Blog From local seeds to lasting impact: Angel Tadie’s inspiring journey into seed production
Angle Tadie transformed her farming after mentorship from a retired IRAD researcher, shifting from local to improved seeds. Yields tripled, enabling her to become a seed producer, mentor, and role model, empowering other women farmers. Here, she shares her story in her own words.
When I reflect on where I began, I see a remarkable transformation. My farming journey started with local seeds bought from the market, yielding about 600kg per hectare: a level I had always believed was normal. It was the system I grew up with: “plant, wait, and hope for the best”.
Everything changed when I met Mr Fofe Lucas, a retired researcher from the Institute of Agricultural Research for Development (IRAD), Foumbot and an experienced seed producer. Despite his retirement, he remained actively involved in seed production and mentoring farmers. He showed me the practical importance of using quality-improved seed, a concept I had not fully grasped.
Motivated by this guidance, I purchased about 70kg of Mex 142, GLP 190, and DOR 701 improved bean seed and planted them on one hectare of land. The results were remarkable. The improved varieties far outperformed local seeds, emphasizing the importance of quality seed and proper agronomic practices.
Mr Fofe Lucas continued mentoring me in seed production principles and introduced me to key initiatives, including the Building Equitable Climate-Resilient African Bean and Insect Sectors (BRAINs) project, Inclusive Seed Delivery under the CGIAR Breeding for Tomorrow science program, and the African Development Bank's (AfDB) Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT) high-iron beans flagship project. Through these platforms, I received structured training in improved production techniques, seed quality management, and the business aspects of seed production.
Through the IRAD/Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT partnership, I joined a Multi-Stakeholder Platform (MSP). Engagement in this platform, along with knowledge-sharing WhatsApp groups, provided me with continual access to technical guidance, peer learning, and sector updates.
My progress resulted in my being chosen as a focal farmer during an exchange visit involving women farmers from the West and Northwest regions. Participants visited my farm to learn from my experience in both grain and seed bean production, establishing me as a role model and local resource.
My yields increased from 600kg per hectare with local seed to 1,800kg per hectare with the improved variety Mex 142: a 200% rise. This experience demonstrated that farming could go beyond subsistence towards greater productivity, empowerment, and sustainable growth.
Encouraged by these results, I shared my ambition with Mr Fofe: I wanted to become a seed producer, not only for my farm but also to supply high-quality seed to other farmers, especially women, helping them to boost productivity. He agreed to mentor me on the condition that I dedicate land to seed production and adhere to recommended technical guidelines.
Access to land was initially a major challenge, but after two years of effort, I acquired five hectares in 2023 (three uplands and two lowlands), suitable for diversified production and seed multiplication.
Today, my farm produces both bean seeds and grains, maize (both seeds and grains), tomatoes, and plantains, selected for commercial value, profitability, and household food security. Challenges remain, including labor shortages, high certification costs, strict field management, and market fluctuations. To overcome these, I have focused on building strong market relationships and enhancing marketing strategies.
Despite these challenges, the benefits are clear. I now use my own quality seed, which improves farm performance, secures household food, and generates income. Beyond material gains, this journey has boosted my confidence, given me a sense of purpose, and earned me recognition as a role model for other women farmers.
To women who aspire to begin their own journey, I say: Begin now; don't wait for the perfect moment, as it will never come. Dream big because farming is not a small task; it involves entrepreneurship, science, and leadership. Be persistent because challenges are inevitable, but consistency brings results.
Every seed, nurtured with knowledge, dedication, and proper practices, has the potential to change a life, just as it changed mine.
