSA include lack of access to improved hybrid seed, insufficient infrastructure to support a formal seed system, and limited smallholder farmer access to input and output markets. Implementing improved seed systems and creating greater market access will require engagement from the public and private sector and the governments within Africa. This paper reviews the importance of hybrids in agriculture, the challenges associated with creating new hybrids, and the technological advancements that will enable more efficient production of quality hybrids in Africa.