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Seed Co well positioned to weather Zim economy fragility

Agriculture
SEED firm, Seed Co Limited

SEED firm, Seed Co Limited (SCL) is well positioned to weather Zimbabwe’s tough macroeconomic climate, with the country’s largest seed producer holding more than three times the short-term assets needed to cover its liabilities.

In its annual report for the period ended March 31, 2025, SCL revealed that it ended the period having US$3,27 to every dollar of short-term debt showing it had enough liquidity to expand operations.

This comes despite the El Niño-induced drought experienced in the 2024/25 agricultural season as it greatly reduced crop output.

The growth in its liquidity position was owing to its trade receivables jumping to US$45,65 million, from a prior year comparative of US$28,45 million.

“The business remains well-positioned to navigate a challenging macroeconomic environment marked by currency depreciation, inflationary pressures, the ongoing impacts of climate change and the regulatory shifts,” Seed Co Group (SCG) chief executive officer Morgan Nzwere said in a statement attached to its annual report ended March 31, 2025.

“Leveraging its proprietary seed technology, adapted for diverse climatic conditions and a trusted brand cultivated over 85 years, the group is set to capitalise on emerging opportunities across its markets.”

SCL is the major seed provider for Zimbabwe’s farmers, as it runs the largest single out-grower scheme in Africa in the seed business and has one of the most extensive networks of farmers, infrastructure, resources, geographical reach and know-how.

The group specialises in the breeding, multiplication, and distribution of high-performing hybrid maize and vegetable seeds, as well as open-pollinated varieties of key cereal and legume crops.

These include soybeans, sorghum, wheat, beans, sugar beans, cowpeas, groundnuts and a wide range of vegetables — supporting farmers with quality seeds tailored to Africa’s diverse agricultural needs.

SCL is one of two subsidiaries under the Seed Co Group that operates the group’s operations in Zimbabwe.

The other subsidiary, Seed Co International Limited, operates outside Zimbabwe, in Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya, Mozambique, Botswana and Nigeria, with a footprint in other African nations.

“Our dynamic research and development pipeline are the backbone of our business, driving the creation of valuable intellectual property and supporting our ESG [environmental, social and governance]-led innovation strategy.

“By delivering pioneering solutions, we strive to foster a sustainable and profitable agricultural sector that is resilient to climate change and capable of ensuring food security for both people and livestock,” Nzwere said.

“Our holistic approach integrates advanced seed genetics with agronomic training and support, equipping farmers to maximise yields and use resources efficiently.

“We remain committed to improving profitability across both smallholder and commercial farming operations, while reinforcing critical agricultural value chains.”

He said SCL aimed to release a minimum of five new or improved maize hybrids annually, alongside at least one upgraded variety from other crop segments.

“Key growth drivers include rising focus on food security, exchange rate stability and better rainfall prospects,” Nzwere said.

“Operational resilience is further supported by demand-driven and weather-informed seed production and growing direct cash sales through our own retail outlets.

“Overall, the group remains confident in its ability to deliver sustainable growth and value creation through disciplined execution, market responsiveness, and continued investment in innovation and regional integration.”

Seed Co Group chairman Pearson Gowero said SCL remained committed to serving farmers.

“Despite erratic rains, product availability remained adequate, and we remain committed to serving our farmers with high quality and high-yielding seed solutions,” he said.

“Data-driven market insights guided product placement strategies, aligning supply with evolving farmer needs.”

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