A Century of Seed Innovation: The Opening Day of the World Seed Congress in Netherlands
By Chemtai Kirui|phillykirui@gmail.com
Rotterdam, 27 May 2024 – The profound impact of climate change, causing havoc across the globe, has prompted renewed calls for stakeholders in the seed industry to urgently re-evaluate their efforts in developing climate-resilient seed system—a crucial factor for achieving long-term food security in the face of extreme weather patterns.
This conversation is taking place at the historical World Seed Congress in Rotterdam, Netherlands, from May 27-29, 2024, commemorating 100 years since the inception of the International Seed Federation (ISF) — a non-governmental organization representing the global seed industry.
The meeting, which is taking place at the city’s Ahoy venue, is an annual event where seed industry stakeholders converge to negotiate trade agreements, discuss research and technology developments, share knowledge and network.
This centennial event under the theme, ‘Navigating into the next century,’ has attracted around 1,800 delegates.
During the opening address of the congress, most delegates, while acknowledging the progress made over the years, expressed growing concern that climate change could severely hinder efforts to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 2, which aims to end hunger and ensure food security by 2030 if urgent actions are not taken.
They called for a measured approach to develop seed models that can withstand complex climate risks.
A Grand Opening with Royal Presence
The opening ceremony, commencing at 10:00 am Netherlands time (11:00 EAT), was a grand affair graced by the presence of King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands.
Speaking to delegates from 76 countries, the King addressed his concerns about erratic weather patterns and the profound impact of climate change on agricultural systems worldwide.
“Climate change is a major problem for farmers around the world,” he said. “Water shortages, heat waves, and salinization are forcing us to make drastic changes and the need to cut the use of pesticides becomes ever so urgent.”
King Willem-Alexander, called for innovative solutions within knowledge institutions and the seed industry to address these global challenges head-on.
Marco van Leeuwen, the President of the International Seed Federation (ISF), appreciated the efforts made by the members of ISF over the years and called for unity, saying that this global challenge necessitates that countries come together and build regional shock resilient seed and food systems in order to ensure food security.
“Whilst we are witnessing several attempts, no single country can afford to be fully self-reliant when it comes to plant breeding, or food production,” he said.
His sentiments were echoed by ISF Secretary General Michael Keller, who said that, “Now is the time to build bridges on the ground.”
Keller said that quality seeds provide climate resilience, higher yields and improved nutrition. “All of which are critical to delivering the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals for ending poverty, hunger and climate vulnerability.”
Kenyan Presence in the World Seed Congress
Kenya has been particularly affected by climate shocks; from October 2023 to the present day, the country has been experiencing El Niño-related flooding.
Since the onset of these floods, more than 17,000 acres of farmland have been destroyed.
Samuel Chepsiror, Managing Director of Kenya Seed Company, speaking to Kass Media group on the sidelines of the event, said that the World Seed Congress signifies their commitment to staying abreast of cutting-edge technologies and strategies aimed at addressing pressing challenges such as the impact of climate change facing Kenya at the moment.
He said that Kenya’s presence in this event shows the efforts the country is making to develop climate-resilient crop varieties and support smallholder farmers in adapting to environmental changes.
“It is crucial that we leverage these innovations to strengthen food production and resilience in the face of evolving climatic conditions,” Chepsiror said.
While recognizing that climate change poses a huge concern for food security in the country, David Tum, the general manager of Simlaw Seeds, said that it also serves as a wake-up call for Kenya to adopt innovative agricultural practices and technologies to improve resilience and productivity.
“Even though we pride ourselves on having good arable land, we cannot yet claim to be seed leaders on the global stage,” Tum said. “For instance, despite being ten times larger than the Netherlands, Kenya’s agricultural exports are significantly lower.”
Tum said that the impact of flooding in the country disrupts seed development and germination, plant growth, and agricultural productivity, leading to biodiversity loss. He stated that the World Seed Congress is an important venue for Kenya to measure itself against other nations and understand what can be improved.
“It is time for us as a nation to improve our agricultural practices, learn from the success stories of other countries, and apply similar strategies at home to boost food production,” Tum said.
FAO’ perspective
Beth Bechdol, Deputy Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in her address to the congress during the opening ceremony, spoke of the critical role of seed security in achieving global food security.
“Seed security is food security,” Bechdol said.
She said that in light of erratic weather patterns causing displacements and a reliance on food aid to meet immediate needs, “it is seeds that enable farmers to grow food where it is needed most, restart production, and pave the way for self-sufficiency.”
Bechdol said that access to quality seeds is a cornerstone of the FAO’s emergency agricultural assistance programs, as it helps farmers to quickly regain self-sufficiency, leading to improved yields, resilience to pests and diseases, and better nutrition.
The Food and Agriculture Organization, a specialized agency of the United Nations focused on food and agriculture issues, considers its presence at the World Seed Congress a significant step towards the UN’s mission to eliminate hunger and malnutrition by promoting food security and sustainable agricultural practices.
“FAO is proud to work alongside ISF who we consider a long standing and important partner as we look forward to the future.” Bechdol said.
The Exhibition Centers
Amidst the discussions, the exhibition hall is bustling with activity as companies present their newest innovations. It’s a lively scene, with booths showcasing a variety of products, from genetically enhanced seeds built to withstand tough weather to advanced planting technologies that improve crop yields while using resources efficiently.
One standout exhibit was from Continental Semences, featuring a selection of top-notch forage and amenity seeds. The company focuses on careful selection and production, making sure their seeds meet international quality standards. Their experimental fields help develop varieties suited to evolving environmental conditions.
Day 1 Reflections
As the first day of the World Seed Congress drew to a close, in a city with a perfect blend of modernity, history, and innovative spirit — where darkness descends at 10 pm, this summer season — the Monarch’s word echoes on.
“The seed industry sector is sowing the seed for a sustainable future,” King Willem-Alexander said. “It can be done if you keep innovating and working together.”
