ZRP, SEEDCO To Curb Counterfeit Maize Seed
As the 2020-2021 Agricultural season begins the Zimbabwe Republic Police has noted an increase in fake and counterfeit maize seed being sold to unsuspecting farmers through informal markets in various parts of the country.
In a press statement recently held in Harare the Zimbabwe Republic Police Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyati, said ” counterfeit maize seed is being sold at illegal outlets and open spaces at prices which are lower than the original seed found in established outlets. The major areas which these counterfeit maize seeds are been sold are Mbare musika, Sakubva musika and Northon.”
The Zimbabwe Republic Police and SEEDCO have entered into a joint operation to curb the increasing number of counterfeit maize seed being sold. “Police and Seedco officials will work together to identify fake seed and farmers are implored to cooperate as they plan for the 2020-2021 agricultural season,” Paul Nyathi said
As the country is facing a number of economic challenges amid the Covid-19 pandemic this has pushed many people to opt for cheaper alternatives which include putting SEEDCO brand on their fake seeds. Seed Co Head of Public Relations and Communications Marjorie Mutemererwa noted that most of these people selling fake seeds target large companies and use their brands. “As the leading seed company we will not allow our farmers to be duped and we will protect their return on investments by continuing to work with the law enforcement agents” Mutemererwa added
The Zimbabwe Republic Place Assistant Commissioner Nyati further stated that they will enforce provisions of Seed Act Chapter 19:13 making sure that the law takes its course on anyone caught selling fake maize seeds. For this enforcement to be a success the public is also urged to report to nearest police stations of any suspects who are selling fake seeds so as to strengthen the agricultural sector as well as the country’s economy.