Empowering local grain traders to drive seed system change: Lessons from Mohamed Hassan Matimba, a trader in Nanyumbu District, Mtwara, Tanzania

Groundnut farmers in Nanyumbu District, Tanzania, have long faced low productivity due to limited access to quality seed, reliance on recycled and outdated varieties, and weak links to markets. The ACCELERATE Project is addressing these challenges by turning trusted local grain traders into seed entrepreneurs who can connect farmers with improved varieties and markets. A key example is Mohamed Hassan Matimba, a groundnut trader who, with support from ACCELERATE, TARI and other partners, began producing and distributing improved seed, particularly Tanzanut 2016. The variety has been embraced for its yield potential, drought tolerance and resistance to rosette virus. Matimba now works with around 150 farmers, supports farmer training and is building linkages with seed companies to expand local seed availability. The approach links market demand directly to seed production. As demand for preferred groundnuts grows, Matimba and seed-sector partners can plan the quantity of seed required to meet future grain markets. This demand-led model is helping strengthen the seed and grain value chain while improving farmers' access to improved varieties, productivity and market opportunities