The availability of, and access to, high quality seed is an important factor controlling agricultural productivity. In Iraq, like other dryland countries, quality seed maintains rural livelihoods and ensures food and nutritional security.
Through the HSAD initiative, ICARDA has initiated collaborations with Iraq’s national wheat program to multiply the seed of six varieties registered by the Ministry of Agriculture: HSAD, Azmar, Maaroof, Alaa, Shah
Ineffective seed legislation and strategies are perceived as one of the most significant barriers to improving food security and agricultural production in Iraq.
Improved varieties of wheat, a key strategic crop, have been planted across Iraq since the HSAD project was implemented late last year, an effort to demonstrate their effectiveness and promote their dissemination to farmers.
