*2.1.3 Semi-formal seed system:*

Semi-formal seed system has overlapping features with both the formal and informal seed systems. The major actors in this system are groups (of farmers) engaged in community-based seed production and marketing. Seed producers do not necessarily go through formal channels to get planting materials or through the formal certification process. The intermediary seed system also includes the production and marketing of seed by local farmers under financial and technical support from NGOs and breeding centres. Seed potato producers in the semi-formal system produce two different types of seed: (1) clean seed and (2) positively selected seed.

1.Clean Seed or QDS: This comprises seed multiplied at the farm level which originates from certified seed. It is produced using Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs). Most guidelines used in production of certified seed are also used in clean seed production. However, sampling, testing and certification by the

regulator are omitted or where involved, less rigorous as for the case of QDS. Quality declared seed is officially recognized in Uganda and Rwanda by law and can be legally sold through formal market channels but for localized areas only.

2.Positively Selected Seed: These are seed potatoes produced from farmer seed through a process of selecting the best-looking plants during vegetative growth by farmers trained in seed selection and management. Although the process of production lacks stringent procedure and inspection by the regulator it offers an opportunity for farmers to control diseases and improve their yields by an average of 30% per season.
