News & Articles
Verified current information from the Region and beyond
Seeds of Balance: Why Africa Needs Both Informal and Formal Seed Systems
Across Africa, farming begins with a seed, but the future of agriculture depends on how that seed is sustained and shared. While modern, formal seed systems offer improved varieties and scientific innovation, informal farmer-managed systems remain the foundation of resilience, biodiversity, and cultural heritage. Rather than viewing them as competing models, Africa’s path to food sovereignty lies in integrating both approaches. By strengthening collaboration between traditional knowledge and modern research, the continent can secure productivity, protect its agricultural identity, and build a more resilient food system.
Unlocking Kenya’s Sugarcane Potential
From sweetener to sustainable energy ; exploring the future of sugarcane in Western Kenya. Kenya’s sugar sector faces persistent production shortfalls, with 2024/25 output of about 810,000 tonnes falling well below national demand of over 1.25 million tonnes, and forecasts pointing to further decline. However, the sector’s true potential lies beyond sugar production alone. By-products such as bagasse, molasses, and filter cake can generate electricity, produce ethanol, and restore soil fertility, respectively, supporting a circular green economy. With an estimated 300 MW cogeneration potential from bagasse, Kenya could diversify revenue streams, reduce fuel imports, and strengthen energy security. Unlocking greater value from every stalk of cane is therefore key to transforming the industry into a sustainable and resilient economic driver.