Seed Policies Support Farmers in Somaliland and Puntland to Preserve the Agro-biodiversity and Build Climate Resilient Livelihoods

For many years, farmers in Somaliland and Puntland have struggled with the consequences of an unregulated and fragmented seed sector. Without a national seed policy and regulatory framework no mechanism has been in place to guarantee seed quality and protect local genetic resources. The uncontrolled importation and spread of low-quality commercial seeds coupled with the gradual disappearance of indigenous seed varieties has weakened agricultural productivity and increased vulnerability to climate shocks.

To address this the Development Fund of Norway (DF), working with its local partners, ADO in Somaliland and KAALO in Puntland, and funded by the UK’s Darwin Initiative, facilitated the development of seed policy and regulation in both regions. The initiative engaged the Ministries of Agriculture in both regions and placed community voices at the centre of policymaking. The Somaliland and Puntland seed policies are currently with their respective cabinets awaiting final approval.

To reach this point a series of multi-level dialogue sessions were held across villages, districts, regional hubs, and national platforms. Farmers, women’s groups, seed producers, members of parliament, civil society organisations and private-sector actors all contributed their perspectives. This participatory process ensured that the emerging policy reflected the priorities of those who would benefit from and implement it and this inclusive approach was instrumental in drafting a policy framework that reflects shared ownership and long-term national priorities.

During a consultation held in October 2024, a farmer from Burao district of Somaliland expressed the shift in ownership and inclusion: “For the first time, we feel our opinions guide the rules that affect our seeds.” In a similar vein, a representative of the Ministry of Agriculture in Somaliland. Stated: “These policies belong to the farmers as much as to the government.”

The policies introduce reforms that will strengthening the seed systems in both regions and in doing so build long-term agricultural resilience. They address the importation of low quality and genetically modified seeds, offer protections for indigenous and locally adapted crop varieties, increase access to climate resilient seeds and bring about stronger national seed certification and quality control systems

All aimed at contributing to sustainable higher crop yields, improved household nutrition, stronger incomes and greater resilience to climate stressors.

Looking ahead, Somaliland and Puntland aim to advance the policies through cabinet approval, implementation, and institutional strengthening. Continued capacity development, awareness campaigns and support for seed producers will be essential for operationalising the new frameworks. Farmers, policy makers and civil society representatives also aspire to expand research on indigenous and climate-resilient varieties, promote quality seed production, and build regulated seed markets that support national food security.