Challenges and opportunities in the okra (Abelmoschus spp) seed system in Benin

Jelila S. Blalogoe^1,2*Aglinglo Amavi Lys¹Mathieu A. T. Ayenan^1*Sognigbe N’Danikou³Roland Schafleitner⁴Enoch G. Achigan-Dako^2*

• ¹World Vegetable Center (Benin), Cotonou, Benin
• ²Genetics, Biotechnology and Seed Science Unit, Laboratory of Crop Production, Physiology and Plant Breeding, Faculty of Agronomic Sciences, University of Abomey-Calavi, Abomey-Calavi, Benin
• ³AVRDC - The World Vegetable Center, Arusha, Tanzania
• ⁴World Vegetable Center, Shanhua, Tainan County, Taiwan

Well-functioning seed systems are essential for the dissemination and use of improved crop varieties and for boosting agricultural production. Understanding the functioning of seed systems is a first step in designing tailor-made interventions. This study aimed at analyzing okra seed systems in the Republic of Benin, focusing on seed production, distribution, and the constraints affecting the okra seed sector. A total of 296 okra growers, 79 seed producers, and 34 seed distributors were interviewed using questionnaires. F armers’ and formal (regulated) seed systems supplied 90.1% and 9.9% of the okra seed, respectively. Respondents reported a wide range of varieties, with 18 (including hybrids and OPVs) in the regulated system and 11 OPVs in the farmers’ seed system. Although farmers were satisfied with the germination rate and other seed quality parameters from the regulated system, high seed cost was reported as a major constraint. Critical barriers to the use of high-quality okra seed included lack of information on seed quality, limited accessibility due to long distances to certified seed points of sale, price disparities between imported and local seeds, and low farmer awareness of the performance of improved varieties. To address these challenges, we recommend establishing village-based agro-dealer networks and decentralized seed hubs to improve last-mile seed delivery in underserved areas. Complementary interventions such as on-farm demonstration trials, participatory varietal evaluation, and flexible certification models are also proposed to promote farmer awareness, affordability, and seed system inclusivity. While this study focuses on okra seed systems in Benin, the structural challenges identified common to many vegetable seed systems in West Africa offer valuable insights for designing contextually relevant interventions across the region.