How support for farmer-managed seed systems paves the way towards resilient and diverse food systems in Africa.

OXFAM POLICY BRIEF – INAUGURAL AFRICAN SEED SUMMIT 2026

The launch of the African Union (AU) Policy Framework on Farmer-Managed Seed Systems (FMSS) and the formal recognition of the critical role that farmers’ seed systems play in sustainable and diverse food production marks a fundamental transition towards more resilient, secure, and sovereign food systems in Africa. Farmer-managed seed systems provide 80–90% of the seeds planted across Africa, yet receive less than 0.5% of investment in agricultural innovation. This Oxfam policy brief, prepared for the African Union’s Inaugural Africa Seed Summit, shows how supporting them advances food security, agrobiodiversity, climate resilience and seed sovereignty, and sets out the measures governments can take.

This policy brief provides a concise summary of how support for farmer-managed seed systems can contribute to national policy goals and relevant international obligations, including the SDGs, ITPGRFA, GBF, UNDROP, CBD, and Kampala CAADP Declaration. It outlines key safeguards to contribute to the fulfilment of Farmers’ Rights (ITPGRFA Article 9) and recommendations to policymakers for their support, put forward by the Community of Practice for Farmer-Managed Seed Systems.

View the full brief: