Project Snapshot: DFCD and Starke Ayres

This disclosure notice summarises SNV’s support to Starke Ayres Zambia Limited, an established vegetable seed company working to strengthen climate-resilient food systems through the development of African Indigenous Vegetable (AIV) seed value chains in Zambia. Building on more than a century of experience within the wider Starke Ayres group and an established regional distribution network, the company aims to improve access to high-quality seeds for locally adapted crops such as amaranthus, African eggplant, pumpkin leaves, and cassava leaves. By developing commercially viable seed systems for these underutilised crops, Starke Ayres seeks to contribute to improved food security, farmer resilience, and agricultural biodiversity.

Operating in a context of increasing climate variability, drought, and pressure on agricultural productivity, the project focuses on strengthening seed production systems, validating market demand, and supporting farmer adoption of nutritious and climate-resilient crops. The initiative combines seed development, farmer trials, market development, and stakeholder engagement to build a more inclusive and sustainable value chain. Particular attention will be given to ensuring opportunities are accessible to smallholder farmers, women, and youth, while strengthening environmental, social, governance, and gender equality and social inclusion (GESI) practices.

The project is supported by a €107,000 grant from the DFCD Origination Facility, with an anticipated €2.5 million in leveraged debt financing. By strengthening African Indigenous Vegetable seed systems and preparing the business for scale, the project aims to improve food and nutrition security, increase climate resilience and livelihoods for smallholder farmers, and promote the conservation and sustainable use of locally adapted crop varieties in Zambia.