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Abstract
In Mali, liberalization of seed markets for sorghum and millet, the staple food crops, has not advanced at
the same rate or with the same measurable success as liberalization of grain markets. Most seed of these
crops is uncertified and continues to be supplied to farmers by farmers, according to clan and ethno-linguistic
group. After poor harvests or when replanting after a dry spell, farmers rely on local markets
for grain as sources of seed. This paper summarizes the findings of a vendor survey conducted in two
marketsheds during weekly fairs. No certified seed is sold. Almost all vendors are women who are also
farmers. Variety integrity is maintained particularly for millet seed in the marketshed of the Sahelian
zone, where the range of variety adaptation is very limited. Grain that is suitable for seed is brought to
market directly from granaries. Varieties are identified by their provenance. Socially prescribed behavior
is apparent in price-fixing, price discounts, procurement practices, and the spatial organization of vendors.
Preliminary hypotheses are tested with a simple regression. Marketshed, which is highly correlated with
the ethnic composition of the population, agro-ecology, market infrastructure and crop sold, has a
dominant impact on quantities sold. Quantities sold do not respond to expected prices. Greater
specialization of the vendor in trade as compared to farming, younger age, and additional years in school
positively influence amounts sold. A better comprehension of this type of trade could contribute to
policies that improve the access of poor farmers to valuable crop genetic resources, enhancing their seed
security and productivity.