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Seed Co, one of Africa’s leading seed producers, is proudly celebrating its 85th anniversary, marking a journey defined by growth, innovation, and unwavering commitment to agricultural transformation across the continent.
Launched under the banner “Keep Growing,” the anniversary campaign recognises the company’s long-standing partnership with farmers, employees, and communities that have helped build a legacy of excellence spanning more than eight decades.
In his message to commemorate the milestone, Group Chief Executive Morgan Nzwere paid tribute to all stakeholders who have contributed to Seed Co’s success story.
“This year, we are proudly celebrating 85 years of growth, innovation, and success as the Seed Co family,” said Nzwere. “It’s a milestone that reflects the hard work, dedication, and passion of everyone across our value chain — from employees and farmers to partners and communities. Together, we’ve sown seeds of change, reaped the benefits of hard work, and cultivated a legacy of excellence.”
He added that from humble beginnings in a single market, Seed Co has expanded its footprint to now produce seed and service farmers in over 23 African countries, remaining a symbol of Pan-African excellence with local impact.
Celebrating Through Impact and Innovation
To commemorate this milestone, Seed Co has rolled out a series of community-based and empowerment initiatives designed to deepen its relationship with farmers and strengthen the agricultural ecosystem.
Among these is the Lead Farmer Model, a nationwide initiative aimed at training and supporting small-scale and emergent farmers. The model focuses on improving crop productivity, resilience, and agronomic best practices — ensuring that knowledge and innovation reach even the most remote farming communities.
The company has also launched a scholarship programme to support students pursuing higher education in agricultural fields, nurturing the next generation of scientists, breeders, and agronomists who will continue Seed Co’s legacy of innovation.
As part of its community engagement strategy, Seed Co has increased sponsorship of major events such as the Women in Agribusiness Conference, which champions the inclusion and empowerment of women in the agricultural sector. Regionally, the company has continued to celebrate cultural partnerships, including sponsoring the Ukusefya pa Ngwena ceremony in Zambia, a gesture that underscores its long-standing relationship with farming communities.
“Our success is rooted in the people we serve,” said Nzwere. “As we celebrate 85 years, we reaffirm our commitment to working hand in hand with farmers, governments, and partners to ensure sustainable agricultural growth across Africa.”
A Legacy of Quality and Research
Seed Co’s reputation has been built on scientific research and innovation. Over the decades, the company has developed a robust portfolio of high-yielding hybrid seed varieties bred specifically for African climates and conditions. Its product range spans maize, wheat, soya beans, and vegetables, all designed to deliver high yields and superior resilience.
Through ongoing investment in research and development, Seed Co continues to pioneer climate-smart and drought-tolerant varieties that help farmers adapt to the challenges of climate change. The company’s slogan, “It Starts With The Right Seed,” captures this philosophy and remains central to its marketing and engagement across all platforms.
Empowering Farmers Through Competitions and Mechanisation
Seed Co’s commitment to rewarding excellence in farming was once again demonstrated through the Seed Co National Crop Farming Competition, a platform that celebrates outstanding farmers across Zimbabwe.
This year’s national winner, Melusi Musindo of Mabhande Village, Ward 14 in Gokwe South, walked away with a $26,000 tractor. Speaking after receiving his prize, Musindo commended Seed Co for its continued support to rural farmers.
“This tractor will assist many local farmers in ploughing and planting on time. I want to thank Seed Co for empowering rural farmers like us and for recognizing our hard work,” he said.
Seed Co Agronomist Modekai Chinembiri noted that the competition — which will continue in the 2025/26 farming season — plays a vital role in promoting agricultural excellence and inspiring competitiveness among farmers.
“We want to continue encouraging innovation and productivity in farming through such contests,” Chinembiri said.
Farmers can enter the competition by purchasing at least 10 kilograms of Seed Co maize seed and registering at their local AGRITEX offices, with prizes including tractors, threshers, and other modern farming equipment.
Supporting National Food Security Goals
The celebrations come as Zimbabwe targets a strong 2025/26 agricultural season, with the Government planning to plant 1.8 million hectares of maize and 500,000 hectares of traditional grains, targeting a combined output of 3.2 million tonnes — enough to ensure national food self-sufficiency.
The ongoing Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme, which has seen over 450,000 farmers prepare more than 1.3 million plots, continues to complement Seed Co’s efforts to boost productivity and resilience among smallholder farmers.
In addition, the Government’s drive to supply smaller tractors (55 horsepower or less) to each of the country’s 35,000 villages aligns with Seed Co’s vision of a mechanised and modernised smallholder farming sector capable of sustaining productivity despite climatic challenges.
Looking Ahead
As Seed Co marks this historic 85-year milestone, the company is not only celebrating its past but also setting its sights on the future — one defined by research-driven innovation, youth empowerment, and sustainable agriculture.
“Our journey has always been about partnership and progress,” said Nzwere. “As we look ahead, we will continue investing in people, technology, and ideas that keep African agriculture growing stronger, smarter, and more sustainable.”
With the spirit of “Keep Growing,” Seed Co’s 85th anniversary is both a celebration of legacy and a renewed commitment to shaping the future of African farming — one seed at a time.
