Abstract:
Maize farm-saved seeds are characterized by low quality which generally is influenced by
managerial practices used by farmers during saving process. A study was conducted to assess
farmers’ knowledge and awareness on proper management of maize farm-saved seeds in the
Lake Zone of Tanzania. A survey across six regions in the zone was conducted during the
2021/22 cropping season at peak maize planting time. Mixed sampling techniques (multi-stage
and purposive sampling) were deployed, whereby 96 farmers who save maize seeds were
consulted with an interview using a semi-structured questionnaire to collect information on
maize farm-saved seed management practices. Results revealed that 79.2% of farmers obtained
seeds from their own saved seeds (own stock). More than 50% of recycled seeds were improved
varieties. Above half of farmers were not aware about varieties contamination through crosspollination and mechanical admixture. A minority dry their seeds using inappropriate drying
materials. About 37.5% of sampled farmers did not clean their seeds after shelling, and 53.1%
store seeds and grains in the same store. The majority are knowledgeable and aware about proper
packaging materials. Generally, the majority of farmers managed their farm-saved seeds in
improper ways. Therefore, there is a need to improve farmers’ seed management practices so as
to improve seed quality or to increase availability and accessibility of seeds from formal system.
More research is recommended on maize farm-saved seeds management.
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